The move to digital SLR photography opens up a whole new world of experimentation and growth as the technology and its enabler (the camera) lends it itself to a myriad of photographic opportunities.
However, with a digital SLR the user will also experience a bit of de-automation
– some functionality won’t be available at the simple “press-of-the-button”. So some basic photographic knowledge is required before switching to SLR.
Also, there are quite a number of considerations when buying a digital SLR as it is a sizeable investment and needs to be future-proof.
“Always buy the best possible kit you can afford – don’t opt for a base model because you feel it is the logical jump from a point-and-shoot,’advises Roger Machin, photo video product manager at Canon SA.
“A more expensive model will offer higher specifications that in turn protect your investment – particularly as you grow as a photographer.”
Another important consideration is what one can expect from a digital SLR.
Heinrich Pretorius, Canon product specialist at distributor Drive Control Corporation (DCC) suggests: “Look for a bundled offering that includes a digital SLR, an extra lens, bag and other accessories. These can be quite pricey if you purchase them individually. Fortunately there are great bundled options out there.”
For most enthusiastic photographers the next step after having tested and bought the digital SLR and accessories is to start taking pictures. Here Machin recommends reading up on the basics of your camera. “For example, zoom is no longer automatic and features such as auto focus can be quite tricky if you don’t have some working knowledge of your camera.”
A lot of bundles come with an extra lens, but knowing which one to choose and how to use it introduces another challenge. “A standard lens can be quite limiting particularly as you start experimenting with wider angles or closer shots,” says Pretorius.
“Here, for example it would be good to invest in a wide-angle lens such as the Canon EF-S 18-55mm or a telephoto lens such as the Canon EF-S 55-250mm. Lenses will quickly show you where your skill still needs some work and are critical tools in achieving good photos.”
