I recently had a reader ask me my opinion on cameras — specifically whether he should spend the cold hard cash to buy an SLR camera.
So, I thought it might be a good idea to take a second and talk about the pros and cons of upgrading one’s photographic equipment.
Step 1: To SLR or Not?
Single-Lens Reflex or SLR (sometimes DigitalSLR, DLSR) cameras are the current standard for professional photography. If you go to a football game and notice all the photographers along the sidelines; they are using SLRs to shoot the game. Often, these cameras are bulky and they always require the extra purchase of lenses. They are unlike a point and shoot camera in that they offer fully manual control and a wide range of photographic possibilities because of their interchangeable lenses. In short, they are the most powerful type of camera you can own — offering complete control over your image.
Now, with great power comes great responsibility. If you are the type of photographer who wants to take better pictures, you might want the responsibility of learning how to use your SLR. But if you want to simply point and shoot, an SLR isn’t for you. Another responsibility is cost. SLRs usually start at around $1000 and lenses can cost anywhere from $100 to thousands of dollars. Cost is the number one hurdle when it comes to expanding to an SLR.
If you think you’re ready, hop on to step 2.
Step 2: Where to Start
The nice thing about SLRs is there is a wide range of products to choose from. And, because Nikon and Canon (the two major SLR makers) have recently rolled out top-of-the-line products, some of the basic SLRs are dropping in price.
If you have made the decision to jump into the SLR world, I highly recommend the Canon Digital Rebel XTi.
The XTi was my first SLR camera and I had a blast learning about SLR photography using it. Because it is Canon’s prosumer SLR, it has all the major technical features a high-end SLR has, but it is also a little easier to handle. Plus, its small size really is nice. If you shop around, you should be able to find a complete XTi kit for between $400 and $800. As a first SLR, the XTi offers a great platform to learn on and an even better price point. The kit should include one small lens that is nice to start with. But, if you’re investing in an SLR, go big or go home, right?
Step 3: The Lens Question
So, you think you want to buy an SLR. Get ready for a new addiction. Once you start to buy lenses, it’s hard to stop. But, you don;t have to go serious lens shopping right out of the gate. The first thing you will want to do is upgrade from the included lens. My advice is to start with a “walking around” lens.
A good “walking around” lens is key for any photographer. As the name suggests, a “walking around” lens is the type of lens you can use in any situation, the type of lens you throw on the camera and go on a walk with.
For about $50, you should be able to find a 28mm-80mm lens. You can use eBay or another online store, but I really suggest heading to your nearest Ma ‘n’ Pa camera store. usually the folks in locally owned shops are helpful when it comes to picking out lenses. A nice 28mm-80mm lens is the perfect place to start; a little zoom, a little power.
When you do look for lenses, make sure the lens can fit and function with your camera. Even a lens made by Canon might not work with your Canon camera. So make sure to check. You don’t have to buy Canon lenses, either. There are a number of good third-party lens makers. And for cost reasons, if you are experimenting with SLR photography, I suggest going third party until you feel comfortable with your camera.
Conclusion
Overall, I think everyone should be using SLRs. If you have even a slight interest in taking better photos, and SLR makes the whole process fun and exciting. Nothing beats a day out and about with a camera. If you are willing to spend arounf $500-$800 to start a new hobby, I know you won’t be dissapointed with a nice new SLR.
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