You are thinking about buying an SLR camera, but you have not quite known which model to choose. Do not worry, you are not the first person to face such a dilemma. Not in vain, it is a choice for life. To make your task easier, we have prepared this complete purchase guide.
In it, you can learn the most important aspects of the exciting world of SLR cameras. Thus, you will discover all the advantages they offer and, of course, also their disadvantages. In addition, we will provide you with a series of purchasing criteria so that you can make a decision with the maximum possible information.
The most important
- SLR cameras allow you to take higher quality photographs than compact cameras since they offer greater control over the different parameters to configure when capturing an image. However, they are much more complicated to handle and their price is also higher.
- Given their magnificent features, they are ideal for both photography enthusiasts who have advanced knowledge and for those who wish to start professional photography.
- As much or more important than the body of the camera is the objective that you use. Often, the objective that comes standard with the camera does not stop being pretty basic equipment, so that over time it is recommended that you acquire one of better quality.
Shopping guide: What you should know about reflex cameras
When buying a DSLR with flip screen, it is essential that you take into account a number of important issues. Do not forget that there are different reflex camera models and that each one is designed for different use. For this reason, in this section, we propose to answer the most common questions of buyers.
What exactly are reflex cameras?
SLR cameras are a type of camera with which it is possible to observe directly the scene to be photographed through an optical viewfinder without a parallax error. This error occurs when the image displayed by the viewfinder does not match the focused image.
SLR cameras are characterized by having a mirror that reflects (reflex, hence the name) the light that enters through the lens and transmits it to the optical viewfinder by means of a prism. Its main advantage is that what is seen is what will appear in the photograph. In addition, they also allow capturing images of higher quality.
How does a reflex Camera Work?
The basis of SLR camera operation is a mirror that tilts when the photograph is shot and that is what defines the path that light can take within the camera. Under normal conditions, the mirror in front of the shutter is tilted 45º, diverting the light to pentagrams and from there to the viewfinder.
When the photograph is taken, the mirror is placed horizontally and allows the light to pass to the sensor. At that time, the lens diaphragm is closed and the shutter is opened to allow the sensor to be exposed to light. Subsequently, the shutter closes, the diaphragm reopens and the mirror returns to its initial position.
What are the advantages of reflex cameras?
SLR cameras offer a series of important advantages over other types of cameras. For starters, they usually have a larger viewfinder than compact best bridge camera or CSC (compact system cameras). In this way, with them, you can take pictures with higher image quality. Another point in their favor is that they have interchangeable objectives.
In addition, they allow you to configure the parameters manually, so you will have more control over aspects such as shutter speed, aperture, ISO and white balance. Also, with them, photographs are taken with less noise when low light conditions occur. And they are more ergonomic.
What are the disadvantages of SLR cameras?
However, reflex cameras also present some drawbacks. In general, these are heavier and larger equipment. This can sometimes make you lazy to take the camera with you. On the other hand, they are more delicate and require more care, so they are not suitable for use in extreme situations.
Is it worth buying an SLR camera?
If you are a lover or a professional of photography, surely you have the answer clear. In our opinion, it is worth it, above all, it is worth it if you have the necessary knowledge to take advantage of a team as precise as an SLR camera. And the difference in the quality of the photographs is considerable.
For whom is it advisable to buy a reflex camera?
SLR cameras are recommended for all people who want to take high-quality photographs, thanks to its powerful sensors. More specifically, they are ideal for photography enthusiasts who have advanced knowledge and for those who wish to make the leap to professional photography.
What is the importance of the objective of an SLR camera?
There is something that you have to be clear: after the camera, the objective is the most important element of a photographer’s team. Some say it is even more important than the camera itself. Its importance is due to the fact that it is the first place through which light passes. In addition, in this journey light undergoes changes and alterations.
In this way, the objective is a key element when taking photographs. That is why it is convenient to choose an adequate one of good quality. Keep in mind that most of those that come standard with cameras are usually quite basic.
What available modes does an SLR camera have?
Virtually all reflex cameras allow you to choose between different modes of use. Thus, one can distinguish between an automatic mode, a series of predefined modes and manual and semi-manual modes. The predefined modes are programmed to be used in a series of specific circumstances.
The last two are those that allow you to enjoy full control of the camera. Of course, they are also the most complicated to use. To be able to use them correctly, it is necessary to master, at least, some basic concepts. However, with manual mode is with which you can achieve more impressive photographs.