Step 1
Before considering a camera purchase,
one needs to be very clear as regards the ultimate purpose
of that purchase. If a camera is purchased for casual or
candid use, a compact camera or a Smartphone may be the best answer
in terms of choice. On the other hand, if the camera is going to be
used seriously for different types of photography, a D-SLR or a mirror less interchangeable lens camera may be the solution.
Step 2
Is the weight of the camera going to be
a determining factor? If so, you are better off buying a mirror less camera. Mirror less cameras are generally smaller and
lighter than D-SLRs. This is particularly true of cameras which
follow the Micro Four Thirds sensor size. Mirror less cameras
remove the need for the mirror and the prism thereby liberating
both space and weight. Of course, if you need the camera only
occasionally, a lightweight compact camera or Smartphone would
suffice.
Step 3
Is image quality your main object?
An honest answer to this question is very important. 95% of
photographers that we know do not see images in sizes bigger than
7x5 inches or A4 size. For the others, who are quality fanatics, sensor
resolution becomes an all important factor. For such cases, a
camera, whether D-SLR or mirror less with a full-frame sensor is the
answer. A full frame sensor gives much better resolution, far wider
dynamic range and better tonal quality. However, this is likely
to be noticed only if you are to view or print images to large sizes.
A full frame sensor tends to be more expensive. When buying a camera
for ultimate image quality, it is desirable to record in RAW mode.
RAW records more data and gives greater control over image
post capture. Most D-SLRs and mirror less cameras have RAW.
Step 4
Do you need an optical viewfinder? All D-SLRs do come
with optical viewfinders which means that you see the scene
through the lens. Whilst most cameras also come with LCD
screens as viewfinders, it becomes difficult to see the scene clearly
in bright light. A number of mirrorless cameras feature electronic
viewfinders similar to those found in camcorders. The quality
of electronic viewfinders has improved by leaps and bounds
in the last couple of years and today they rival optical viewfinders
in quality. It is also extremely useful to have a LCD screen
that can be fully articulated. Whilst screens from companies like
Canon, Nikon and Panasonic are vari-angle, companies like Sony
opt for a tiltable screen. If you are technology friendly, a touch
screen may prove to be an important attraction.
Step 5
Do you want manual controls? In order
to be really creative with your photography, it is best to opt for a
camera which gives you full manual control. These controls should
also be easily accessible. Fujifilms’ retro-style cameras like the
X100s are good examples of manual controls which are easily accessible.
If you intend to leave your camera in auto mode, an ‘intelligent
auto’ option made available by several brands like Panasonic
may be your best bet.
Step 6
Will you need to shoot in very low
light or in near darkness? If the answer is yes, you need a camera
which supports high ISO speeds and will at the same time reproduce
pictures without much noise. On the other extreme is the area
of action photography where you will need high shutter speeds and an auto focus system that offers quick lock in. For action photography,
cross type sensors with face detection pixels and fast shooting
speeds may be necessary. Remember that some cameras offer
high burst speeds but only at reduced resolution.
Step 7
Are you going to be shooting a lot of
video? With still-cameras offering sophisticated video, the distinction
between still and video cameras has begun to blur.
A number of D-SLRs and mirror less cameras now offer Full High
Definition video. Again, video files can be saved in JPEG or
AVCHD format. If you are serious about shooting video, the camera
you choose must have a port for external microphone and, if
possible, one that offers audio monitoring via a headphone socket. The
best video quality available in the market today comes from Panasonic’s
GH3 followed by the Canon EOS 5D Mark III.
Step 8
Will you need additional lenses and
other accessories? Every manufacturer’s camera system is supported
by a range of accessories. In the main, these consist of lenses
and flashguns. Nikon and Canon have the largest system of interchangeable
lenses for D-SLRs. On the mirror less side, Olympus and
Panasonic have the largest range of interchangeable Micro Four
Thirds lenses. Third party manufacturers like Sigma, Tamron and
Tokina also make a range of lenses but mainly for the most popular
brands like Canon and Nikon. Along with the range of accessories,
one should also review the capability of the manufacturer or its
agents to offer quality after-sales- service, should you need it.
Step 9
Finally, there are a series of other considerations
that you need to answer before you finalize your purchase.
A few of them are listed below:
( a ) Do you want a Wi-Fi function?
( b ) Do you want NFC (Near Field
Communication)?
( c ) Do you need a camera with
weather-proofing? For hot and humid climates, weatherproofing is
very important.
The Pentax D-LSR range with the
exception of the K-500 is weather-proof. Take
the above key considerations into account and you are well on your
way to making an educated purchase
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