How to Find Your Perfect Camera

BY Jenica January 3, 2020

Looking to dabble in photography and need the best bang for your buck? Here are a few tips every aspiring photographer should know before purchasing their first camera.  

Name Your Price  

Professional cameras can be an expensive investment, but picking the right unit is well worth the money. A good camera can last several years and help create countless high-quality photos and videos. Because choosing a camera is such a big decision, it’s important to know what you’re willing to spend. Before you head to the store, decide what you need and budget out your entire camera kit (including the camera, lenses, camera bag, and any other accessories). Once you’ve planned out your purchase, you’re ready to choose your camera.  

What’s It For?  

Do you want something for family vacations? Looking to make photography a part-time job? Or maybe you just have an eye for nature shots. Whatever your goal, be sure to pick a camera suited for the job. The most common types you’ll find are point-and-shoot, DSLR, mirrorless, and action cameras.   

1) Point and Shoot cameras are likely the type you’re most familiar with. You grew up seeing your parents use them at family gatherings and on vacations. These cameras have evolved over time to cover most of your everyday needs.  

2) DSLRs are traditionalist cameras for pros. They range in price from $200-$10,000, depending on what sensors, megapixels, dual SD card slots, or other assets they offer. DSLRs have been around the longest and have the largest selection lenses. 

3) Mirrorless Cameras are relatively new to the market but are quickly dominating the photography scene. These tend to be smaller in size, have an electronic viewfinder, better low-light capabilities, and much more. Since this is a new technology, mirrorless cameras can be pricier than your average DSLR based on lens selection alone.  

4) Action Cameras fit the needs of most adventurers. They’re the perfect companion for everything from trips in the ocean to snowboarding through freshly powdered slopes. The majority of action cameras come with protective framing, keeping them safe from the elements as you prep your epic shots.

What You’ll Need  

A good camera can take great pictures, but accessories make those pictures even better. A common saying in the field of photography is, “Invest in the lenses, not in the body.” DSLRs and mirrorless cameras come with a basic, stock lens to get you started. While these lenses aren’t awful, but they’re not that great either. If you’re wondering where to start, try a ‘nifty fifty’ lens. As a relatively inexpensive lens, the 50mm is the perfect start for your photography venture.  

Regardless of what you pick, cameras are great for capturing and keeping special memories. As you care for them, cameras will hold their value throughout their lifetime. The best part? If you’re wanting to go big and need a little help with your investment, Progressive Leasing partners with several electronic stores to help you get exactly what you need.