You don’t have to be Steven Spielberg to enjoy a capable camera for home movies, photography, and other such projects. Nowadays, you can purchase a fantastic DSLR camera from any good retailer for a reasonable price and still receive great value for money. If you are a budding photographer, you’ll want a DSLR camera around your neck every time you leave the house. After all, you never know when inspiration is going to strike.
If you’re new to DSLR cameras and need some help picking the right one for you, we have created this handy buying guide that should answer all of your questions.
What is a DSLR camera?
Quite simply, a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera is the most popular digital camera in the world. These nifty pieces of technology combine a digital imaging sensor with the mechanisms and optics of a single-lens reflex camera. The reflex design is what sets these cameras apart from the competition. One of the biggest selling points of DSLR cameras is the ability to change the lens on the camera body depending on what you’re trying to achieve with your photo or video.
Why do you need a DSLR camera?
The DSLR camera is perfect for any budding photographer or filmographer. They are easy enough to master and suitable enough for experienced enthusiasts. Basically, if you are interested in cameras in any way, you can’t go wrong with a DSLR.
You are a photographer
As we mentioned before, DSLR cameras are fabulous for anybody who enjoys taking photographs. It doesn’t matter if you are a complete beginner, you’ll pick things up very quickly. In fact, most semi-professional and professional photographers still use DSLR cameras for most of their work, due to the camera’s reliability and versatility.
You enjoy making movies
The DSLR may not be as advanced as the very best cameras used on major Hollywood film sets, but it will more than do the trick if you’re looking to make independent, low-budget films. Heck, you can even make good quality movies with an iPhone these days, though you’re better off sticking to a DSLR camera if you value quality and image resolution.
You don’t have to carry film everywhere
One of the best things about a DSLR camera is the fact you don’t need a film to take a good photo or video. All DSLR cameras store your images on an SD card. This can be easily removed and inserted into your laptop or computer for viewing and editing.
What should I consider before buying a DSLR camera?
If you are reading this buying guide, there is a good chance you are just getting into photography. You may be unsure about the things to look for in a good DSLR camera. Before purchasing any camera, make sure you consider the following factors.
Brand
Many people wonder if there is a difference in quality between brands. This is a difficult question to answer. Nikon and Canon are two of the biggest brands in the world. Most of their DSLR cameras will serve you well. However, the biggest thing to consider is countless accessories and lenses specific to the brand. You’ll want to research all these additional features, as you’re likely to continue buying from that brand until you get another camera.
Image quality
Most people have some sort of understanding of the word megapixel. The MP number on your camera will tell you roughly how good the image quality is - the higher the MP count, the better the photograph. But this should not be the only thing you consider, because all DSLR cameras have enough MP to meet most requirements. One good tip is to look for high ISO sensitivity. A camera with a high ISO of 1600 will do a good job at capturing what you see with your naked eye.
Lenses
You don’t just want to buy the camera. Invest in some good quality lenses of varying focal lengths. These will lend themselves to different projects. Think about the sort of photography you want to create, then research the best lenses to make your vision become a reality.
Sensor Size
If you truly care about image quality, you should consider the size of your camera’s sensor more than the MP count. You can choose between APS-C or full-frame image sensors. APS-C is the smaller of the two but makes your photos look as though they were shot with a longer lens. DSLR cameras with these sensors tend to be cheaper.
Full-frame sensors are usually found in most professional DSLR cameras. These sensors use the whole of the lens and generally include better detail and far less noise than the less expensive alternative.
DSLR camera price range
Before you go out and buy the first DSLR camera that falls into your budget. Make a note of everything you want it to include and ask the good folks at your local photography store. You may actually get the perfect DSLR for you for much cheaper than you initially planned to spend.
Some cameras can be bought for a little over $100 and are more than suitable for beginners. However, if you start to get serious about photography, you’re going to want to invest a little more money if you want quality. Typically, most decent cameras fall between $250 - $500, though the price can far exceed those figures if you’re looking to get really technical.
FAQ
Why do I need different lenses?
Technically, you don’t need different lenses, especially if you’re a complete beginner. But if you want to start experimenting, interchangeable lenses are a great way to capture different moods. From portrait photography to landscape shots, you will require a different focal length for each project you undertake. Variety is the spice of life
Isn’t my phone just as advanced as a DSLR camera?
Your phone is many things, but it cannot compete with a moderately-priced DSLR camera. These cameras are purpose-built to take high-resolution, up to 40 megapixels and even higher. You also get more control of focal length and exposure. Smartphone cameras are handy, but if you are serious about photography, you need (at least) a DSLR camera in your life.