DSLR cameras: Everything you need to know before buying one

In a world where we are surrounded by cameras, a DSLR camera is still the gadget to get if you are serious about photography. They offer complete creative control and allow for flexibility in the form of interchangeable lenses, flash, and other accessories.

With a DSLR camera, you are also not limited to one type of photography and allows you to unleash your creative self.

The most common aspect of DSLRs known to everyone is their ability to change lenses to capture different moods or meet different needs of photography. From telephoto lenses to capture subjects at a distance to macro lenses to get up close to portrait lenses for amazing portrait shots, the ability is wide and interesting.

However, there is a lot more to a DSLR camera than lenses and here’s everything you need to know before buying one.

DSLR cameras: 5 things you need to know before buying one

A DSLR camera stands for digital single-lens reflex camera, which uses a mirror mechanism to reflect light from the lens to an optical viewfinder and allows users to see exactly what the lens sees.

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When you press the shutter button, the mirror flips to allow the light to go through the digital image sensor. Now that you know how a DSLR works, let’s look at five things you need to know before buying one.

1. Sensor size

2. Image quality

3. Interchangeable lenses

4. Brand factor

5. Video

1. Sensor size

The most important element of your DSLR camera is the sensor size and it is even more important than the megapixel count of your camera. When it comes to DSLR cameras, there are basically two types of sensor sizes: APS-C or full-frame. A full-frame sensor gets its name from the size of its sensor, which matches the size of a 35mm film.

An APS-C sensor, on the other hand, is smaller than a full-frame sensor. A full-frame camera with a 24mm lens will give you exactly that focal length, while an APS-C sensor produces an effect of shooting with a longer lens that you are actually using.

A full-frame sensor is thus preferred by professional photographers whereas a lot of beginners tend to choose a DSLR with an APS-C sensor because of its affordability.

2. Image quality

The common misconception is that the megapixel count dictates the image quality of your DSLR. However, it is a combination of sensor size, the megapixel count, and the lens connected to your DSLR that defines the image quality.

The general thumb rule is that the higher the megapixel number, the better the image resolution, but most DSLRs now offer enough megapixels to meet most of your requirements.

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In addition to a good sensor, enough megapixels, and a sharp lens, your camera should also pack a powerful chip for image processing to reduce the grainy appearance of images.

It should also support high ISO sensitivity so you can shoot at ISO 1600 at night or in low-light scenarios. In a nutshell, image quality is not dependent on one attribute but on the complete camera system.

3. Interchangeable lenses

One of the common mistakes people make when buying a DSLR is they get one with the kit lens. A better approach would be to buy only the body and then choose a lens that best suits your requirements. If budget allows, I would recommend getting a prime lens and a lens with medium zoom for flexibility. Since DSLRs allow you to change lenses, it is best to have a diverse set of lenses to get the best result with the same camera.

4. Brand factor

Before buying a new DSLR, the first question people ask is which brand they should go for. There is no right or wrong answer here but you will be left to choose between either Nikon or Canon.

Both Nikon and Canon are the leaders in the DSLR space and they continue to offer excellent models whether you are a beginner or a professional photographer.

There is a difference in how Nikon and Canon process colours but each of them carry a wide range of lens options and other camera accessories.

ALSO READ: Photography ideas to try with your new DSLR

You should choose a brand with a proven track record in making DSLRs, able to offer superior processing and a vast selection of lenses. Also, look at their prices before choosing one over another.

5. Video

While DSLRs are primarily known for their still photography, some models are quite capable of shooting high-quality videos as well. If you are someone who is going to shoot a lot of video, it is recommended that you look at frame rates and audio recording control. You should also look for an option to connect an external microphone to record audio.

In addition to these features, you should also look for autofocus points, battery life, support for faster memory cards, Wi-Fi support, and whether the DSLR is built to last for several years.

With a DSLR, you are choosing a tool that can last for years without requiring an upgrade if you build a good arsenal of lenses to shoot in different situations.