What type of camera should you buy?
This is a loaded question, so bear with us. Firstly, ignore megapixels. Instead, focus on the physical size of the imaging sensor; this is what has the biggest impact on image quality and, yes, bigger is better in that regard. With that in mind, there has never been a more diverse landscape of cameras, which is great news provided you can sift through all the noise and find the one you really need. For the sake of simplicity, let’s look at two broad categories: compact and interchangeable lens. Compact cameras (or point-and-shoots) are a good choice if you want something that’s easy to keep on your person without bogging you down. While some larger-sensor models exist, most are built around small sensors and retractable zoom lenses. If the size of a compact appeals to you but you want to make sure you’re getting better image quality than your phone, look for a camera with at least a 1-inch sensor (Sony RX100 series, Canon G7 X, Panasonic ZS100, etc.). As larger sensors “see” more light, they work much better in low-light situations, where smartphone cameras tend to be miserable. These higher-end compacts also offer full manual control and other advanced features not usually found on cheaper cameras. If beating your phone’s image quality isn’t your concern, then go for a camera with features that fit your needs, like a long zoom lens for shooting wildlife or waterproofing if you want to take a camera snorkeling, for example. Speaking of zooms, a common misconception is that larger, interchangeable lens cameras can zoom in farther. In fact, the opposite is usually true. With a small sensor, a much longer zoom lens can be fit into a much smaller space. There are point-and-shoots with 20x, 30x, and even 60x zooms that are light enough to hold in one hand. To achieve that kind of zoom power in an interchangeable lens camera is completely infeasible; the longest telephoto lenses that do exist for such systems are fixed focal length (or prime), meaning they do not zoom. They are also huge, weigh many pounds, and cost thousands of dollars. Digital SLR Cameras |
Entry Level DSLR The big benefit of a DSLR is its versatility, it is a great option for casual photographers looking to improve their photography skills and even parents who want a fast-acting, autofocusing, don't-want-to-miss-that-shot camera to capture their kid's big moments. For many photographers, there’s simply no substitute for a good all around optical viewfinder. Optical viewfinders provide a clear view of your subject in any lighting conditions, and don’t have any image lag as do electronic viewfinders on mirrorless cameras. Again, this is especially handy when shooting fast-moving subjects. |
Mid Level DSLR The differences are too many to list down among so many models, but the major difference between an entry level and a mid level DSLR would be the build quality, weather sealing, Autofocus module, viewfinder size ,faster frame per second and easy access controls like dual dials. The sensors are almost always the same. The major difference between a mid level and a pro level cameras would be the Sensor size. The low light performance and dynamic range in the Pro series Full frame cameras , would blow away the mid level cameras.
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DIGITAL POINT AND SHOOT CAMERAS
Available in a wide range of models, from basic to true professional-grade, point-and-shoot cameras aren't just for novices. From rugged cameras for adventure seekers to premium models that offer impressive performance in an ultracompact package, there's a point-and-shoot camera to fit almost any need. The largest segment of the digital camera market, point-and-shoot models are compact, easy to use, and typically take great pictures with minimal effort. You simply press the shutter button, and the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed, aperture, focus, and light sensitivity to capture a clear image with optimal color. Unlike Digital SLRs which offer larger image sensors, more manual control and interchangeable lenses, point-and-shoot cameras can often slip into a pocket, and are typically less expensive. Deciding to buy a point-and-shoot camera is the simple part, but with hundreds of models with varying price points and feature sets to choose from, selecting the best one is no easy feat. Follow these rules to find the right compact digital camera When cameras were making the jump from 2-3 megapixels to 4-5, it was a matter of discussion. But now, with point-and-shoots starting in the 10-megapixel range and climbing as high as 16 megapixels, it's a moot point. Very few of us are going to make prints large enough to take advantage of all those extra pixels. Sensor size is much more important. Putting too many pixels on the smaller image sensors (which are generally 1/2.3" when measured diagonally) found in compact cameras, can actually hurt camera a camera's low-light shooting performance. Some compact cameras have larger image sensors, in the 1/1.7" range, but these are usually aimed at enthusiasts and are priced accordingly. If top-notch image quality in a compact package is an absolute need, no matter the cost, consider one of these larger-sensor compacts like Canon G series Cameras. |
Point and Shoot Cameras Slim, lightweight and pocket-friendly, these cameras offer a step up in image quality compared to most smartphones. Optical zoom lets you capture more detailed close-up photos, and faster shutter speed reduces blur on action shots. The larger image sensor and lens of a point-and-shoot also capture better photos in low light. Some of these cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing. Benefits:
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Point and shoot Waterproof Cameras If you need a camera that can withstand shock from drops or freezing temperatures, invest in a shockproof or freezeproof camera. Although the toughness and durability of these cameras makes for a slight increase in size and weight, the payoff is a camera you can take almost anywhere, without worrying about accidental damage. For the best all-terrain protection, get a camera that boasts all three of these features together – waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof. A camera this rugged will be tough enough for almost any adventure. Benefits:
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Long-zoom cameras Point and shoot If you want to get close to the action or zoom in on distant subjects while traveling, a long-zoom camera gives you the flexibility you need for shots at almost any distance. Long-zoom cameras feature at least 10x or greater optical zoom, with some models featuring 20x or greater optical zoom. The longer the zoom range, the closer you can zoom in on details from far away. For example, a camera with 10x optical zoom might allow you to frame the silhouette of an old barn from a distant hillside, while a camera with 30x optical zoom would allow you to frame the weather vane on the barn's roof. Benefits:
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Advance Point and Shoot.
Advance Point And Shoot Cameras
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Lens Buying Guide
Things to consider when purchasing a camera lens.
Selecting a camera lens will often be dictated by how far you can stretch your budget but there are also a number of practical considerations to bear in mind.
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FOLCAL LENGHT
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Focal length is often the first set of numbers included in a lens' title and is measured in mm. As a reference, the human eye has a focal length equivalent to 30-50mm.
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Maximum ApertureMaximum aperture is an indication of how much light the lens can gather. It is quite common for a zoom lens to have two maximum aperture values, one for either extremity of the focal length. Aperture size usually follows the lens' focal length in its title (18-55mm F3.5-5.6).
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Type of Lenses
Standard Zoom LensesHugely versatile, standard zoom lenses are usually the first port of call for a budding photographer. If you purchase an APS-C camera that comes with a lens, it is very likely that the lens will be a standard zoom lens somewhere in the region of 18-55mm F3.5-5.6.
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Prime LensesA prime lens is one with a fixed focal length. Although zoom lenses tend to be more popular, there is still a case for prime lenses. They tend to be smaller, lighter and faster, meaning outstanding results in low light.
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Ultra Wide LensesWide angle (24-35mm equivalent) and ultra wide angle lenses They are characterised by a wide depth of field and fisheye distortion when used in extremis.
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Telephoto zoom lensesTelephoto lenses (ones that exceed 80mm equivalent) allow users to shoot far away subjects with detail and clarity. They are often the second lens to be added to a budding photographer's kit.
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All in one superzoom lenses
Wouldn't it be nice if you could get the advanced handling and image quality of a system camera, without the chore of lugging a big collection of kit around with you? That's where superzoom lenses come in. They aim to deliver standard and telephoto zoom capabilities in a single, space-saving package - but it's not just about keeping the size and weight of your gear to a minimum. Superzooms have long been popular for their versatility. It's great being able to react quickly as shooting opportunities arise, zooming from wide-angle to telephoto and everything in between at the flick of a wrist. You'll avoid the frustration of missing shots altogether because you were too busy changing lenses. Another bonus for the digital age is that, without needing to swap lenses on the camera so often, you can greatly reduce the risk of dust and muck being dumped on the image sensor. |