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selecting the picture-perfect camera

You know the moment you’ve gone beyond the capabilities of a point-and-shoot camera: It feels just like the time you reached for sixth gear on car that just wasn’t giving you the performance you wanted. It doesn’t take long for amateur photographers with an eye to reach for the added flexibility and control of a 35mm Single Lens Reflex camera.

Unlike the separate viewfinder of a point-and-shoot, SLR cameras have an angled mirror and prism to show you exactly what the lens is viewing, so you can monitor the image and see precisely the situation at hand.

But that’s just one major benefit. The ability to adjust, in and of itself, is the rest. With an SLR, you can change lenses, take manual control over focus, aperture and shutter speeds – all in the name of the perfect picture.

Take your time when you’re shopping for your first SLR. Talk to other camera owners and ask about their preferences. Then pick up every camera in the display case, and find the one that feels most comfortable in your hands. Unless you want complete and utter control, you may like the convenience of a model that offers aperture-priority mode, so you can let the camera set the shutter speed automatically depending on the aperture you select. Built-in flash and auto-focus are other nice features that bridge the gap between SLR purists and point-and-shoot convenience lovers.

Options, options, options
1. Lenses

  • Start with a medium zoom lens, such as 35-80mm or 80-135mm and a telephoto 100-210mm.
  • Consider the advantages of a versatile 24-35mm lens too.
  • A 20mm lens can add an exaggerated perspective and depth.
  • Double the length of your lens with a 2X converter.

2. Filters
Consider the shots you plan to take most often and talk to professionals at a camera store about what filters might work best for you. Here are a few of the most commonly selected filters:

  • A standard polarizer removes glare and reflection for enhanced sky color.
  • Single-color filters add that particular color to your shots, but be aware of how that color can change the mood of the image.
  • Color correcting filters enhance certain colors to make them pop.
  • Select a neutral density filter to reduce the overall brightness of a scene so you can control your aperture.
  • A split-field neutral density filter helps to reduce the contrast between a bright sky and a shady foreground.
  • A red or yellow filter can add contrast when you’re shooting black-and-white film.

3. Flash
Many cameras include a built-in flash, but consider a hand-held flash if you shoot a lot of interiors, such as family gatherings and portraits. You’ll be glad you have a flash outside on overcast days too.

4. Case, caps and strap
No matter the size or style of the bag you choose (shoulder strap or backpack), be sure your camera case is well padded.

  • Look for adjustable compartments so your lenses are well protected and outside pockets for easy access to additional film.
  • Consider buying a second “working bag” that fits around your waist so you’ll have fast access to just a few key lenses and filters as you shoot.

Always protect your fragile lenses (that means all of them!) with front and rear lens caps.

If you like to have your camera at the ready, choose a wide, well-padded strap. But be sure you protect your lens with a cap if you keep it around your neck or shoulder.

Quick tips

  • Take the charger with you everywhere if your camera uses rechargeable batteries.
  • Always keep a spare rechargeable battery on hand so you don’t miss a shot.
  • Keep your lenses clean with a soft lint-free cloth, special dust-free tissues, lens-cleaning fluid, and a blower brush.
  • Also stock your bag with a pair of tweezers (for small items that might get lodged in the camera) and a small screwdriver for anything that comes loose during travel.
  • Carry your old point-and-shoot or a disposable camera with you too for quick snapshots that don’t require the control of your SLR.
  • Keep a notebook of your shots. This will be helpful during the early days of using your new SLR as you see the results of different settings, lenses and filters. Plus, it’ll help you remember details of the people and places you shoot.
  • Mono pods or mini tripods are a practical alternative to hefty tripods – and less expensive.


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