One of my most asked questions from those new to photography is around which would be the best camera for them to buy as their first step.
Unfortunately there is not a simple answer to this question but here is some advise that should make the decision some what easier.
Most people when starting in photography want a camera that will just about do anything and will also slip into their pocket, and cannot understand why those who have been doing photography for some time appear to carry a large heavy looking backpack or bag around with them all the time. The reason in part is that most photographers like equipment, but there is often a genuine reason for having a little bit more than just a camera in their bag, a couple of different lenses a separate flash unit and one or two spare cards and batteries will allow for a far greater scope and duration to what they will be able to photograph. You don’t have to rush out and buy more than you need but be prepared to allow yourself to grow into a equipment carrying person !
Let’s start with the the very first thing you will need, the camera itself, there is still an option of film or digital, yes don’t dismiss film despite what you may have heard it is still alive and doing very well, however the one advantage digital for someone new to photography is the speed in which you will learn with a digital camera compared to film, as everything is will be so instant for you. I wouldn’t dismiss film and once you are up and running visit it you may never touch a digital camera again after that, but I suspect you will for it’s convenience.
There are a lot of types of digital camera available, probably more now than ever and most manufactories seem to want to make choosing even harder by offer many similar cameras with slightly different model numbers. I would ignore all of that because let’s be honest a manufacturer is interested in product positioning not photography.
For a first camera I would recommend an entry level DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) from a well known manufacturer such as Nikon or Canon there will be a few different models but they all pretty well do the the same thing so choose the one you like, and most importantly feels right in your hand as well as your pocket. There is nothing wrong with buying second hand either but you have to know what you want first if you choose this option, and with second hand I would suggest you are looking at a better quality than you would new, for instance an earlier model of a camera you would like but cannot really afford.
With most DSLR you should be able to get it as a kit with a lens, these lenses are never too great but there are a good starting point as most will be mid ranged zooms that will give some flexibility. Once you have a DSLR with a kit lens and start using it you will i am sure know the direction in which your photography is heading and may then look at either upgrading your kit lens or possibly your whole system.
Current Canon & Nikon "Entry Level" DSRL Camera Kits (Includes a lens) for under £300 :
Current Canon & Nikon "Entry Level" DSRL Camera Kits (Includes a lens) for under £300 :
A DSLR basically means you are looking through the lens and when you take the picture, a mirror allowing for your view, lifts up to allow the shot to be taken. The advantages of this is that you see exactly what the camera is and allows for fine tuning of your focus, the disadvantage is some reduction in quality and potential camera shake from the mirror moving. This is not usually detectable but for slower shutter speeds it will became more noticeable. Any time you use a slow shutter speed keeping camera still by either resting it on a firm surface or placing it on a tripod will help significantly.
I promise to cover other types of cameras and there particular benefits in future blogs but feel there is enough information here to help with the initial dilemma of which first camera to buy.