Is it time for a DSLR?
Are you thinking about upgrading from a point-and-shoot camera? Do you want more features and more control over your photographs?
A basic digital SLR (DSLR) is a good place to start.
Basic digital SLR cameras are easier to learn how to use because they have have fewer controls, fewer options, and easy-to-read graphic readouts.
Advanced SLR cameras have more options and are more durable but you pay for those features in weight and bulkiness.
Pay More for Performance
You get what you pay for.
When it comes to taking photos, we advise spending a little more money in exchange for quality performance.
Minimum Best Image Quality ISO
Look for a camera that can shoot at least 800 ISO without affecting image quality. So what is ISO and why should it influence your decision?
A camera with a high best quality image ISO will allow you to take photos in low light conditions without sacrificing image quality (the Nikon line of camera's are well known for being good "low light" cameras because of their high best quality image ISO values).
Don't Run Out of Juice
Battery life is another big consideration.
I once had to drive from the Grand Canyon to Flagstaff and back because the cold weather reduced my battery life to about 10 minutes of shooting. Look for an SLR with a healthy battery life of about 400+ shots per battery charge.
Think About Lenses & Accessories (Before Marrying Your SLR)
When you buy a digital SLR, you are not just buying the camera. You are also buying into the lenses and accessories associated with your camera.
You can buy off-brands, but the manufacturer's lenses and accessories are made to fully utilize the features of your particular camera.
Review the lenses, external flash units, and accessories before selecting a certain make of camera. In fact, I bought a particular digital SLR camera because I fell in love with several of the lenses offered by the manufacturer.
Initial Research: Low Light or Normal to Brighter Light
If you need a low-light camera, you might want to start your research with the Nikon line of cameras. I'm not saying to rush out and buy a Nikon, just start checking them out.
If you will be shooting in good light conditions and need a very wide-range of tonality (dark, medium and light - think about trying to capture sunlight beaming into a cathedral filled with dark wood) you might want to start looking at the Canon line of digital SLR cameras.
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