On Buying a New Camera
Often I’m asked what camera would I recommend. With so many great cameras on the market, my advice is always the following:
- What will be you be doing? Children? Nature? Vacations?
- Are you looking for convenience, an all-in-one model or a DSLR with interchangeable lenses?
- Do you need a camera that is rugged and/or water resistent?
- Do you want a system that will allow for your photography growth over time?
- How will the camera interface with your computer? Do you want a camera that will give you RAW images or just jpgs?
- What is your budget? If you haven’t narrowed it down you will soon.
- Now, go to a camera store that has a wide selection and hold the different cameras you might purchase. Experience how it feels in your hands. Are the controls placed well? Is it comfortable?
- What is the warranty?
- Is the camera model new or has it been available for some time? You want the latest model.
- Is the manual readily understandable, clearly written and indexed?
- Now you are an informed consumer!
Hints & Tips
A tip for public speakers: when at a lectern, if you need reading glasses, buy a frame-less pair. This type will not intrude into you eyes. Also, when you first settle behind the lectern, look around, spot the photographer and smile!
A tip for photographers: check the lectern microphone location. If it is a pair of mics joined in the middle, there is nothing to consider. If it is a singular mic mounted on one side of the lectern, shot from the opposite side so the mic doesn’t distract from the speaker. Also consider if you should ask the sound technician to have the mic moved to the other side of the lectern to accomodate your angle of view.
Photo of the Week
Lincoln Memorial and US Park Police Officer after snow storm
