3 Tips on buying a camera

November 23, 2011 | cecil 0

So you want to buy a camera. There are a lot of factors that are in play when considering buying a camera. I think that the main questions one should ask themselves is why. Why do you want to buy a camera and how will you be using it? It is perfectly okay to have a camera for just casual use. Having the ability to create the impromptu photograph. Or are you interested in creating a higher quality image. If going for that higher quality image do you have aspirations of making money in photography.

How will you be using the camera: Point and Shoot or DSLR? Point and shoot cameras have come a long way and can create some magnificent images. Most point and shoot cameras have a retlative good zoom lenses but most do not have interchangeable lenses. Some of the major advantages of point and shoot cameras are size, weight and concealment. The ability to always have it in your pocket. With the DSLR normally you have a bit more flexibility as it relates to image size. Most DSLR’s also have the ability to create RAW images therefore making larger images. DSLR’s also have the ability to change lenses therefore creating different visual perspectives.
Price consideration: Most point and shoot cameras will range from about $150 on the low end to just about $1200 on the high end - Some DSLR ‘s start as a kit. Kit lenses are normally not the the best the manufacture has to offer so most pros will purchase the body only and opt for the lens a la carte. Your better DSLR’s will start around $400-500 and some with body alone can wind up as high as $7000 to $8000.
Features: So what features must YOU have based on what you want to do with your camera? Camera RAW images will afford you a wide dynamic color range. 1080P will allow you to view your images on your HDTV with minimal loss of quality. A built in flash will give you the flexibility in low or no light situations. A good zoom lens can be of great value creating wide angle images at the same time creating a great portrait without changing lenses.

So as you see there are many factors to take into consideration when buying a digital camera. But I the primary question should be how are you going to use the camera that should guide you to your solution. Good luck.

While waiting for Nikons new line of professional DSLR’s my current camera is a Nikon D300. I have always used Nikon except for a 3 month period years ago. For me Nikon is a personal preference, I like the feel of the system and it has never failed me.