DSLR cameras provide the largest image sensors and they can, therefore, produce images of great quality. With interchangeable lenses, they provide the user with entrée to the world of flexible photo shooting options that allow him/her to compete with the pros. Moreover, if the thought of numerous controls intimidates you, you should not worry with DSLR cameras.
Manufacturers are now offering DSLRs that just involve pointing and shooting – just like the digital cameras. Therefore, if you are already tired of the point-and-shoot or the camera your smartphone provides low-quality photos, the following tips should help you select the best DSLR camera.
– The lenses
When selecting a DSLR camera, you should not forget about the lenses. They are the most important tools. Because your DSLR choice will affect the lens you go for directly, the lens selection should be your first step. Consider your currently held lenses and check whether they would fit on your target DSLR. Lenses are an important investment.
– The sensor size
The market offers two primary image sensors sizes in DSLRs – the APS-C and full frame –, which have their benefits and drawbacks. Also known as cropped or DX-format sensors, APS-C-sized sensors are among the commonest sensor sizes found in mid-range, entry-level and professional grade DSLR cameras. The sensor size is smaller than that of the full-frame sensors, which the manufacturers based on 35mm film-frame area – around 36×24 mm. The small size provides a narrow field of view, particularly when using constant focal length lens to shoot scenes. APS-C-sized sensors are ideal when shooting sports, wildlife, and situations that require long focal lengths.
– Ability to change the lenses
Point-and-shoot cameras feature general-purpose lenses. On the other hand, the market offers a wider range of DSLR’s lenses. With Nikon lenses, you will always get impressive results.
– The quality of images
DSLRs have bigger sensors than the point-and-shoot cameras. You should, therefore, expect faster speeds, less noise.
– Focus and shutter speeds
DSLRs acquire focus faster and take many shots per second. If you have ever attempted to capture flying birds with your point-and-shoot camera, you possibly know that the task was hard. The reason behind that is that the cameras do not have good focus.
– Ability to see what you are shooting
Manufacturers use reflex mirrors to make DSLR cameras. Therefore, you should see through the lenses clearly and not through a small hole in your camera. That is important in the long telephoto lenses because you can adjust the focus like you are using binoculars.
– Control of the camera
Even though most of the new point-and-shoot cameras have adequate manual controls, DSLRs offers you with more control over the camera. With a DSLR, you should be able to customize the focus points and ISO in addition to creating custom layouts.
Photography is about how you capture the pictures, not about the photography gear. You should, therefore, be more creative to produce quality images. After buying the DSLR, you will need an external flash unit, a tripod and circular polarizing filter. Speciality lenses will allow you to produce various types of photography. Stay updated to date on trending gadgets and before you buy.