Imagine you are standing next to a gorgeous landscape. The trees are lush and dew droplets rest upon each bright leaf, as a stunning butterfly flashes its majestic wings. The river is calmly flowing over smooth stones and the sky is a hazy blue as the sun peaks over the mountains.
If you can see this image in your mind it is called “pre-visualization”. However this can lead to frustration, you can see this beautiful image in your mind but the camera you have just won’t translate that into a photograph. This can happen in many situations: while your on vacation, at your child’s graduation, at a family reunion or even when your casually taking pictures for fun.
There is only one solution to this predicament: Its time to buy a “better” camera.
Although, to one person “better” can mean upgrading from a single use camera to a point and shoot, where as someone else that is unsatisfied with the photos being produced by the point and shoot might just realize its time to upgrade to a DSLR.
Now what is a DSLR? This acronym stands for digital single lens reflex. How does it work? the DSLR uses a mirror behind the lens to direct light towards the view finder. Therefore what you see when your looking through the view finder is exactly what you’ll get. Distinct features of these cameras are the ability to change and select from a large variety of lenses and accessories, from wide angle to telephoto, you can even add flash if needed. DSLR cameras deliver the absolute highest quality of all focal lengths (how strong the camera converges or diverges). Another critical feature of a DSLR is the larger sensors it uses. Larger sensors contain larger pixels, which means they are more sensitive to light and therefore are able to gather more light and reduce the amount of noise in an image. This allows for a DSLR camera to create a much more detailed image than a point and shoot camera could.
There are a vast amount of choices in the make and features of a DSLR camera. Some features you may find on a DSLR are adjustable functions like, shutter speed, white balance and aperture.
Before purchasing a DSLR camera here are some things you should consider:
1. Establish how much you are willing to pay for the camera, take into consideration which features you enjoy and are must haves on your list. In what price range do they fall?
2. Research the different brands, look for reviews and ask questions. Go to the camera store and ask specialists to determine exactly which DSLR is perfect for your particular needs.
3. How often will you be using your camera? Do you use photography as a casual hobby or as a means to generate income?
4. Does quality of image matter to you?
