By Amit Thakur
Imagine this scenario: You walk into a store with the intention of buying a camera but with no clue on how to pick one. So you do what you think is the best; rely on the salesman advice.
If its sounds familiar then you are not the only one as going about picking the right camera can be confusing; if you aren’t prepared. Photography is indeed a field which has something to offer everyone. Whether you simply love gadgets or like capturing images, there are cameras out there to match your every need.
But with some many mind boggling options out there, how do you agree which one is best for you?
Before picking up your credit card and going ahead and shopping, ask yourself these important questions first:
- What will you primarily need the camera for?
- What kind of photography will you be doing? ( causal, portraits, landscape)
- What conditions will you be largely shooting in? (indoors, outdoors, low light, bright light)
- Do you want to study photography or prefer the auto mode?
- How important is size and lightness to you?
- What’s your budget?
Once you have figured out the answers to the above questions, it’s time to apply the 6 rule of buying a camera.
1. DSLR or Point or Shoot?
Yes, DSLR’s are getting more affordable everyday but it’s not meant for everyone. Yes, do look more professional but keep in mind that they are bulkier and harder to maintain (if you are changing lenses) and can be slightly more complicated to operate than point and shoot.
2. Megapixel
Megapixels on a camera are very important in the final effect of a photograph. The number of megapixels will decide how many details a camera can capture on every shot and will also affect the image size and resolution. Simply put, go for a higher megapixel for sharper images.
3. Optical Zoom
Need a camera for shooting wildlife, nature or birds? Then it’s very important that you opt for a camera with a high optical zoom. Optical zoom truly move you closer to the subject of the photograph without surrendering quality. The higher the optical zoom rating on a camera, the farther away you can be to take a photograph and still get a clear, close-up image.
4. Type Of Battery
No matter how expensive or fancy your camera is, it won’t matter if your battery keeps dying. To avoid situations like this, always go for rechargeable batteries. It’s not an exaggeration that rechargeable batteries are a crucial part of any photographer’s equipment. None of those remarkable DSLR’s and attractive lenses are of any value without them.
5. Storage Memory Card
Last but not the least, memory cards play an important role in storing your precious cards. Though your camera may have some in built memory, it won’t be enough so opt for larger memory card.
What After Purchase?
It’s not just enough that you bought your dream camera; you must take care of your purchase as well. Always keep the camera in its case / cover when not in use. Avoid touching the lens as it will affect the quality of the photograph and always keep the camera away from moisture. And yes, keep a backup just in case. You don’t want to lose all the photographs you took on your recent holiday now, do you?
An advertising cum fashion photographer based in Mumbai, Amit Thakur has been a part of the industry for almost a decade and has shot for many major brands and fashion magazines. You can take a look at his work at www.amitthakur.net
