DSLR cameras represent what is often regarded as the top digital capture technology available these days, through their complementing of the highest quality image, intuitive design, speed, and modular capabilities to suit nearly any kind of photography possible. Representing the initial step towards serious photography for several, or just extra upgrades or tools for the veteran, DSLR’s cover a wide expanse of capabilities and are intended to meet certain goals while still retaining the whole imaging benefits that are appropriate for many. Are you planning to buy a DSLR camera? Here are a few tips to buy a DSLR camera.
First, let us find out some of the reasons why you must upgrade to a DSLR.
Quality of the image- Because of the large size of image sensors in DSLR cameras which permits large pixel sizes- DSLR cameras can be utilized at a fast ISO which will lead to fast shutter speed and less grain. DSLR cameras have built-in noise-reduction while generating JPG images which helps in reducing the noise.
Adaptability- The ability of DSLR to change the lenses opens a whole world of possibilities for photographers. While the point and shoot have a nice 3xOptical Zoom, DSLR s can be properly fitted with several high-quality lenses ranging from a wide-angle to super long focal lengths based on what you are photographing. Add to this a wide range of other accessories and make the camera adaptable to different situations. It must be noted that when it comes to lenses, the diversity in lens quality is immense. The quality of the lens decides the quality of an image.
Speed- Generally, DSLR’s are fast pieces of machines when it comes to things like focusing, startup, and shutter lag.
Optical Viewfinder- Because of the reflex mirror DSLR cameras are what you see is what you receive operation.
Huge ISO range- This differs from one camera to another but usually, DSLRs provide a wide variety of ISO settings which provides better flexibility in shooting in vManual Controls- While many point and shoot cameras come an ability to click images in a manual mode, a DSLR camera is designed in such a manner that it is thought that the photographer who is using it will want to control their settings. While they come up with great auto modes the manual controls are usually developed in such a manner that they are at the fingertips of the photographer while they are clicking pictures.
Retaining Value- Some people argue that a DSLR camera will hold its value longer when compared to point and shoot. There is possibly some reality in this. DSLR cameras do not update like point and shoot cameras. The other factor why you should upgrade to the DSLR camera is that the lenses you purchase for it are compatible with other camera bodies. This means spending money on lenses is not a waste.
Depth of field- An important feature that most of the people like about DSLR camera is its versatility, mainly depth of field. It is an extension of its manual control and an ability to use different lenses but a DSLR can offer you a depth of field that puts everything in focus including blurry backgrounds.
Quality Optics- There is a huge difference in quality between DSLR lenses and the general lenses you will find in point and shoot cameras. DSLR lenses are larger and most of them take long hours in manufacturing them. If you are looking for the best DSLR camera for beginners, then buy one that comes with high-quality lenses.
Tips to buy a DSLR Camera
So, how to choose a DSLR camera? There are wide varieties of them in the market, so you have plenty of choices in front of you. Here is a DSLR buying guide for beginners.
Cost- A good point to start with while planning to buy a DSLR camera is its price. The price range of DSLR varies from a lower end to extremely high prices. Fix a budget for your purchase early on but you must consider other costs also of owning a DSLR including:
- Lenses
- Batteries
- Camera Bag
- Memory cards
- Extended warranties
- Filters
Purpose- When you visit a camera store to buy a camera, the first question that the salesperson will ask you is what kind of photography you like to do. It is worth asking yourself this question before anyone else asks it. This will help you to decide the features and accessories that you will require. Are you looking for a general camera to record the moments of your life? Want to travel with your camera? Are you going to use for sports photography? Low-light or microphotography? Make a list of the type of photography for which you want to use the camera.
Size- One of the important tips to buy a DSLR is to consider its size. These cameras are more sizeable than the small point and shoot cameras, but there is a bit of alteration in the sizes. Some photographers do not mind carrying a heavyweight gear but if you are going to carry your camera while traveling, then it is always better to choose small and light-weight models.
Previous gear- The most attractive thing about a DSLR camera is they are compatible with some of the gear that you might have with you already. This is mainly the case of camera lenses. Maximum chances are that if you have a film SLR then your lenses might be compatible with your DSLR camera. Do not think that all the lenses will be compatible, but it is worth asking the question as it can help you save a lot of money. If you have a point and shoot camera then you must check the type of memory card that it has as some DSLR models could be compatible with them as well. This possibly will not be a major consideration as the memory cards are much cheaper than earlier, but it is one of the important tips to buy a DSLR camera.
Lenses- One of the most important tips to buy a DSLR camera is to consider its lenses. Lenses are one of the most significant tools for improving the actual quality of the image. It is the most important deciding factor between professionally edited photographs and average pictures. Check whether the lenses that you own currently are compatible with different DSL models. Often, lenses end up being the steady investment with time regarding photography tools, with camera bodies shifting rapidly.
Size of the sensor- Another important thing to consider while buying the best DSLR camera is the size of the image sensor. The term, “crop factor” comes up when you discuss the size of the image sensor. In general, a large sensor has many benefits compared to a small one.
Resolution- “How many megapixels does the camera has” is the first question that strikes everyone’s mind when they see a camera. In fact, it is an important question to consider as DSLR cameras come with a variety of megapixel ratings. Megapixels come into the scene when you consider how you are going to use the images. If you are going to print the photographs, then more megapixels are always good. If you are planning to print your pictures in small sizes, them megapixels is not that important.