Thursday, September 25, 2008

How much do you have to spend to get a really good camera?

I'd like to get a better camera- I currently have a point and shoot- but the quality is not so great.

Emily, how do you take such good pictures?

Any camera recommendations?

1 comment:

Emily said...

My camera is a Nikon D40x, which has been replaced by the D60. We had a really hard time choosing between it and a Canon Rebel Xti, (I think). They were both very similar and someone told me it's a little like the PC vs. Mac debate, or Ford vs. Chevy. It's all a matter of preference. However, I did a lot of research through different websites, I can't recall which right now, but I knew I wanted a Digital SLR. I was tired of not getting the picture I wanted, missing the moment, waiting for a recharge, and the quality looking less than I'd hoped. I do think a good camera makes a lot of difference, but also a good lens. I don't know much about photography other than my own limited experience. But I really like my Nikon and my two lenses. What I like most is the depth of field I get with them and the clarity of the photos. It doesn't hurt that I sometimes use Photoshop too.
You'll spend a lot for a good digital SLR, but there are some good deals out there. Costco sometimes sells packages (camera, basic lens, and zoom lens). But if you buy from Inkley's (as we did) you'll spend more, but get free classes (which I still want to take, anyone interested?), and get some service guarantees and stuff. We were also able to upgrade our zoom lens to a visual stability lens (sometimes with zoom you get more wiggle and less crisp pictures). I'm currently looking into a Macro lens to do some close up work, but those run around $600. That's the other thing. This photo thing is quite an investment. But I look at it this way: no matter what your hobby, your going to be spending a lot on gear. Fishing, mountain climbing, camping, biking, modeling, painting, scrapbooking, etc.. These things all cost a lot to get into. And I've thought that it's been worth it.

You also have to ask yourself how much and for what you're going to use it. It is quite large, harder to lug around and handle, and like I said, a bit of an investment. However, there are some point and shoot models that have excellent features and quality, so if you don't want to go big, those are always good to look into. You can always shop used as well. I really like my big camera. I like holding it, I like being able to have the control on where it focuses and how much. I like that I can get the shot I want and not have to manipulate it too much. And I have a lot to learn, but I really look forward to it.