Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Case Study 1 : How to Buy a DSLR camera

How to Buy a DSLR camera

Buy a DSLR camera

Purchasing your first DSLR, camera (digital single-reflex lens camera) can be a big decision. Prices have dropped so that amateur photographers and the serious hobbyist can purchase a digital SLR camera body for a few hundred dollars more than a regular digital camera.

How to choose? Which brand, what lenses, how much? If you are a professional photographer- you already know the name, make and model of the next camera, lens, and filter on your wish list and where it is at the best price. If you are reading this, chances are you buying the DSLR as a gift, or are interested in expanding a hobby.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Money
  • Time
  • Research 
DSLRs need a lens
  1. Make a list of what you want in your DSLR and how much you have to spend. For example- how many mega pixels do you want, is video important to you, are name brands important to you, will you expand later?

    Like any technology, purchasing the most advanced- most mega pixels, video, name brand will often mean the most dollars. However, we are not at that stage yet. For now, just make a list of the things that are important to you.
  2. 2
    Do some reading about DSLRS and the current recommendations available on consumer research sites. CNET is great for technology. Read about current models as well as DSLR product reviews.
  3. 3
    Consider your budget. Write down what you are willing to spend on the DSLR, lens, and accessories in total. It is never a good idea to go over the budget.
  4. 4
    Visit a specialty camera store- not a warehouse or electronic store. You will just be looking, leave your wallet at home. Pick up the cameras you have been considering. Hold the digital SLRs you have been reading about. You may be surprised at how large they seem or how different using a viewfinder (not the LCD screen) feels. Different brands may put controls on the right or left hand side which you may or may not have a preference for. Be kind to the salesperson and let them know you are just looking.
  5. 5
    DSLRs need a lens
    Choose a camera. You should have an idea about a brand and camera body that you would like. Now it is time to shop for the correct price and camera body/lens package. If you have limited funds, you can always consider a used or refurbished DSLR body and lens. If you think you will expand your hobby later and want to spend your money on a great lens, you may want to get a used body and shop for a better lens. DSLR kits are available online and in stores that combine the body and usually an average to poor quality lens.
  6. 6
    Shop your prices. Once you know what you want, check online retailers, online auctions, warehouse buying clubs, and local photo stores. Some retailers offer kits that come with extra lenses, filters and cases- which may or may not be worth the price. Check it out!
  7. 7
    Buy your camera and enjoy!
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Tips & Warnings

  • When making any purchase online, check the seller and reviews. Any deal that seems to be too good to be true....
  • Check with your credit card company to see if they offer any warranty for electronic purchases.
  • Make sure to include the costs of any accessories you want in your budget- memory cards, extra batteries, tripod etc.
  • Digital photography can be habit forming.

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