A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing a dSLR Camera

If you’re tired of fussing with the settings on your phone’s camera or are frustrated with the poor picture quality produced by your point-and-click, then the time has come to upgrade to a shiny new dSLR (digital single-lens reflex).

 

Every year dSLR cameras become faster and better than ever, but which is the right one to purchase (or put on your holiday wish list) in 2014? Here are a few things to consider when choosing a dSLR camera:

 

1) Buy for your level of expertise

 

Getting the hang of a new dSLR camera can be tricky—especially for beginners—so make sure you purchase a camera that’s easy to use.

 

If you’re not sure where to begin, this list of best entry-level dSLRs of 2014 can help point you in the right direction. You can also scan reviews on Amazon or Google to make sure the camera you’re interested in is beginner friendly.

2) Determine your intended use

 

What are your intentions for this camera? Action shots? Portraits? Night shoots? Once you’ve determined the type of images you want to capture, then it’ll be much easier for you to focus on the specifications and features that will best suit your needs.

 

If you need a refresher on camera spec definitions, learn more here.

 

3) Understand pricing

 

It isn’t necessarily true that the higher the price tag, the better the quality of camera. There are plenty of affordable dSLR options available that are just as good—if not better—than the pricier models. Check out this article on dSLR camera’s under $1,000 for side-by-side comparison of features and price tags.

 

4) Get all the gear

 

Just like a newborn, your new dSLR baby will require a lot of gear and equipment when you’re ready to take it out on the town. Use Amazon’s “Frequently Bought Together” suggestions to see what additional gear other photographers purchased with the camera you’re interested in.This will also help give you a better picture of the full cost of involved with the camera.

 

5) Make sure the resolution will be crystal clear

 

The amount of megapixels a camera has, and its sensor size, will help to improve the resolution, size, and quality of the photos you will take. If you’re looking to make large prints of your photos, then the more megapixels and sensor size on your camera, the better.

 

Once your list of dSLR requirements is ready to go, take your time as you shop around—finding the right camera can make all the difference.