Getting in to DSLR Photography

Recently I was asked for advice about getting in to DSLR photography.
The following questions were raised…

Nikon or Canon?

Even though I’m a Canon shooter I’m not going to take sides here. Choose the camera that suits you the best, try out a friends camera or go down to your local camera shop and ask to try out different models.

When considering a model evaluate the ergonomics – does it feel right in your hands? Check out the menu system – is it easy for you to navigate around?

Also consider what manufacturer makes your friends and families cameras – this is an important factor as it may give you the option to borrow different lenses in the future- which could save you a lot of money.

Stick with the kit or get a body and lens separate?

3-4 years ago when I bought a Canon 400D I went for the lens kit option (18-55mm). Looking back now I wish I had just got the body and a 28-135mm IS lens as I needed the extra range, as I took mainly travel photos back then.

However now there is a greater choice of kit lenses available today for the entry level camera range, but be prepared to spend a bit more money.

Here a few examples….

• Canon 500D Digital SLR Camera (incl. EF 18-200mm Lens Kit)
• Canon 450D IS Double Zoom Kit (EOS 450D Camera, EF-S 18-55mm IS f/3.5-5.6 Lens & EF-S 55-250mm IS f/4.0-5.6 lens)
• NIKON D5000 + AF-S DX VR 18-55mm Lens + AF-S DX VR 55-200mm Lens + SLR Camera Case + SDHC Ultra II 8 GB Memory Card + EN-EL9 Battery + All-in-One Memory Card Reader Consumer SLR camera Digital camera Bundle
• Nikon D90 Digital SLR Camera 18-105 VR Kit

A Canon 500D Body Only with a Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens would be my choice of camera and lens if I were just getting in to DSLR photography.

What is the best way to learn about DSLR photography?

There are plenty of ways to learn more about photography, the most effective method of learning I have found is by accepting that when you take pictures to be open to positive criticism – you can learn a lot from it!

Looking at other photos will also help you become better by appreciating what makes a good photograph.

Below is a list of resources I’ve found helpful over the last 4 years.

• Books
  • Scott Kelby’s Digital Photography Boxed Set: v. 1, 2 & 3
• Podcasts
  • Photofocus
  • The art of photography
  • Photoshop User TV
• Websites
  • Phototuts
  • Photofocus
  • Canon Professional Network

What do I need to know about memory?

Buy a good brand!

Its not worth the risk in saving a few pounds for increasing the chance of losing your photos, believe me I’ve been there. Now I only buy top grade memory – I recommend the following…

• Lexar 8GB 133x Professional SD Card
• SanDisk Extreme III SDHC 4GB Card

Tags: DSLR, Photography (All)

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