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Choosing a Camera
Author: David Butcher, MSc., BSc.(Hons), LRPS
Far too often I hear of people new to photography that have been sold the first camera that the salesman has pushed upon them. Ideally the photographer should identify what functions they need in a camera to suit their needs best. Naturally, for a beginner that is often difficult because they don't know what to look for.
Here are some of the general functions that should be considered when choosing an SLR camera. An SLR camera is one where you look through the same lens as the camera will use to capture the picture. What functions are available? Lets have a look...
Exposure Modes
There are many different exposure modes found on SLR cameras but MANUAL EXPOSURE is a must for the serious photographer. This is the only exposure mode that gives the photographer full control of the cameras exposure system.
Semi-automatic exposure modes like aperture priority which is useful for landscapes and portraits and shutter priority which is handy for sports and fast moving subjects. You may also find full program modes on your camera which are handy if you are in a hurry. They set everything for you based on what type of subject you are shooting.
Focusing Systems
Of which there are two basic types, Manual and Auto-Focus.
MANUAL FOCUS - All lenses have manual focus, even autofocus lenses but some cameras can only be focused manually. Manually focusing a lens is slower than today's autofocus systems especially for the inexperienced. Not all photographic subjects require the need for auto focus such as landscape and still life. Indeed poor auto-focus systems can be slower than manual focus as they 'hunt' for their focus point. This can happen in poor light or if shooting through glass.
AUTO-FOCUS - For those moments when the photograph has to be taken quickly, there is nothing to beat an auto-focus camera. They are also especially handy for those with poor eyesight. Some auto-focus systems are better than others but only marginally. Auto-focus is the better choice for moving subjects like sports and action photography. For more free tips about choosing a camera plus other photo tips and online photography courses please visit the School of Photography website.
About the Author
David is the co-founder and CEO of the online School of Photography.com in the Republic of Ireland (http://www.schoolofphotography.com) and holds a Licentiateship of the Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain. School of Photography.com has a range of tutor assisted online courses in photography for all ages. The courses are suitable for both film and digital camera users.
