Tips on buying cameras
DESPITE the popularity of smartphones for photography, cameras still hold a special place in the hearts of many people, especially hobbyists and professionals.
There’s something special about taking pictures with cameras.
Being a techie and photography hobbyist who uses both devices for photography, I can say that taking pictures with a camera will give you more satisfaction and enhance your knowledge of photography.
I’m not saying that smartphone pictures are not good. With all the imaging technology available, smartphone photos are splendid, and some can be as good as the ones produced by professional cameras.
However, the knowledge you gain about photography when using a camera is better as the learning curve is greater.
If you’re using a smartphone, you’ll get everything — camera, lenses and software — in one device, and almost everything is automatic, so there’s nothing much to learn about photography.
But if you use a camera, you’ll need to consider many factors, like the sensors, lenses, aperture, shutter speed, white balance and exposure to get the picture.
That’s why when you look at photos produced by photographers who use cameras, the results are better and unique.
So if you plan to start photography as a hobby and want to invest in a camera, here are five tips for you.
DETERMINE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY GENRES
Choosing the right camera depends on what you intend to use it for and how much you’re willing to spend.
Consider factors such as your photography interests, such as landscape, portrait, wildlife, sports or street.
While generally all cameras can be used for all photography genres, there are certain cameras that are designed to be better for certain genres.
For example, a fast mirrorless or digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera can be good for sports and wildlife photography, but a smaller mirrorless camera is perfect for street photography.
BUDGET AND PLATFORM
While budget considerations are
important, it’s advisable to invest in the latest camera models whenever possible.
Newer models often feature significant advancements in technology, performance and image quality, ensuring that your investment remains relevant for longer.
You also need to consider the platform you’ll be investing in: crop sensor or full frame (35mm) cameras.
Crop-sensor cameras often have a crop factor (usually 1.5x or 1.6x), which affects the effective focal length of lenses.
Full-frame cameras are compatible with a wider range of lenses without any crop factor.
They provide the true focal length
as indicated on the lens, making them more versatile for various types of photography.
ERGONOMICS AND SIZE
Pick a camera that’s comfortable for you to hold, with intuitive controls and interfaces to enhance your shooting experience.
A DSLR camera is often bigger than a mirrorless camera. Also, a fullframe camera is always bigger and heavier than a crop-sensor camera.
LENS OPTIONS
Choose a camera brand that has a good range of lens options. This is because, once you’ve invested in a brand and its lenses, it will be hard
and expensive to jump to another brand, as you need to reinvest in that brand’s lenses.
There are four major camera brands with a good range of lenses: Sony, Fujifilm, Nikon and Canon.
CONSIDER USED CAMERAS AND LENSES
Brand new cameras and lenses can burn a hole in your pocket.
However, there are plenty of used cameras and lenses online and in stores. Online platforms like Carousell, Mudah and KLDSLR are great places to get these pre-loved items.
A two- to four-year-old camera can be cheaper by half the price, and some may even look like new.