I get tons of emails and Facebook messages asking me about a variety of photography related things. It's flattering, and I try to answer each one individually. But I also know that I was way too shy to approach most people with questions like these when I was starting out, so I thought I'd just share some on here.
Do you shoot with Canon or Nikon? I shoot with a Nikon. I'd like to say there were a ton of reasons why, but really, it was because my dad had a Nikon D40. And well, why not? I have played around with a Canon for a bit while teaching a friend how to use hers. I think it really all depends on what you start on. I started with a Nikon, so that's what I felt comfortable with. But I bet my friend prefers Canon-- because she's used to it!
So... what should I choose? When going to buy a new camera, as yourself a few questions:
1) What am I using it for?
2) How does it feel when I hold it?
3) How accesible are the buttons I want to use the most?
-If you're wanting to learn the art of photography (things like aperture, ISO, and shutter speed to start with), then you'll want a DSLR (the big camera with an interchangeable lens). These are also good if you have money to throw around & want really good pictures of your kids without knowing anything. :)
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Taken with my Nikon. I'm not much into nature photography, but I almost stepped on this flower walking into my apartment after a session one day. Couldn't help but stop to take a picture! |
-If you're wanting good pictures of your kids but don't really care to learn all the ins and outs of photography, then a good point & shoot will do. I have one of these myself, as well. I use it for almost everything other than my business. If I'm going to the zoo, I take my Kodak Easyshare. The beach? Hanging out with friends? My Easyshare fits snugly in my purse and has a wrist bracelet to hang on to all day easily. It's all I need!
-If your teenager is really into photography & wants to learn more about it, by all means, get them an entry level DSLR. You can pick them up for less than $1000, including a lens & a battery, get them a memory card or two, and also a photography class. Or a book, or there are plenty of websites that teach the basics of photography. I mention this specifically because there were several moms emailing me last year at Christmas. If you think your kid will truly enjoy it, go ahead and get that killer deal-- if it's Canon or Nikon, it's a good camera. If it's others, I can't vouch, but it's probably at least decent.
Feel free to leave any questions you have in the comments! I'll try to answer them in future posts!
2 comments:
Great tips! I do love my canon and for teens who are looking to splurge a little but know they will be invested should get a camera like mine (canon rebel t2i) I really don't think you can go wrong with it's price and quality. :) -Lo
I'm a big fan of the used section at BH Photo Video. I've gotten lenses, flashes, and a film camera that way and they're still holding up.
Being someone who started with film SLRs makes me feel old.
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