How to buy a DSLR

Despite the obvious disadvantages of a DLSR (a.k.a. size and noise), there are numerous advantages. Prices of entry level DLSRs have come down significantly to the point where they are in reach of the average photographer.

The main advantages for using a DLSR include:

1. Better image quality – Larger sensor size and higher ISOs with lower noise allow for better images
2. Versatility – can use a host of lenses and accessories to improve creativity and images
3. Optical Viewfinder – You get what you see
4. Speed – In general, DLSRs are faster in every way than a Point and Shoot
5. Manual Controls – Better control over the process allows you to get what you want
6. Depth of Field – The versatility allows for those nice blurred backgrounds so the focus is on your picture’s subject
7. Better Optics – Optics for DLSRs overall are superior to those found in Point and Shoots

So what are the important factors you should consider when buying a DLSR?

1. Budget – Your budget will help dictate what you can get right now versus later. On advantage of a DLSR is that you can upgrade or expand you camera as your budget allows.
2. Intended Use – The major intended use will help dictate some of the physical attribute. For example, will you be using it for travel (lightness and size), sports (faster lenses and longer zooms) or macro photography (will need specialized macro lenses).
3. Resolution – Though Megapixels aren’t everything (as mentioned in my first article), in the DLSR world, the higher the Megapixels, the more it will generally cost you. However, the higher megapixels will be noticeable as you get into the larger sized enlargements.
4. Sensor Size – Generally, the larger sensors produce superior images to smaller sensor sizes. The terms full size sensor and crop sensors come into play here. More on that in a future article.
5. Legacy Gear – If you have old gear from a previous camera, particularly lenses, it may be usable on a new DLSR, thus decreasing you overall new expenditure.

By volume, Canon and Nikon are the two leading manufacturers of DLSRs today. When purchasing, your budget is a key factor since DLSR systems are infinitely expandable. Camera bodies and lenses are sold separately (though many “kits” (aka Bundles) are available). If a tradeoff has to be made due to limited budget, my advice would be to invest more in the lenses and less in the body. Optical quality ultimately defines the image quality and is something you’ll be able to use for a long time. The body on the other hand is very much like today’s computers, newer models with expanded features are constantly being released so prices of today’s body generally decrease.