Ready to upgrade to a DSLR? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the different options, here are some points to consider.
- Budget. Before considering (and falling in love with) the bells and whistles of a certain camera, set your budget. Keep in mind that you’ll need a camera case, lenses, batteries, and memory cards.
- Portability. If you’re used to the ease and convenience of your cell phone camera, ask yourself: Will your DSLR collect dust while you continue to shoot with your phone because it’s waaay lighter and always with you?
- Verify the release date. There’s NO worse feeling than buying version 4 … and then version 5 comes out two days later (and is 100 times better!). That can be so frustrating if the upgrade is something you would have really loved. If not, however, you may be able to save some $$$ on version 4 after version 5 hits the shelves.
- What about updates and upgrades? Will this camera allow for them?
- Is there full manual mode? A whole new world of creativity awaits anyone who is brave enough to learn how to shoot manually. Double check that this camera will allow you to easily adjust your settings in manual mode.
- Lenses. Most DSLRs come with a kit lens. Some people, however, find they like working with a variety of lenses, which can be as expensive or more expensive than camera bodies. A 50 mm lens is my favorite for kids portraits. And Canon just so happens to offer one at a not-too-crazy price.
- When in doubt, rent. If you’re REALLY stumped and just aren’t sure which camera to choose, go online or to a local camera store and rent a camera for the weekend.
- Don’t be overly swayed by megapixels. Each generation of camera is offering higher amounts of megapixels. Truthfully, unless you’re a professional, plan on printing billboards, or LOOOOOOVE to crop in tight in your images, anything at 10 megapixels or above is going to be great.
- Full frame or no? I love my full-frame camera. Is it necessary? Of course not. Does it have advantages? Of course… but it has drawbacks, too. Including price. Learn more about full-frame cameras here. (http://www.techradar.com/how-to/photography-video-capture/cameras/full-frame-dslr-do-you-really-need-one-1320838)
- Try shooting with the camera to see if you like the size and weight. Does it feel good in your hands? Anything too heavy or too small to hold with a solid grip is going to lead to shaky shooting … which leads to blur. It doesn’t matter how much someone else loves a camera … if it doesn’t feel good in your hands, then it’s not for you!
- What about video capability? If you know you’d like to shoot video, then make sure the camera you’re considering offers good video capabilities.
- Check out reviews and feedbacks about specific cameras.
Happy shooting!
………….
Kate Callahan is an on-location photographer who LOVES to capture authentic memories for families. She’s available for weddings, senior photos, child photo sessions, and family photography. Kate works with clients throughout the Hudson Valley, NYC, Delaware (and the tri-state area), and beyond. Visit her
photography blog.
Other posts by this this blogger
Aug 6, 2020
Help get your budding little photographer's creative juices flowing with these 8 fun photography activities for kids.
Aug 6, 2020
Your kids love you just the way you are right now. So, please, please, please ... push past any insecurities you may have and get in the photos with your little ones!
Mar 20, 2019
Need tips for better spring photos? Try out these 10 suggestions.
Jun 15, 2018
kids in the hudson valley share wise words with adults
May 3, 2018
An esthetician at Savor Beauty Salon in Saugerties shares some tips on how to help your teen/tween take better care of their skin.
Apr 17, 2018
With just a few adjustments, you can take better photos of your children. Here are two easy changes that will dramatically improve the quality of the photos you take of your kids.
Mar 1, 2018
kids in the hudson valley share wise words with adults
Feb 7, 2018
With just a few adjustments, you can take better photos of your children. Here are 3 things NOT to do to improve the quality of your photos.
Jan 5, 2018
Staying in this weekend? Here's a variety of pancake recipes to try with the kids, including gluten-free, paleo, and vegan.
Dec 18, 2017
A family photo scavenger hunt is a creative and fun way to take better candid photos.
Nov 23, 2017
three labs that offer a wonderful selection of high-quality holiday cards
Oct 30, 2017
The perfect gluten-free cookies to bake with your kids
Sep 20, 2017
Fall is everyone's favorite time of year for family photos. Here are 10 tips to help you make the most of your professional photo session.
Aug 18, 2017
kids in the hudson valley share wise words with adults
Aug 16, 2017
A list of 9 tips to customize your instagram stories
Aug 2, 2017
A list of easy and fun pictures you can take of your child on his or her first day of school.
Jul 31, 2017
A professional photographer shares some tips on how teen/tween modeling
Jul 28, 2017
A professional photographer shares a tip for how to look more relaxed in photos
Jul 24, 2017
A professional photographer considers the most popular stages for photos during a baby's first year of life.
Jul 5, 2017
A professional photographer shares some tips on submitting photos to child modeling agencies
Jun 22, 2017
kids in the hudson valley share wise words with adults
Jun 11, 2017
how to use natural reflectors to brighten photos of your kids
Jun 6, 2017
A professional photographer shares some tips for a DIY backyard photo shoot with your kids this summer.
May 29, 2017
It can be a challenge to take beautiful photos of your kids at the beach. Here are a few tips to make it easier.
May 22, 2017
With just a few adjustments, you can take better photos of your children. Here are 9 tips that will greatly improve your skills as a photographer.
Apr 20, 2017
A professional newborn photo shoot is a wonderful experience for families. But if it's not in the budget, or if you just want to attempt the photos yourself for other reasons, here are a few easy setups you can try yourself.
Apr 11, 2017
A professional newborn photo shoot is a wonderful experience for families. But if it's not in the budget, or if you just want to attempt the photos yourself for other reasons, here are a few general tips.