How To Choose Your Perfect Camera
So you've decided to invest in a new digital camera and take up amateur photography - but everything is so confusing! I can help you narrow down the list by keeping a few simple things in mind.
How To Choose Your Perfect Camera
So you've decided to invest in a new digital camera and take up amateur photography. With the rise of technology, and the drop in prices over recent years, it's certainly become a lot more affordable than it used to be. And it's fun! So here's a question I get asked - All. The. Time. "How do I choose a new camera? Everything is so confusing!"
Well, if AF function, megapixel, and FX/DX aren't part of your regular vocabulary, it can be overwhelming to choose a new dslr camera. I can help you narrow down the list by keeping a few simple things in mind:
Although it may not be a fun fact of life, your spending budget is typically the first thing that should be considered when shopping for a camera. I'll make a very general statement and say that hobbyists can expect to spend anywhere from $550 up to $4,000 (or more) on their camera systems. Once you determine what you're willing to spend on your system, you'll automatically narrow down the list and you can begin searching websites or stores and compare cameras that are only within your budget range.
When deciding how much you'd like to spend, it may help to think about all the different items that you'll possibly be purchasing for your system, such as:
~ camera body
~ camera lenses
~ camera bag
~ lens filters, cleaning kits
~ insurance/warranty
~ memory cards
~ editing software
The Nikon and Canon sites that show their current dslr cameras, along with pricing and spec information. These are great sites to begin your search and find out what is available in your price range. Obviously there's many more brands that offer great cameras, but Nikon & Canon are probably the most popular with name recognition.
Many stores now sell dslr cameras in great packages, or kits, that may include a few lenses, a carrying bag, tripod, memory cards and photo software.
The good thing about purchasing a package is that you'll usually get a better price on the bundled items than if you were to buy them individually. Kits are also a good starting point if you know none of the "technical" stuff about photography and just want to invest in a more versatile camera than a point-n-shoot. The drawback to purchasing kits is that you may end up with lenses or accessories that aren't the best fit for your style of photography.
The good thing about purchasing individual items is that you can create your ideal system based on your specific shooting style. If you have some basic knowledge of the "technical stuff" about photography or know exactly what you shoot most of the time, you will probably benefit from buying your camera body and lenses individually.
With so many purchasing options available today, whether to buy New or Used equipment can be a difficult choice. Here's a few things to keep in mind when deciding which route to go:
New equipment typically includes a warranty and you get all the fun of knowing you're the first person ever to click that shutter! What may surprise you though is that sometimes camera bodies need "broken in" just like other products. Their buttons and mechanisms may be a little stiff to start with but it only takes a few uses to get them working easily. And when you begin with a new camera you should expect plenty of years of use with it.
Used equipment can sometimes include their warranties if they transfer over from the previous owner. Be sure to ask about that before buying. If you're patient and search in plenty of places, you may be able to save hundreds of dollars by buying used equipment. But keep in mind that camera equipment does hold it's value well so any money you've saved vs. buying new is a good investment as long as the equipment is in good condition.
Obviously you stand the risk of purchasing something that has been damaged or doesn't have much life left in it. When buying a camera body, be sure to ask the seller how many "shutter clicks" the camera has. Shutter clicks are like miles on a car; the more it has, the more it's been used. Many cameras are rated for 150,000 shutter clicks but, as with any purchase, it's not a guarantee that it will last that long. That's why it's important to find an honest seller with a good reputation.
LOCAL - I always always always tell my friends to start their shopping at a local camera store! Camera stores usually have lots of cameras in stock and their salespeople are also photographers and should be able to answer all your questions very well. I was trying to decide between a Canon or a Nikon a few years ago so I went to Dodd Camera, by the Dayton Mall, and was able to try out both bodies right there in the store. It's such a big help to be able to hold the camera in your hands, work the buttons, and see what feels comfortable for you. {I bought the Nikon!} Of course large retailers sell great cameras too, and you may get a good price during major sales. But I recommend to go support your local camera store, where you'll also get the best information on all the products you're considering buying. Dodd Camera (photo right) is my choice for the Dayton area.
ONLINE - If you've decided on a specific body or lens, online shopping is an attractive option. Shipping on many sites is usually free and very quick. I've purchased several lenses on ebay and had a great experience with all of them. I always make sure to check the seller ratings and I read the feedback that they've had on their transactions. If you can't view the items in person, request plenty of recent pictures and find out what the return policy is if there's any damage. I spent several weeks watching ebay for a lens I wanted and ended up saving over $800 on a used lens. You may have to invest some time into online shopping but the savings can be worth it. I also recommend usedcameras.com and B&H Photo for new or used. If you're wanting to upgrade your equipment or switch out different pieces to suit your style better, I've sold a few things on craigslist and it worked out very nicely. Of course you have to be careful if offering in-person sales, but the buyer enjoyed that he could try out the lens first before purchasing.
I hope these tips help you out to find your perfect camera! I've got so much more great information coming to you... So Stay Tuned :)
