Everything you need to know about a DSLR
Buying a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera is a natural step for anyone who is a photography enthusiast. Afterall, there exists an undeniable link between a camera and photo quality. A DSLR is a camera that offers manual control of photography settings to ensure you get an image clicked exactly the way you pictured it in your mind. Yet, considering the high cost of most DSLRs, knowing which camera to settle for maybe a tall task for an amateur. Additionally, the wide variety of camera body options and lens types may add to the existing confusion.

How important are megapixels?

• One of the primary advertising points of any camera is the megapixels it has to offer.
• It is important to note that more megapixels are only useful if you plan to print a large-size image.
• If your requirement is a basic A4 size printout or less, you do not need a camera with more than 10-megapixels. Anything more will simply take up space on your memory card.

How important is it to upgrade from the kit lens for a camera and photo output?

• All DSLR cameras come along with an 18-55mm basic kit lens. This starter lens is great for a beginner, but it does have many limitations for specific zoom, portrait, and fish-eye shots.
• Upgrading the kit lens will help you do much more with your DSLR settings.
• Within two or three months of figuring out your DSLR, consider investing in a prime lens for bokeh and portraits and a zoom lens for wildlife photography.

Do I need to invest in any accessories?

• While budgeting for a camera, do remember to include the cost of accessories.
• Most DSLRs come without any additional accessories save for an extra memory card and a lens wiping microfiber cloth.
• Photography accessories are not cheap and yet, they are essential for the impact as well as the performance of the camera and photo output.
• Some of the common accessories to consider include additional lenses, external flash, tripod, memory cards, lens filters, waterproof camera cases, and lens shades.

Should I purchase a DSLR online or from a store?

• These days, online websites offer reliable and genuine products at much bigger discounts than the brick-and-mortar stores.
• However, if you are a first-time DSLR owner, going to a store will make the process of purchase easier as a salesperson may help you understand the working of the camera.
• You may get a hands-on experience of using different cameras before you decide on the one that you are most comfortable using.
• Also, it is a smart move to visit a store, try out various options, shortlist one, and then buy the same camera model online at a cheaper rate.

Do customer reviews play a vital role when buying a DSLR?

• A DSLR has fixed functions. So, like most, you may wonder how customer reviews impact which camera you should go for.
• Customer reviews help you decide if you want the best DSLR for a niche type of photography (such as underwater marine life) or if you want a popular DSLR for everyday use.
• Moreover, customer reviews also help you understand how friendly and genuine the website or store you are purchasing from is.
• Sometimes, customer reviews may even go as far as mentioning the name of a friendly salesperson who explains things well and offers some complimentary goodies too.

What are some good entry-level DSLR cameras to consider?

• The Canon EOS Rebel T5i is an 18-megapixel device with ISO expandable up to 25,600 and HD video recording.
• The Nikon D3300 offers 24-megapixel image quality with ISO expandable to 25,600 and 1080p HD video recording.
• The Sony A 58 is also a popular choice offering a 20.1-megapixel camera ISO expandable to 25,600 and full HD video recording.