[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”no” equal_height_columns=”no” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” parallax_speed=”0.3″ video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” overlay_color=”” video_preview_image=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” padding_top=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” padding_right=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” center_content=”no” last=”no” min_height=”” hover_type=”none” link=””][fusion_text]
So you’ve been thinking about buying a new camera but don’t know where to start? You are not alone.
Purchasing a digital camera is never easy. The best cameras are ridiculously expensive.
Devices you can afford might not have the features you want, and maybe you’re not sure what you want.
This guide will help you find the right camera for your needs without draining your wallet.
Decide on a Budget
There are so many cameras in the market that one of the easiest ways to sort them out is through their prices.
The cheapest devices cost as little as $150. Generally, though, cameras below $500 are categorized as affordable.
With a budget of $500 to 1000, you can find a quality camera from many of the top manufacturers.
From Canon to Sony, Nikon to Leica; all the best brands have a range of decent cameras priced below $1000.
If money is not a deciding factor to you, the best way to evaluate cameras is based on your purpose for them.
Sports cameras, for instance, cost a lot more than point and shoot devices.
So, if you’re a sports journalist, you’ll be forced to shell out the extra cash to get a camera that suits your demands.
Camera Types
Digital cameras come in several designs. Point and shoot cameras are exceedingly beginner-friendly.
Using the cameras is as simple as pointing at an object and taking the photo. They are also affordable, compact, and fit for recreational purposes.
Bridge cameras, on the other hand, feature a non-removable lens and have more controls than a point and shoot device.
Another type, mirror-less cameras, allows you to interchange their lenses but cost much less than DSLR cameras.
DSLR cameras, with a doubt, are the most famous digital cameras out there. They come in all sizes and shapes.
Some are incredibly pricey, while others cost less but offer excellent picture services.
A good camera comparison platform can help you settle on the right device for you quickly.
But to ensure you know what digital camera is right for you, invest your time in learning how different camera types work.
The Four Essential Factors
Professional photographers judge cameras based on four primary criteria: performance, specs, design, and photo quality.
Brand, price, and purpose are all secondary factors.
Many experts also believe most cameras don’t beat their close competitors in all major categories.
As such, don’t get all worked up on finding the perfect camera.
Instead, select a few devices that rank highly in performance, specs, design, performance, and photo quality.
Compare their prices, read their reviews online, and make an informed buying decision.
Something else to consider is that cameras don’t depreciate in quality as fast as smartphones.
Some of the best DSLR cameras came out before 2018. They outperform newer models; they are cheaper and still have the build and design to make them last for long.
Don’t let Specs Deceive you
Everyone wants a camera with the best features. Whether it’s the number of megapixels, sensitivity to light, quality of lenses, or smart features.
We all get great value from the cameras we purchase. Unfortunately, more megapixels don’t always mean better photo quality.
Again, you might not require an overly powerful zoom range.
The best way to find the right camera is to find out what specs you need in a camera.
For instance, you should get a device with a high ISO rating if you want a camera that can take vibrant photos in low light situations.
A camera with a high number of megapixels will probably also deliver impressive pictures but confirm they also have a wide sensor.
For the uninitiated, the sensor is what allows light to a camera.
A wider sensor allows more light, and that leads to overall better quality photos.
The same applies to add-on features like WiFi connectivity, touch sensitivity, and Bluetooth functionality.
Most people also don’t require high-speed cameras. As such, don’t spend that extra $200 for a camera whose features you might never use.
Feel it in your Hands
Go to a physical retail store and test out a few of the cameras you think match your expectations.
Make sure the devices fit in your hands comfortably. Feel the weight and decide whether you want a lighter or heavier model.
Being able to test a camera also allows you to experience its exclusive specs.
For instance, does the camera’s Bluetooth technology work as advertised? Is it easy to change the lenses? Does the touch screen function seamlessly?
Of course, you can always choose to make your buying decision based on online reviews.
Buying digital products on the Internet is much more convenient, anyways.
But to ensure you purchase a device you will live to love, test several cameras physically. You can then make your order online feeling confident you’ll get the right camera.
The Brand to Choose
Everyone has a favorite camera brand. Whether this will be your first camera or one of many, you probably love some manufacturers more than others.
That’s alright as long as you get a top-quality camera.
Some of the best brands in the industry are Canon, Nikon, Sony, Pentax, Leica, and Olympus.
Nearly all companies have cameras to suit different kinds of people.
More precisely, you’ll find multiple models from each manufacturer irrespective of your budget.
Beware of the brands’ strengths and weaknesses before a camera from one of them.
Canon, for instance, is famous producing high-quality, affordable cameras of all types.
Nikon is its closest competitor, but its cameras tend to be pricier.
Although not as popular as Nikon and Canon, Pentax pioneered weatherproof DSLR cameras.
It’s also known for providing great value with their inexpensive cameras.
Sony needs no introduction as its innovative cameras, and premium features set it apart from its peers.
To Conclude
With so many cameras out there; choosing the right device can be challenging.
At times, it’s not easy to know what you should look for in a good camera.
Use the tips shared above to get a quality yet affordable camera.
[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]