Shopping for a new camera can be overwhelming. There are so many camera types with different features that may or may not be best for your needs. Choosing a camera doesn’t have to be so difficult if you sit down and determine how you’ll be using it.
How to Choose a Camera
First, decide what you want this camera for. Do you want something that you can easily take with you in your purse on vacations and for snapshots? Do you want something that you can change the settings on with ease to take more professional looking images, possibly for editing, or for starting a business? Or are you wanting a camera that you can beat up and throw around that won’t get wrecked? Your answers to these questions will help you decide.
For those who are looking for something that will out perform their smartphone, but still something that can be taken along with them easily and without dealing with extra parts or pieces, you will want what is called a “point and shoot” camera. There are minimal setting options, but it will take clear and crisp photos in just about any setting when used correctly. These cameras are fairly inexpensive and there are many brands to choose from. Browsing your local electronic store and reading reviews on Amazon can help set you on the right track for a point and shoot camera.
If you are looking for a more complex camera, where you can purchase more accessories and new lenses for more professional looking photos, then you may be in the market for a Digital single-lens reflex camera aka DSLR camera. The two major brands that photographers swear by are Canon and Nikon. Both are equally as good as far as image quality goes. Canon does, however, seem to be a bit cheaper than Nikon. I’m personally a Canon girl. Ten years ago, I received my very first DSLR and it was a Canon. I tried to operate a Nikon twice and my hands couldn’t get with it.
DSLR cameras will allow you to adjust a plethora of settings that will allow you to create the artistic images that you desire. DSLR cameras will take a bit of effort to learn how to use, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes easier. The downfall to using DSLR cameras is that they are not as portable as point and shoot. They are bulky especially when you factor in the lens attachments, but Panasonic and Sony seem to be changing the game with their mirrorless cameras.
Mirrorless cameras are great if you want the functions of a DSLR in a much smaller size. Mirrorless cameras and lens are a bit pricier than DSLR cameras and lens, but I’m sure that will change in a few years. If high quality, professional images are what you’re after, a DSLR or mirrorless is a great choice. DSLR and mirrorless cameras range from around $500 used, and new at prices ranging from around $700 to $2000 depending on what brand, style and lenses included.
If you are someone who enjoys the great outdoors and would like a camera to take on your adventures, an action camera such as an Olympus Tough or Go Pro might be just the thing that you are looking for. Not only can these cameras handle crazy temperatures, but they can be taken under water, attached to moving vehicles and bikes, and they produce great quality photos and videos when used properly.
Whether you’re a hobbyest or looking to start a creative business, I hope this quick guide helps you with the initial steps in purchasing your new camera! So, have you narrowed down your choices? What cameras do you have on your wishlist?
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