Trying to find the perfect camera may seem difficult at first. but having the right machine will open you up to a new world of potential when it comes to the photos that you take. That is why it is important to take proper attention and care when picking out your first digital camera. Here is a look at some insight into how you can pick out the perfect camera for you, so that you end up with something that you can use to take beautiful looking photos and video.
Know Your Options
Before you head to the electronics store to pick out a camera, it’s important that you know what you are looking for. There are a variety of different elements that go into a camera, all of which will affect the overall quality of the pictures that you are taking. Here are the attributes that you should be sure to take into consideration when purchasing your first camera.
SLR or DSLR?
The two most common types of cameras that you’ll want to consider are SLR and DSLR. The difference between SLR and DSLR is the way that the photograph is viewable by the photographer, as well as the options that the camera provides. SLR, or single-lens reflex, cameras were created long before DSLR, or digital single-lens reflex, cameras. SLR cameras use a single lens to take the photograph, while DSLR cameras have a viewfinder in the way of a digital image. Both cameras are great for taking photos at a long distance, especially because of how far in you can zoom on your image. However, the main difference is that DSLR cameras can produce images that may be different than what was expected on the digital screen, unlike an SLR camera that uses a viewfinder and is typically the exact image the photographer shot.
Megapixels
Another consideration to make when purchasing your camera is the amount of megapixels it offers. Megapixels refer to the amount of pixels that are in your image. In case you didn’t know, photos are made up of thousands of tiny little squares that come together to make the entirety of the image. These squares are referred to as pixels in the photography world, and megapixels refers to the resolution per one million pixels. Many smaller cameras offer megapixels in the 8-10mpxl range. However, DSLR and SLR cameras can offer megapixels as high as 24mpxl, which will give you beautiful and crisp looking photographs.
Optical & Digital Zoom
As mentioned, both DSLR and SLR cameras are a popular choice for photographers because of their zoom capabilities. However, there is a great difference between optical and digital zoom. Cameras with more powerful optical zooms will look much clearer than digital zooms, which can look grainy the more that you focus on your target. Keep in mind that you can alter the overall quality of your photos in a photo editing program after you shoot your images, so optical zoom and digital zoom may not be a huge priority. However, if you can opt for optical zoom within the same price range, it may be a better option for you to consider.
Aspect Ratio
The aspect ratio of your camera refers to the overall size of the photos you’ll be shooting. DSLR and SLR cameras have much better aspect ratios than smaller point-and-shoot cameras, making for better photo quality. Most DSLR and SLR cameras use an aspect ratio of 4:3, which will look ideal when uploaded online or printed out.
Sensitivity
If you’ve ever seen a photograph that looked very blurry, that is because it had a lot of noise in the image. In order to reduce noise, cameras should have an ISO setting of at least 100 or 200. However, better quality cameras offer as high as ISO 25,000, which will dramatically reduce the amount of noise that you have in a photograph that you shoot. Because there is such a variance in ISO settings, it’s vital that you have the right settings for the type of photos that you’ll be taking.
White Balance
The amount of white that you have in your image will great determine the overall quality of your photo. ISO settings also play a huge part in white balance, which is why it’s important to consider this factor when looking at cameras for sale.
Consider Your Features
Now that you know exactly what type of camera you may want to look for, here are some added features that you may want to consider during the purchase process. They will help you better find the camera that is going to be perfect for the uses you have for it.
Size
A photographer who is always on the go and taking photos while traveling, may want to consider a camera that is different than one who has a studio and takes stationary pictures. DSLR cameras can often be used for both situations, while SLR cameras may be a bit harder for you to take with you everywhere you go, simply because of the amount of equipment you’ll need to carry with you.
Video Playback
Having video playback is a big feature that many people want to consider, though only one type of camera will offer this option. SLR cameras do not have the technology required to take video, which means that this won’t be an option for those wanting video. However, DSLR video is an option from DSRL cameras, making it a more useful consideration for those who need to shoot video as well as take photos.
Display Screen Size
Another consideration to make that will only be necessary with DSLR cameras is the size of the screen for playback. Keep in mind that regular SLR cameras do not offer a digital screen, so if it is something that you want, then you’ll wan to look to digital SLR camera reviews to find the best option for you. Some DSLR cameras have digital images and a lens, which is another consideration, albeit an expensive one, to make.
Memory
Lastly, DSLR cameras also offer internal memory that you should keep in mind as well. Digital photographs are not stored on film, but rather on a digital memory card. You will want to find bigger memory options, depending on the type of file that you save your photos as. Cameras that export via JPEG images require much less memory, while TIFF and RAW photos will require a substantial amount more. .
How To Find The Best Camera At A Great Price
Now that you know what you are looking for, the question remains as to where you can find cameras for sale. It’s important to remember that you could buy your first camera at a store or you could buy it second-hand. The latter choice will likely allow you to save money, while buying it new will often times give you more features that are available in the ever-changing tech industry.
Now that you have all of the information that you need, you can begin taking photos that capture the special moments in your life. Just be sure to consider the beginners guide tips mentioned here for buying a camera, to ensure that you get exactly what you want.
