There was a time when choosing a camera depends largely on how much you can afford to pay for it. Believe it or not, it was really that straightforward. Well, to be honest about it, those days are long gone. Now, choosing the perfect camera that fits your needs is a lot more complicated. There are a lot of factors that come into play. As such, your budget becomes just one of the things you have to consider when making your final decision.
With the wide variety of products available, just how do you know which camera to buy? Will a simple point and shoot camera be good enough for you or do you need a DSLR camera to suit your needs? To help you make up your mind, here are some things you may need to consider:
Point and Click Cameras
The point and click camera is perfect for people who just want a small camera that has the capability to take good quality and easy-to-upload photos and videos. This is also the perfect choice for those who want to capture decent photos and videos but don’t have the financial capability to buy the more expensive DSLR cameras.
Most digital point and shoot cameras have the following features. See if these will work for you.
Point and shoot cameras have an easy interface so it is definitely perfect for a novice. However, if you are looking to have more control over the way you shoot your images, you won’t find it here.
They come in a wide range of sizes.
These cameras take decent quality photos and videos but don’t produce good quality audio in the video recording mode.
If you feel that this is the right one for you, here are some tips to help you find the best point and shoot camera available in the market today:
Pick a camera with good lens. Choose one that can go longer and wider and has an f-stop rating lower than f/2.8.
Smaller is not necessarily better. Please take note that smaller cameras may have a limited zoom range.
Go for rugged designs. If you are more of the adventurous, outdoorsy type, you should choose a camera that can survive the elements.
Try before you buy. If it is at all possible, you should try how the camera feels on your hand before paying for it. See how the buttons and menus work.
DSLR Cameras
If you are looking for a camera that takes really good photos, then you should consider nothing but a DSLR camera. So, if you are a professional photographer, a film maker or a serious hobbyist who wants to have total control over the technical aspects of your images, this is what you need.
In buying a digital camera, here are some of the things you may want to consider:
Your purpose. In choosing a DSLR camera, you need to consider the type of photography you will be using it for. Will you use it for portrait photography or macro photography? Will you be using it for landscape photography and sports photography as well? Think about it. This is extremely important since this will determine the features and accessories that you need.
Consider the features. If you want to buy a good-quality DSLR, you must take special notice of the burst mode, maximum shutter speed and ISO ratings. Does it have anti-shake technology, dust protection and connectivity options as well?
Compatibility with previous gear. One good thing about DSLRs is that there is a great probability that they are compatible with some of the gears and accessories you already own. For all you know, some of your lenses and memory cards can still be used with your new DSLR so don’t hesitate in asking the dealer about it.
Possibility of future upgrades. If you are looking to buy an entry-level DSLR, ask yourself if you wouldn’t need to upgrade your equipment as soon as you gain your expertise.
Now, do you know which camera is right for you?
I hope you find today’s post useful,
Ray Baker