r/DSLR

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for advice on upgrading my dad’s camera for Father’s Day.

He currently has a Nikon D300S and three Nikon FX/F-mount lenses. I confirmed that his lenses are FX, and he has also tried a Nikon D850 on a trip before, so I know his lenses work with that body.

I’m not looking to move him to mirrorless. I want to keep him in the Nikon DSLR/F-mount system.

The two main bodies I’m considering are the Nikon D500 and Nikon D850.

Most of what he photographs is family, especially grandkids/great-grandkids, including middle school and high school sports. He also takes pictures on hikes, nature photos, and general outdoor/travel-type stuff.
For context, I shoot Canon, so trying to understand Nikon bodies and lens logic feels a little like studying the difference between Roman and Greek gods. I know they’re related, I know some names line up, and I’m still afraid I’m going to anger the wrong one.

The D850 seems like the bigger “wow” upgrade since it’s full-frame and would use the full image circle of his FX lenses, but used D850 bodies in great condition are still pretty expensive. I’m trying to figure out whether it’s worth spending that much, or whether the D500 is actually the better fit for what he shoots.

Since he’s coming from a D300S, the D500 seems like it might be the more direct upgrade: still DX, still pro-style Nikon DSLR, but much newer and better for autofocus/action. On the other hand, since all his lenses are FX, I’m wondering if I should be considering full-frame more seriously.

For someone coming from a D300S who mostly shoots family sports, nature, hikes, and outdoor photos, would you recommend the D500 or D850?

A few specific questions:

Is the D500 the better practical upgrade for sports and nature?

Would the D850 be overkill for this kind of use?

Would using FX lenses on a D500 be totally fine, or am I missing a downside?

Are there any other Nikon DSLR bodies I should consider instead?

I’m trying to get him a meaningful Father’s Day upgrade without replacing his lenses or moving him to mirrorless. Any advice would be appreciated.

I've had the camera for over a decade and I got it for free from someone who was moving.

I know it takes special batteries and film. I think it could be a fun side hobby but I wanted to know if anybody had any experience with this specific camera!

It came with the bag, strap, filter, manual, lens tissue, a weird white squirt bottle, and a air brush. It also came with the Dealer Record of Canon Purchase but it wasn't filled out LOL.