Even in today’s age of Smartphone cameras, the requirement of a feature packed standalone camera cannot be avoided for long. When the a consumer goes to the market today to purchase a camera, more often than not is the case that he or she is overwhelmed by the number of options provided by companies today. The range now comprises of several categories, such as point and shoot, super zoom, digital ILCs (Interchangeable Lens Cameras) and DSLRs. Wanting the best, it is almost becoming a trend for customers to purchase insanely expensive gear, not realizing the long term consequences. The following are key points to consider before making your next camera purchase.
Determine the need for your camera should fulfill
Do you want a go getter for those casual daily clicks? Or do you want something for product/model photography? Do you have specific needs? Will you require and are you ready to invest in lenses? All of these questions will help you decide whether to settle for a point and shoot camera that is basic or advanced, and whether it is necessary to purchase a Nikon DSLR camera like the ones available http://www.camerastore.com.au/digital-slr-cameras/nikon-d. Today’s highly advanced point and shoot cameras are perfectly capable of reproducing professional quality images, and carrying around a bulky DSLR isn’t required like in earlier times.
Do not judge a camera by its Megapixels
Simply put, megapixels amount to size. The higher the number of megapixels, the larger is the print that can be derived from those photographs. But larger resolutions also mean larger memory consumption. And a larger size has nothing to do with image quality. That depends on the sensor. That is why older DSLRs had mere 8 megapixels, yet reproduced excellent quality images. A more correct generalization would be ‘The bigger the sensor, the better the camera’.
Optical Zoom > Digital Zoom
You must’ve avoided zoom on many occasions owing to the distortion and noise riddled images that are created. Several cameras may cite 10X zoom or more. However, it is necessary to understand that there’s a difference between optical and digital zoom. Digital zoom will result in the distortion of images. Optical zoom however, will have no problem with zooming in and out of frames without compromising on quality. Digital zoom is usually the gimmick that companies selling low specs products resort to.
Extras are important
Buying a camera, especially a DSLR, is buying into an ecosystem. Bear in mind that accessories such as camera cases, memory cards, external flash mounts, lenses and other equipment are as important as the camera itself. Ensure that you do not splurge on a camera to such an extent that no accessory can be purchased. If possible, try looking out for bundled deals on digital SLR cameras that are sold separately as packs of filters, bags, tripods etc or if the camera itself has a bundle coupled with it, as is the norm at a good camera store both on and offline.
Read reviews
The easiest way to check on the camera you are about to purchase is simply to check it up online. Numerous websites review cameras and photography gear and offer unbiased opinions on products. Check for problems associated with the camera, as long-term reviews by bloggers who have owned the camera previously provide detailed information on not just mechanical issues, but also customer assistance provided by the company.