Cameras

If you’ve been looking for ways to take your photography to the next level, chances are you’re already considering a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera. In recent years, the cost of entry-level DSLRs has gone down considerably, making them an affordable alternative to compact digital cameras.

At this point, anyone who wants to get the most bang for their buck should be making the switch to a DSLR to enjoy benefits that render most other camera types obsolete.

While the ongoing growth in DSLR manufacturing has given us an abundance of options to choose from and the resulting competition has undoubtedly lowered prices, unfortunately, the excessive variety can make for a difficult comparison if you don’t know what to look for.

Luckily, you won’t have to put in hours of research to make a fully informed decision, because we’ve put together this comprehensive guide containing everything you need to know about DSLRs that introduces you to the best models on the market:

 

Best Overall DSLR Cameras

With Nikon and Canon dominating the DSLR scene, it’s no surprise that the top 3 overall options come from these renowned brands:

 

Nikon D5

The top of the line Nikon D5 isn’t cheap, but if you’re looking for the best of the best it certainly deserves consideration. With a 20.8 MP FX-Format CMOS Sensor and continuous shooting with full AE and AF performance at the rate of 12 frames per second, Nikon’s  flagship full-frame model can snap up to 200 shots within a single burst.

It also includes professional video features and the ability to record in 4K Ultra High Definition. The newly redesigned AF technology features 99-cross type sensors, 153 individual focus points, and a dedicated processor. To top it all off, it has a wider native ISO range than any other full-frame, which can be expanded beyond its default max of ISO 102,400 all the way up to ISO 3,280,000.

 

Canon EOS 5DS

The Canon EOS 5DS is known for having the highest resolution of any full-frame DSLR, with approximately 50.6 megapixels and a maximum continuous shooting speed of 5 frames per second. Intended for expert users, this beast of a camera is equipped with a full-frame CMOS sensor, a 3.2-inch viewing screen, and excellent dynamic range. Many pros consider this model to be a breakthrough in DSLR technology because it manages to pack an absurd amount of pixels into the sensor without compromising quality thanks to its unmatched resolving power and anti-aliasing cancellation filter.

It couldn’t take the top spot because it’s not capable of recording in 4K, it generates very large files, and requires the best lenses money can buy to achieve its full potential. Still, if you get past these minor caveats, it’s by far the best alternative to Nikon’s D5 in terms of picture quality.

 

Nikon D500

If you can’t afford the flagship D5, Nikon’s D500 provides a more affordable alternative with many of the same features. Most of the important perks are retained in this slimmed down version, however it uses a 20.9-megapixel APS-C instead of the full-frame CMOS used by it’s more powerful sibling.

Still, it can record video in 4K and it uses the same 153-point AF/99 cross-type autofocus system, which is known to be the best on the market. If a full-frame sensor isn’t a necessity for you, the D500 offers a well-rounded package that’s great for wildlife and action photography.

 

Best DSLR Cameras For Beginners

When choosing the best DSLRs for beginners we considered factors like ease-of-use, comfortable design, and affordability, which led us to these three selections:

 

Nikon D3300

The Nikon 3300 is widely known as a perfect beginner’s DSLR thanks to its lightweight, compact design and self-explanatory controls. Despite being small and handy, it is equipped with one of the best sensors in its class, boasting an impressive 24.2-megapixels and 1090/60p HD recording capabilities.

There’s also a built-in WU-1a wireless adapters that lets you easily send content to your smartphone. Quick and easy editing features, simplified file sharing, and 5 fps continuous shooting speed make this an optimal choice for anyone looking for a beginner-friendly DSLR.

 

Pentax K-50

Coming in as the first brand other than Nikon and Canon on the list, the lesser known Pentax K-50 has been making waves as a strong competitor to the two aforementioned cameras. It has the lowest megapixel count in this category, but negligibly so at 16.3 MP.

Nonetheless, it makes up for this slightly by having the highest frame rate at 6 fps, which makes it slightly better for wildlife, sports, and other action photography. The 3-inch touchscreen, 30 fps recording rate at 1080p, PRIME M image processing engine, and built-in shake reduction system are other nice features that make it ideal for a beginner.

 

Best Canon DSLR

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Although technically the EOS 5D Mark IV has a lower resolution than the incredible 50-megapixel 5DS, since we already listed that one as one of the “best overall DSLRs,” this one easily takes the runner-up position. With a 30.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, a 61-point AF/41-cross type Autofocus system, and a 3.2-inch touchscreen, this camera is easily Canon’s best DSLR next to the aforementioned 5DS.

However, being that it’s about half the price of Canon’s actual flagship, many would consider it to be better for the average photographer who doesn’t have an unlimited budget.

 

Canon EOS 7D Mark II

In addition to having a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMS image sensor, the EOS 7D Mark II also has an exceptionally high frame rate, with 10fps continuous shooting and a pro-grade 65-point AF, 65 cross-type autofocus system, this camera offers excellent action photography.

It’s also highly durable with weather-sealed controls and an alloy body. Overall, the EOS 7D Mark II is highly versatile and is known for being one of the best deals in the Canon line.

 

Canon EOS 1D Mark II

With a high frame rate of 14 fps, a large 3.2-inch LCD display, and a highly flexible Autofocus system that includes 41 customizable AF points – 61 total, the Canon EOS 1D Mark II deserves mention as one of the brand’s top three cameras next to its flagship EOS 5DS.

Although the CMOS sensor can only capture 20.2 megapixels, it’s equipped with hardware that gives it all the bare necessities a DSLR needs in the best way possible. The resulting images are always impressive and this camera does a great job of reducing noise even in the worst conditions.

 

Best Nikon DSLR

Nikon D810

If you’re looking for the absolute best Nikon camera, that would be their flagship D5 listed in the “best overall DSLR” section above. However, coming in 2nd behind that would have to be the D810, with a desirable 36.3-megapixel HDSLR sensor and the powerful EXPEED 4 image processor. This is a professional grade camera that is known for remarkable detail retention and a wide native ISO range of 64-12,800.

The D810 won the Imaging Resource “Camera of the Year” award in 2014. Another interesting thing to note is that Nikon makes a version called the D810a, which is the first DSLR designed specifically for deep-sky astrophotography.

 

Nikon D750

With a full-frame 24.3MP DX-format CMOS sensor, EXPEED 4 image processor, and a special Vari-angle tilting LCD screen, the D750 offers most of the same features as the D810 but with a slightly smaller sensor.

Built-in WiFi, 1080p video recording, and a 6.5fps frame rate make this a well-balanced choice for enthusiasts looking for flagship-level performance in a more affordable package. The D750 won Imaging Resource’s “Camera of Distinction in 2014” for basically being the next best thing to the D810.

 

Nikon D7200

The D7200 comes in as close behind the D750, with a 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor and the same EXPEED 4 image processor. Surprisingly, it has a wider native ISO range, expanding all the way up to 25,600 while also having an Auto ISO mode for easy operation. This one is categorized in Nikon’s line of “enthusiast” DSLRs, which sits just below what you would expect from a professional level camera. This was also the brand’s first DSLR to feature built-in Near Field Communication (NFC) and WiFi connectivity.

The time-lapse feature, 1080p recording, and a frame rate of 6 fps make this an ideal choice for someone who wants the best equipment for their hobby but isn’t ready to commit to a larger pro-level purchase.

 

Best Professional DSLR Camera

If you’re talking solely in terms of megapixel count, nothing beats the 50-MP Canon EOS 5DS in the consumer market, but as the pros know there are lot of factors other than megapixel count that go into making the best all around camera.

Plus, some of the best professional cameras are far outside of the budget of most enthusiasts, so that lack of affordability was taken into consideration when deciding not to include ultra-high level models on the list of the best overall DSLRs. However, if price really isn’t a concern and you’re looking for the best pro DSLRs to add to your arsenal, check out these for starters:

 

Hasselbad H5D-60

With an industry-topping 60-megapixel sensor, the Hasselbad H5D-60 beast of a DSLR costs more than the down-payment on a house, and is widely known as one of the industry’s “pro-only” cameras. The chances of someone other than a professional photographer buying this are slim to none, which makes it perfect for the top spot in this section.

 

Pentax 645Z

The Pentax 645Z is a model that is the secret weapon in the bags of many professionals thanks to it’s ability to capture incredibly high-resolution images that are ideal for large prints such as posters and billboards. The 51.4MP CMOS sensor is protected along with the rest of the camera’s components by 76 waterproof seals and a magnesium allow body. The frame rate sits at only 3 fps per second, so it better serves as a specific option within a collection rather than a go-to all-around option for consumers.

 

Canon EOS-1D Mark II

Pros who specialize in action, sports, and wildlife photography often reach for the EOS-1D Mark II thanks to its incredibly high frame rate of 14fps, which gives up to 170 images per blast to work with. Speed like that ensures you never miss a shot even when the scene is packed with motion and noise. Simply put, there are few if any DSLRs that are better than capturing moving objects.

 

Best DSLR Camera For Video

If you’re looking to purchase a camera solely for the purpose of recording high definition video, you’ll probably be interested in features like recording frame rate, ease of steady aiming, 4K capabilities, and other similar perks that will help you capture and render the best possible videos. If that’s the case, look no further than the following three models:

 

Canon EOS 1D-C

If you’re searching for one of the most versatile and powerful 4K cinema DSLRs on the market and cost is not a factor, look no further than Canon’s EOS 1D-C. The C in its name stands for “Cinema” and indicates just how robust and accurate this model really is.

The 18.1-megapixel CMOS Sensor isn’t the industry’s largest but it’s capable of achieving True 4K cinematic recording quality. You also have the option of recording in 1080p with the DIGIC 5+ image processor. The 3.2-inch LCD display and 61-point high-density Autofocus system make this in ideal option for capturing action scenes in 4K.

 

Canon 80D

With a 24-megapixel ASP-C CMOS sensor and 45-point all cross-type Autofocus system, the 80D allows you to capture incredibly detailed shots using the optical viewfinder in various focus area modes. The 10x digital zoom and 7 fps continuous shooting mode make it ideal for action photography as well as flexible 1080p recording. You’ll have to enable the RAW image capture option to get most out of the camera’s large sensor.

Another thing that makes this model optimal for those new to HD recording is that its popularity has caused the appearance of numerous tutorials online showing you how to adjust the camera’s settings for high-quality video. The ease-of-use, popularity/user support, and relative affordability make this an obtainable yet desirable option for 1080p recording.

 

Canon EOS 5D Mark III

With a remarkable 61-point High-Density Reticular Autofocus system, a 22-megapixel full-frame CMOPS sensor, and an incredibly wide native ISO range extendable up to 25,600, the EOS 5D Mark III is ideal for wedding photography and capturing incredibly detailed videos. You can record at 30fps in 1080p or at 60fps in HD (1280 x 720), so it’s capable of capturing action-packed footage without blurriness. Although it doesn’t have 4K recording capabilities, it may just be the perfect option for anyone who doesn’t mind that one shortcoming.

 

Best Compact DSLR

Whether your hands are small or you’re just looking for ultra-portability, compact DSLRs can be desirable because they’re easy to handle and stow away in any situation. Regardless of your hand size or camera storage preference, we can all admit that smaller and more lightweight frames are easier to aim accurately. With that said, here are the three best compact DSLR’s on the market:

 

Nikon D5200

At 1.22 pounds it isn’t the lightest model available, but the Nikon D5200’s frame is very small and the bit of extra weight is actually due to it being constructed with durable materials. The slight heftiness makes it sit steady during the shot as well, so some find it to be the best of both worlds – sturdiness and ease of handling. The 39-point Autofocus system, 5 fps continuous shooting frame rate, and 1080p 30 fps recording capabilities give you a lot of bang for your buck within this small yet flexible package from Nikon.

 

Canon EOS 750

The EOS 750D comes with a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. The included Scene Intelligent Auto mode make this perfect for a beginner or someone who’d rather automate settings adjustments on the fly. Built-in WiFi and NFC connectivity make this compact DSLR as convenient to connect to as it is to handle. A wide range of shooting modes and effects give you plenty of control within a small, easy-to-handle frame.

In fact, at first glance this model looks similar to a compact digital camera, yet with DSLR technology built in. Hybrid CMOS Autofocus III makes it easy to track movement and maintain focus while recording action scenes in 1080p.

 

Pentax K-70

The Pentax K-70 is not only super compact and well-designed for ergonomics and handling, it’s also completely weather-sealed and dustproof. The Vari-angle LCD display makes it easy to capture content at tough angles. You could easily mistake the K-70 for compact digital given its size alone.

It’s a bit heavier than the other two compacts listed above at 2 pounds. If you’re looking for a durable, weather-resistant, and easy to clean model in a frame that can comfortably fit in your grip, the K-70 is a great option.

 

Best Entry-Level DSLR

If cost is an issue and you’re looking for the cheapest DSLRs that still come with great features, an entry-level model like one of the following might be a good fit:

 

Canon Rebel T6i

This is the entry level selection of Canon’s Rebel line and at under $1000 it’s a commendable value with a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and a 19-point Autofocus system. A frame rate of 5 fps for continuous shooting makes it a doable choice for action photography and the ability to record in 1080p is an added perk.

With no 4K recording and a native ISO range of 12,800 (expandable to 25,600) this one isn’t the most robust DSLR but it hits the spot for any enthusiast searching for an entry-level option.

 

Pentax K-S2

The K-S2 from Pentax has a 20-megapixel filterless ASP-C CMOS sensor and surprisingly it can record video in Ultra HD (UHD) resolution. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest DLSRs to feature 4K capabilities. It’s a decent action shooter as well with a continuous shooting frame rate of 5.4 fps.

Another advantage that this model is known for is ease of carrying and steady aiming. It also has an impressive 100 separate weather seals that make it dustproof and cold proof. The specs seem almost too good to be true for an entry-level option from Pentax.

 

Canon Rebel SL1

The Canon Rebel SL1 is one of the best in terms of cost-effectiveness, but the downside is that it doesn’t have the best Autofocus system with only 9 AF points and a single center autofocus point. The 18-megapixel ASP-C CMOS sensor lets you know this is still a bonafide DSLR despite its low cost.

The 3-inch touch panel LCD is what you’d expect for a camera of its size, and the 1080 HD video recording gives it the minimum resolution need to suffice this section of the market.

 

Best Full Frame DSLR

Full frame 35mm equivalent sensors are larger than their APS-C sized counterparts, giving them the ability to capture more detail. Furthermore, their larger lenses allow them to produce a brighter image within the viewfinder. To go a step beyond the conventional full frame size, you’d have to be willing to spend much more for a medium format DSLR camera. Here are three of the best full frame, larger-than full-frame, and medium format DSLRs available:

 

Hasselbad H6D-50c

If you’re a professional looking for the best of the best in the sensor department, it’s hard to compete with Hasselbad’s 50-megapixel, larger-than-full-frame (43.8 x 32.9mm) CMOS sensor. This thing is the opposite of compact at 4 pounds and it should only be considered if you’re a professional who is prepared to commit to a huge purchase.

Surprisingly, it does not feature 4K filming capabilities, but the native ISO range is incredible at 100-204,800.

 

Leica S2-P

Despite being a lesser known brand than Canon, Nikon, or Pentax, Leica has made a huge impact on the full-frame DSLR market with their S2-P, which features a 37.5-megapixel camera and a larger-than-full-frame sensor that is approximately 60% bigger than a 35mm equivalent (full frame). This is not a great option for action photography with a frame rate of only 1.5 fps, but it’s a leader in the large-format print, high-resolution niche.

 

Nikon D610

The strong point of the D610 is its full frame 24.3-megapixel sensor and 39-point AF system with 9 cross-type points. It has a larger-than-average LCD display at 3.2 inches and the viewfinder is exceptional with 100% coverage. At just under 2 pounds it could be considered a compact DSLR as well.

In many ways it’s similar to the Nikon D810 so it’s a top option for anyone who is basing their choice solely on the sensor being full frame. It gives you the 35mm equivalent sensor at a price that’s more reasonable in the sub-$2000 range.

 

Best DSLR Camera Under $500

If price is a concern, you’re probably looking to stay under a certain price point. Here are three of the best models you’ll find in the sub-$500 category:

 

Nikon D3400

Sitting just under $500 is Nikon’s D3400 with a 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor, EXPEED 4 image processor, and an impressive native ISO range of 100-25,600. This is also an ideal choice for the enthusiast, hobbyist, or home photographer because it can automatically share with up to five smart devices.

It comes with a DX NIKKOR 18-55mm kit lens that utilizes a stepping motor to ensure super quiet autofocusing that doesn’t disturb audio being captured by the built-in mic.

 

Canon EOS Rebel T6

Although the Rebel T6 bundle will cost a little bit more than $500, the camera alone fits narrowly into this price range since the IS II kit can be found for around $400. When you consider how much value you’re getting in such a bundle, with 18-55 mm lenses and a number of other important accessories, this is a model that could easily have fit into the best entry-level DSLR category as well.

 

Best DSLR Camera Under $1000

If you’re looking for something that is a little bit better than entry-level but won’t quite break the bank, the $500-$1000 range is a good fit, particularly the following three cameras:

 

Canon EOS 70D

The Canon EOS 70D has a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with a 19-point cross-type AF system with DIGIC 5+ and up to 7 frames per second shooting speed. The native ISO range reaches up to 25,600 and the dual pixel CMOS AF system for live video makes it easier to focus quickly, stay focused on the important areas, and capture maximum detail in every scene.

The 3-inch articulating touch panel LCD display puts everything at your fingertips in simple fashion. All around, the EOS 70D covers everything you’d expect to get in this price range and then some.

 

Nikon D5500

The D5500 sits a bit lower on the price spectrum yet manages to pack a 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor. Surprisingly, it also has a 39-point autofocus system and a native ISO range of 100 – 25,600. It manages to outdo Canon’s 70D in those areas, but it has a slightly slower frame rate at only 5 fps, so it’s not the best at action shooting.

There’s also built-in WiFi and it easily interfaces with smartphones for simplified sharing and editing.

 

Nikon D7100

Despite sitting at the bottom end of the $500-$1000 price range, the D7100 is worth mentioning for its impressive 51-point Autofocus system with 15 cross-type points. Combine that professional grade AF system with a relatively fast frame rate of 7 fps and you have a camera that is perhaps the best bargain for sports, wildlife, and action photographers.

The 24.1-megapixel DX format sensor is comparable to some of the best you’ll find in this price range and even in more expensive models. The robust Effects Mode and dual SD card slot are other notable perks. And if you want a few upgrades, you might consider the newer D7200.

 

Best DSLR Camera Under $2000

At this point in the list we’ve already listed quite a few of the best DSLR cameras, so there aren’t many notable models left to mention, but for what is remaining, the following three are by far the best buys under $2,000:

 

Pentax K-1

With a 36.4-megapixel AA filterless full frame CMOS sensor, an Autofocus system loaded with 33 AF points, and a built-in GPS, Compass, and Astro Tracer, the Pentax K-1 is a feature-rich option at the top of the sub-$2000 range. It has a unique shake reduction feature that reduces the likelihood of blur. It also has 87 separate weather seals to protect the hardware from the elements.

The hefty frame weighs about 2.2 pounds and is easy to get a firm grip on, while the operation assist lights make it easy to see the controls in dark environments.

 

Canon EOS 6D

Canon’s 6D lives up to the well-rounded enthusiast-level quality we’ve come to expect from the EOS line, with a 20.2-megapixel full frame CMOS sensor. The native ISO range is also incredibly wide at 100-25,600. Equipped with the DIGIC 5+ image processor it’s just as responsive and powerful as some of its more expensive siblings in terms of processing speed and noise reduction.

The downside is that it has a pretty limited autofocus system with only 11 AF points, only one of which are cross-type. However, the AF system does feature EV-5 sensitivity, which makes it surprisingly effective in dim lighting situations.

 

Pentax KP

Other than the K-1 listed above, the KP is the best Pentax camera for under $2000. All models from other brands like Canon and Nikon that could have been listed in this price range are already placed in one of the other sections above.

With a respectable 24-megapixel ASP-C  filter-less CMOS sensor and a remarkably high ISO sensitivity of 819,200, the Pentax KP offers a lot of value in a package that currently sells for about a grand in new condition.

 

Pick One That’s Right for You

Ultimately, there is no DSLR camera that is a one-size-fits-all, so the decision should be based on which features you’re most interested in and/or the limits of your budget. Some people may find price and ease of use to be the most important factor, while others are after the most advanced model within their budget.

With the categorized lists and tips above we’ve given you all the info and model names needed to make a choice you won’t regret. Regardless of what you’re after, you now have a strong foundation from which to start your search.

 

Advantages of DSLR Cameras

Let’s review some of the advantages that make DSLRs vastly superior to other camera types. In a nutshell, they’re typically better in almost every performance category, including but not limited to: speed, picture quality, control, lens compatibility, filter usage, and recording – pretty much everything you’re looking for in a camera. With that said, here’s a detailed list of the specific advantages DSLRs offer:

1. Superior Speed and Responsiveness – If you’ve been using a digital compact camera then you know just how frustrating it can be to deal with the delays that often cause you to “miss the shot.”  Most digital compacts will take a  few seconds to snap the picture because they take about 1 second to start up, a second to lock focus after the shutter release button is pressed, and another second to take the shot once focus is locked.
2. Better Picture Quality – DSLRs can use a variety of lenses that consistently outperform those used in digital compacts. They also use much larger sensors – about ten times larger in many cases. These two factors allow them to produce better images even when capturing fewer megapixels. As a result, it’s common for a 10-megapixel DSLR to outdo a 14-megapixel digital compact in many scenarios. The difference between the two is profound but is easiest to notice in low light conditions. In basic terms, DSLRs contain image sensors that are much more sensitive to light, allowing them to pick up more details in noisy/dark environments. Furthermore, they feature a larger number of ISO settings that can be used to customize how much light is captured by the sensor based on the conditions of the scene you’re photographing.
3. Better Recording Quality – Since DSLRs have larger imaging sensors and better lenses, they’re able to record better video content than compact cameras. In fact, in terms of quality they can now compete with many of today’s HD camcorders with only a few exceptions. Most camcorders can record up to 2 hours of content at a time, whereas DSLRs typically have a 30-minute recording limit. However, digital compacts also have the same time limitation. Camcorders also usually offer better manual zoom control as well as better audio recording control, so there’s no denying that they’re optimal for recording long stretches of video, but DSLRs manage to strike a balance between taking pictures and recording video while maintaining quality on both ends.
4. Interchangeable Lenses – Although digital compacts typically include a single lens, DSLRs offer complete versatility because they’re compatible with a wide range of lenses. Ultimately, this makes them capable of covering much broader focal lengths, so you can fit more content into the shot or focus in on a small aspect of a scene more accurately.
5. Complete Control Over Settings – One of the main perks of digital compacts is the automated controls. There’s no need to select specific settings before taking a photo, because the hardware assesses the scene and does that for you. However, this lack of control can be a bad thing when you’re trying to achieve certain results.
6. Using Filters in Real-Time – DLSRs are also some of the only cameras that can use filters to change the appearance of a scene as it appears before the shot. In the tips section below we list the essential filters every photographer should have in their arsenal.
7. Unlimited Creative Freedom – Perhaps the biggest advantage DSLRs offer is the scope of creativity they can facilitate. Many pros rely on them as go-to gear because they can accommodate every shot regardless of the conditions.

Features to Look for in DSLR Cameras

Of course, if’ you’re on this page you’re probably already convinced of the benefits of owning a DSLR, and are now more interested in learning about the key features to compare. Although each model has its strong points, in general the following features are the things you should be paying consideration to:

 

Sensor Type and Size

Since this component plays the essential role of capturing light which then becomes your image, perhaps the most important feature in any DSLR camera is its sensor.

There are two main types of sensors used in DSLR cameras: Complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) and charged-coupled device (CCD). Of the two, CMOS sensors are more common and are themselves good enough to get the job done for most photographers. However, CCD sensors are known to produce higher quality images, but they also require more power and they’re more expensive than CMOS sensors.

Sensor size is also a key consideration, even though the megapixel count isn’t necessarily the most important feature on the camera. A larger sensor means the camera can capture more detail within a single shot. Many DSLRs have full-frame sensors (35mm equivalent) which are currently the industry standard, but there are some medium format cameras that have “larger-than-full-frame” sensors.

 

Frames Per Second

The number of frames that can be captured within a second is called the frame rate. A camera with a frame rate of 10 frames per second (fps) will capture more frames within a second than a camera that captures 5 fps. Cameras with higher frame rates (5-15 fps) are known to be better for action, wildlife, and sports photography. A lower frame rate means you’re more likely to encounter blur and/or miss the shot when the subject is moving quickly.

 

Included Lenses

Most DSLR bundles will include a lens kit, with lenses ranging from 18mm to 55mm. In addition to the kit that comes with your camera, it’s a good idea to learn about the various available lenses and how they can be used to improve your photography. You’ll want to expand your collection with ultra-wide angle zoom, telephoto zoom, and macro lenses just to name a few.

 

Megapixel Count

As you may already know, a megapixel is 1 million pixels, so a camera with a 20-megapixel sensor is capable of capturing 20 million pixels. In most cases, having more megapixels is an advantage. However, if you’re shooting with a lens or camera that outputs to a smaller format or has a smaller sensor, too many megapixels can make the image look grainy because of an excessive amount of megapixels being crammed into a small space.

In general, if a camera has more than 15-20 megapixels, that should be sufficient to create stunning HD imagery. Cameras that can capture up to 40-50 megapixels or more are mostly ideal for creating medium to large format photos.

 

Image Processor

The image processor handles the crucial task of processing the data captured by your camera’s sensor. A faster processor will allow you to take more pictures within a set amount of time. A powerful processor ensures responsiveness and speed, both of which are incredibly important attributes then you’re trying to capture a very specific moment.

Each brand has its own proprietary image processor, so it’s difficult to compare them with each other, but your best bet is to at least aim for a recent generation. For example, Canon’s EXPEED processor is available in their D5 camera as EXPEED 5 and in the D810 as EXPEED 4. Those would be ideal choices compared to an older model that is equipped with EXPEED 3.

 

Autofocus System

The Autofocus (AF) system gives you on-screen focus points that you can move around to select areas of the viewfinder that will carry the highest focus priority. The more Autofocus points an AF system has, the more likely it is that you’ll be able to capture your subject in focus even if they’re moving around a lot.

Even though a 9-point AF system is good enough to perform basic action photography, if you want the best of the best you’ll want to look for a camera that has an AF system with 30 or more points. Also pay attention to the number of cross-type sensors an AF system has – more is better.

 

Wi-Fi and Other Connectivity

Ideally, you’ll want to choose a camera that can easily interface with your smartphone via Wi-Fi or Near Field Communication (NFC). Unfortunately, some models are a bit behind in the connectivity department, but there are plenty of affordable options that include this basic feature. You also have the option of equipping a camera with a Wi-Fi-enabled SD card if it doesn’t have a built-in WiFi adapter.

 

Bonus Tip: Start By Buying the Body Only

One way to save money and build up your gear gradually is to go for the “body only” camera deals and then later purchase lens kits and other upgrades. You’ll notice it’s possible to get the body of the camera by itself for a couple thousand cheaper than it would be to buy an entire kit outright. This is typically the best option if you already have an extensive kit that will be compatible with your new camera or if you just want to get the ball rolling on a budget.

 

Tips on How to Use a DSLR Camera

Once you’ve made your selection, don’t assume that your choice alone will cause you to become a master of photography overnight. Without the operator having the right knowledge and expertise, even the best camera in the world can’t live up to its potential. Here some tips you can use to make sure you’re getting the most of your DLSR:

1. Take a Photography Class – Perhaps the fastest way to become familiar with the the tricks of the trade is to simply enroll in a photography class or take one or more online courses. Of course, general photography knowledge will be useful to you no matter which model you select, but to go beyond that you’ll need to heed the other tips below as well.
2. Understand Lenses and Filters – Once you’ve got a firm grasp on basic photography principles and tips, it’s time to learn about the best filters and lenses for DSLRs. Unless it’s a body only model it should come with at least one “kit lens.” Be sure to look beyond the kit lenses and into other types like macros, wide angles, prime lenses, and telephoto zoom lenses. Every good photographer knows that you can wind up spending the same amount if not more on your lenses and filters than on the actual body of the camera itself. If you want to get the best shot every time under any circumstances, becoming familiar with an arsenal of lenses and filters is imperative.
3. Practice Routine Cleaning – Moisture, oils, dirt, and other miscellaneous filth can accumulate on the surface of your lenses and other parts of the camera. This can become a problem for sports, wildlife, and nature photographers who frequently expose their cameras to the elements. There’s nothing more frustrating than pulling out your camera to catch a great shot only to be let down because your equipment needs to be cleaned before it can perform. You stare into the viewfinder and recognize the dreaded glare or smear that completely ruins your hops of a decent photo. Avoid this common problem by practicing routine cleaning and proper storage.
4. Control the Aperture – A great way to put the focus on a specific object or spot in a scene is to use the aperture control settings in your DSLR to adjust the size of the opening that allows light to reach the sensor. Doing this lets you change the depth of field (DOF) from shallow to deep. A shallow DOF will give you a smaller range of focus while a deeper DOF gives you a wider focus area. The final result of the aperture adjustment will depend on focal length setting, sensor size, and how far you are from the intended subject. Research and practice aperture adjustments to hone the skill of placing focus on specific areas and you’ll be able to give your photos a more realistic and 3-dimensional look. Making your subject the primary focal point lets you devote the camera’s full resolving power to the area that you want to highlight the most.
5. Use Shutter Priority Mode – Any action, sports, or wildlife photographer should learn how to use shutter priority mode to achieve different effects when photographing fast-moving objects. A fast shutter speed – like 1/2000 – lets you capture action-packed scenes without any blur, while a slower shutter speed – like 1/125 –  gives you a relatively clear shot but with a slight touch of motion blur. Keep in mind the shutter speed will also affect your DOF, as the camera will automatically calculate aperture based on the shutter speed you’ve selected. Although slower shutter speeds do create some motion blur, some photographers prefer this in certain shots because it helps illustrate how fast the object is moving while also creating a deeper DOF.
6. Save Presets and Priority Settings – If you’re regularly photographing similar scenes or environments, chances are you could save yourself a lot of time and expand your creative capabilities by saving priority settings as programmed presets. Then, if you find a particular exposure or aperture setting that has worked well for you, you can easily save it and try using it, or an adjusted version of it, later on.
7. Take Advantage of HDR – If you’re trying to create stark and stunning contrast, utilizing the High Dynamic Range (HDR) feature in your DSLR camera should be the first lesson on your list. This setting actually causes the camera to take several separate photos with different light settings for each. The separate shots are then automatically layered and saved as a single image. Using HDR is particularly helpful when photographing large landscapes, portraits in sunny conditions, or in places where the background or main focus area needs to be brightened without washing out contrast. However, HDR may not be ideal for photos that contain movement, scenes that are already very high in contrast, and scenes that contain a lot of vibrant colors.
8. Record a Video and Use the Stills – Sometimes the best route to take when you want to capture more than just a moment is to use the record function. Almost all DSLRs can record in 1080p Full HD and some can even record in 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) resolution. Thus, you have the option of recording not only to produce videos but also to have a full archive of footage from which you can pause and select frames/snapshots to be exported as photographs.
9. Use Continuous Focus for Action Scenes – If you’re struggling to get a clear picture of a fast-moving object in an action scene even though your DSLR camera has a decent frame rate, you might be neglecting the highly important continuous focus feature. In this mode, you start by framing your subject within the on-screen focus box and then half pressing the shutter button, at which point the camera begins tracking the subject’s movement and automatically adjusts focus accordingly. This is useful when your subject is moving rapidly away from or towards the camera, or when they’re frequently jumping out of your AF points.
10. Save and Share Files in RAW Format – Most DSLRs are set to save and export images in JPEG format even though they’re capable of saving in RAW format. When you’re saving photos as .jpeg format you’re loosing some resolution to the compression that takes place. Shooting in RAW mode ensures you’re exporting the original image of the highest quality.

 

Other Useful Miscellaneous Tips

Aside from the key considerations above, here’s a list of other quick tips you can use to get the most out of your DSLR:

• Surprise subjects by shooting in quiet mode – capture the moment without disrupting it.
• Try different focus area modes
• Use the interval timer to create cool time lapses
• Experiment with built-in effects and filters – get to know what your hardware can do.
• Use the histogram to find the perfect exposure for follow-up shots.
• Upgrade to a larger memory card.
• Obtain a top-notch lens kit and specialty lenses
• Try shooting in full manual when you’re confident you don’t need the camera’s AI.

 

Don’t Forget to Read the Manual!

We know it can be difficult to read through every page in the lengthy manual of a DSLR camera, but if you want to really master your craft and use the device to its full potential, reading the instructions is a mandatory step.