Are you considering buying of a high quality camera? A DSLR or Digital Single Lens Reflex camera may be just right for you. In today’s economy, manufacturers are developing more user friendly cameras, at a more affordable price, so an investment like this isn’t as scary as it used to be. Purchasing new equipment requires much to consider though, including the following:
1. Need and Use
How do you plan to use the DSLR camera? Usually, before arriving at a store to shop for a new camera, most people haven’t given careful thought to the purchase, other than wanting to handle what may be on display and comparing the most basic features. Many just plan to “browse.” Sales people know patrons are undecided and really have no idea what they want, so they easily pounce on that. Consider what you plan to use this camera for. Do you need take pictures for work? Are you a photographer and need all the features out there? Do you plan to upgrade in a couple of years?
2. Cost
Now that you have considered what you really need a new camera for, how you plan to use it, what features are necessary and what can you afford, you are ready to shop. Do you have a price range or limit in mind? The store may have a great sale going on at the time of your visit. Or the economy may be helping to bring the prices down on the exact camera you have your eye on. Never settle for the first price you see when it comes to electronics. There will always be huge numbers, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle. Shop around at different stores and ask all the questions you can think of regarding price. Are you paying for a warranty, older model, etc?
3. Size and Weight
What about the size of the camera? When considering the size, the weight also plays into this equation. Most of the larger models are for professional photographers that consider it an honor to adorn themselves with the display of their trade! If you don’t mind the extra weight that goes along with the size, then this might be the right piece of equipment for you, but again, don’t be afraid to ask for something smaller. Even if a smaller camera has less features, determine if you really need them.
4. Flash
The more professional DSLR cameras do not typically come with a flash. A mounting point that attaches to the top of the camera would be the only option. The beginner or less complicated models do include a flash though, so really consider this is you think you want an awesome, high tech, professional camera.
5. Batteries
When purchasing a DSLR camera, one battery usually comes with all the other accessories. It is probably a good idea to purchase an extra battery, just in case.
6. Case or Bag
It is always a good idea to purchase a case or bag for your camera. These items will not only protect your camera from dust or dirt, but also from damage, in case you drop it. When investing in a nice piece of equipment such as this, extending your financial sacrifice a bit further for a carry bag is not that expensive and gives you some piece of mind.
7. Extended Warranty
This is always a controversial part of a big purchase in technology. If you plan to keep your DSLR camera for a long time, it may be a good idea to at least consider the warranty options. Think about what would be worse – splurging a bit now or a lot later. Your financial situation could change for the better or worse in the future, so really think about it.
Rachel Vickers writes about technology, consumer advocacy & saving money at www.backgroundcheck.org
These are great tips! As with all technology, it’s easy to be tempted to buy the latest and greatest, but like Rachel said, know what you need before you even browse so you aren’t won over by sales pitches.
Oh, I’m guilty of that. I’ve learned my lesson with buying technology that I can’t handle. I’ve heard horror stories about people buying cameras too advance for their knowledge.
Awesome tips! If I could add one thing, it would be to seek out reviews. Someone you know who has the camera you want would be great, but if you don’t have that, look for reviews online. Online retailers, photography websites/forums, and even YouTube have tons. I got some honest feedback on cameras I was considering that definitely helped me form my opinion.
I 100% agree. That’s a great tip, T! Thank you very much for sharing your experience. I haven’t bought one yet, but soon…..at least by this summer. *fingers crossed*
Thanks for this post. I have actually been lying in bed, with adult chicken pox thinking to myself, I really want a new camera! Thanks for the info!
OH no, I hope you are better now. I didn’t think you had the chicken pox right now. I thought you had it a couple years ago. OMG, you must be miserable.
If you do buy a camera, let me know what you got!
it’s been over a year and i have yet to get a camera bag. wish mine came with one. i do think it’s really important to protect your investment. i dropped my big soom lens already!!
[oomph.]
OH NO! I’m clumsy too, so I would need to buy a really good bag and bubble wrap! LOL, kidding on the bubble wrap…well, kinda sorta.
I really like your pictures, so protect that camera! LOL
Great guest post! Good tips. I love the camera my BF got me for Xmas but I do wish I had gotten the model with the swing out screen (from his perspective why would I need that but from a blogger perspective, there may be times I want to take a pick looking down…shoe shot, you know important stuff like that). Look at me, camera diva, I don’t even know how to use the damn thing yet.
Off topic but did you see The Avengers yet?
Man, sorry for the late reply! UGH…I feel bad. Anyway, yes, I saw the Avengers. It was good. WELL WORTH the $16 I paid for (I got the Titan XC tickets). Go see it…like right now! LOL
Umm, I never thought about getting the camera with the swing out screen. That’s a great idea! As a blogger stand point, that feature is pretty important.
6. Case or Bag
Extremely important! I once bought a cool, trendy bag for my camera. Ended up with having to spend almost 300 dollars for new camera parts after it fell from a low chair onto the floor (the camera was in the bag, but there was one side of the bag that weren’t good enough).
Brillent idea! You are totally right. I feel like I often forget to save enough money accessories, like a protective case/bag. I’m so concentrated on pay for the camera and SD card, that it slips my mind all the time.
Okay, I’m making a mental note…no fancy/trendy bag, but a great sturdy strong bag. CHECK!
Some really good things to consider. Many of them are quite comparable, and you’re paying more for the brand than anything. I love my Canon, but I have nothing against Nikon or anything; I just don’t know much about other types.
I love canon too! I love the fact that I can use third party lens and the huge variety of cameras available. Plus, it’s reasonable priced and good quality. I also agree that most of our money goes into the brand name, but I believe you get what you pay for.