This is probably the most common question I get asked and it's a topic I see discussed time and time again on photography and tech blogs. I'm going to approach it a little differently today. I could write at length about technical specifications and model comparisons, but I won't. If you have to ask the question "What camera should I buy?" chances are good that tech specs and model comparisons would only confuse you further. There are, however, a few basic things you should consider when buying your first digital camera:
1. Buy only what you need. It's easy to get swept away by the allure and sophistication of high-end digital SLRs. They're so big, and shiny, and OMG look at all those buttons! Stay focused on what you actually need. Purchasing a pro-level DSLR right away will give you some bragging rights, sure, but it will also cause a lot of frustration and confusion. Know your level of education and buy accordingly and you'll be much happier with your purchase. Here's a brief guide to common camera types and who they're designed for:
Point and shoots: These have fixed lenses (meaning you can't change them), built-in flashes, and usually operate with a few different auto modes. The name says it all. You just point and shoot. They're small so they're good for travel. They're very easy to operate, so they're good for children or for anyone who doesn't want to fumble with a lot of buttons and menus. The image quality, however, reflects their small size and price. Don't expect the quality you're used to seeing from a DSLR.
Super-zooms: Also called bridge or prosumer cameras. These cameras resemble a small DSLR camera but like a point and shoot, their lenses are fixed. They have a few more settings than your typical point and shoot, including manual mode which allows you to adjust aperture, shutter speed, ISO, etc. They have powerful zooms up to 26x which is great for things like sports and wildlife. I've had a few super-zooms and while I love their zoominess (is that a word?), the lenses are very prone to malfunction. One bump against a wall and the whole casing goes crooked and then you might as well toss it in the garbage. The cost to fix a super-zoom is usually more than it's worth. So I wouldn't recommend one for children or the accident prone.
Entry-level DSLRs: These are your first step in DSLR ownership. DSLRs allow you to change lenses which opens up a whole new world of creativity. They have all the functions and settings your experimental and artistic mind needs. They also come with a 200+ page manual that, at first glance, looks like it's written in Latin... and you will be quizzed afterwards. Their price reflects their quality. They're rugged and heavy. They have larger sensors than their P&S and super-zoom predecessors, and they come with all the accessories you can imagine. These cameras are for anyone who is serious about learning the art and the technology behind photography.
Mirrorless, compact DSLRs: Aha! These are a new form of DSLR. They have the bodies of a point and shoot with the power of a DSLR. Their lenses are interchangeable and they have similar functions of a full-size DSLR, but because of their size, they're great for travel! I think they're great! However, because these cameras are so new, there's still some bugs to work out with image quality and they're quite expensive and so are their accessories. If you're looking to buy a compact DSLR, I'd recommend waiting a few years. Let the manufacturers work out the kinks and lower the prices a bit.
2. You get what you pay for. This is particularly true with electronics of any kind. Being a frugal shopper myself, I understand how hard it is to pay full price for anything. It's always tempting to go for the cheaper version, especially when it appears to be no different than the higher priced version. This may be ok when buying something like cereal, but off-brand cameras are usually poorly made. They have small and cheap sensors. They have little or no tech support if something should go wrong, and it's nearly impossible to find accessories for an off-brand camera. Spend the extra money and get a camera that will last you a long time. A camera is an investment. Considering what you do with them, you could even call them priceless.
3. Be careful who you're buying from. Ok, so you've taken my previous bit of advice and you've decided to get a good quality Nikon, but you still want to find a deal on it. Go for it! Just be careful who you're buying it from. If you're like 95% of the population, you'll be buying it online. The amount of fraudulent sellers online is enough to make my tummy turn. Bait and switch tactics, unprotected overseas transactions, and even identity theft are all common occurrences. Before you purchase any electronic online, check the seller or store rating at ReSellerRatings.com.
*A side note regarding Craigslist: I love Craigslist. I think it's a very accommodating marketplace for photographers. I would not recommend it for first-time buyers, however, for the same reasons I stated above. Craigslist, much like the interwebz, is full of people trying to profit from your inexperience.
So there you have it. My three cents on purchasing your first digital camera. Be a smart shopper. A camera is an investment, after all. It will teach you how to capture the world around you, keep your most precious memories safe, and become an invaluable companion. Good luck!
PS - Check back soon for my list of recommended camera models and brands!
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