Buying a Camera
Camera Choice Don't be put off by the seemingly endless array of cameras when you go into a photographic store.
It might seem difficult to make a decision initially, but do not worry.
There is a large number of models, but only a few different types of camera.
Once you know the type of camera you want it is then the case of deciding on a particular make & model.
The Camera You Need Choose the camera you feel at ease with.
Many buyers are tempted into buying a camera that they simply don't need.
The complete newcomer to photography may be confused by an electronic marvel 35mm camera- and then become discouraged from taking pictures because of its complexity.
Remember, there is a camera on the market for every level of photography, from simple snaps to tackling professional assignments.
Price and Quality Generally, cameras are very good value for money.
In most cases you get what you pay for.
But even at the lower end of the price scale, you can still find a pretty decent camera that will produce reasonable results.
Obviously, the more you pay the better the better quality of the camera.
But don't confuse this with achieving better quality results- This usually depends more on the photographer, rather than the camera.
Before You Buy Before you part with any money for a new camera.
Ask yourself a few questions.
What can I realistically afford? Do I want a simple snapshot camera? Do I want a camera that will stretch my photographic ability? Do I want to be able to add a range of useful accessories later? Who can I ask for some useful informed advice? Have I read as much about cameras as I should? Is there anything I need to ask the dealer before buying? The answers to these questions should help you avoid making the wrong purchase.
Thinking Ahead When you are purchasing a camera it pays to think beyond your initial requirements.
For example you may prefer to buy a single lens reflex camera (SLR) rather than a compact because of the accessories you want to buy later.
Spending carefully now can make long term goals a lot easier to achieve.
Hands-On When you buy a camera you really should hold the camera and get the feel for it.
You should be just as interested in how the camera handles as in its specification.
Do not buy a camera you do not feel comfortable handling as you will regret this in the future.
Look First For A Test Report One way of finding out how a camera you are interested in performs is by reading a test report on it.
Many photographic magazines test the most popular brand of camera, commenting on performance, specification, handling and so on.
Reading such a report beforehand can give you a feel of what to expect- but remember.
Its your opinion and that should be the final decider.
Your Own Trial Run Most photographers would prefer to try the camera before they buy it, but the problem is this is rarely possible.
If you have a friend who has a similar model to the one you are thinking of buying, ask his opinion on it.
You may even be able to borrow it for a trial run.
If you are on friendly terms with your local camera dealer, he or she may allow you to take a few test shots.
Where To Buy The increasing population of photography has widened the market for cameras, and you can buy them in a variety of different places.
These range from solely photographic dealers, through high street chemists and other stores to stationery chains.
Prices are usually fairly stable except in certain lines during special offers or sales.
Specialist Dealers While cameras are available from various sources, most keen enthusiasts buy from specialist photographic stores.
This is mainly because of the dealers specialist knowledge on the subject and because the good dealers will not only stock accessories, but they will also offer camera repair.
Internet Be careful when buying a camera by the internet.
While this is a simple and convenient way of buying, particular if there isn't a camera store nearby.
It often involves buying blindly as you can't get a feel for the product before buying.
You can usually get a better deal through the internet though and if you choose your camera and your not satisfied with it, most companies offer a money back guarantee but you must check with them first.
Guarantees Most cameras are supplied with a manufacturer's worldwide warranty.
Make sure to read the guarantee very carefully so you know exactly what is covered in the case of a problem.
Buying Second-hand If you are looking for a camera bargain, the second hand market is worth considering.
Some specialist dealers offer used stock for sale and there are also plenty of second-hand bargains to be found in the classifieds section of your local newspaper.
There is always more of a risk with second hand though because usually no guarantee if offered.
It might seem difficult to make a decision initially, but do not worry.
There is a large number of models, but only a few different types of camera.
Once you know the type of camera you want it is then the case of deciding on a particular make & model.
The Camera You Need Choose the camera you feel at ease with.
Many buyers are tempted into buying a camera that they simply don't need.
The complete newcomer to photography may be confused by an electronic marvel 35mm camera- and then become discouraged from taking pictures because of its complexity.
Remember, there is a camera on the market for every level of photography, from simple snaps to tackling professional assignments.
Price and Quality Generally, cameras are very good value for money.
In most cases you get what you pay for.
But even at the lower end of the price scale, you can still find a pretty decent camera that will produce reasonable results.
Obviously, the more you pay the better the better quality of the camera.
But don't confuse this with achieving better quality results- This usually depends more on the photographer, rather than the camera.
Before You Buy Before you part with any money for a new camera.
Ask yourself a few questions.
What can I realistically afford? Do I want a simple snapshot camera? Do I want a camera that will stretch my photographic ability? Do I want to be able to add a range of useful accessories later? Who can I ask for some useful informed advice? Have I read as much about cameras as I should? Is there anything I need to ask the dealer before buying? The answers to these questions should help you avoid making the wrong purchase.
Thinking Ahead When you are purchasing a camera it pays to think beyond your initial requirements.
For example you may prefer to buy a single lens reflex camera (SLR) rather than a compact because of the accessories you want to buy later.
Spending carefully now can make long term goals a lot easier to achieve.
Hands-On When you buy a camera you really should hold the camera and get the feel for it.
You should be just as interested in how the camera handles as in its specification.
Do not buy a camera you do not feel comfortable handling as you will regret this in the future.
Look First For A Test Report One way of finding out how a camera you are interested in performs is by reading a test report on it.
Many photographic magazines test the most popular brand of camera, commenting on performance, specification, handling and so on.
Reading such a report beforehand can give you a feel of what to expect- but remember.
Its your opinion and that should be the final decider.
Your Own Trial Run Most photographers would prefer to try the camera before they buy it, but the problem is this is rarely possible.
If you have a friend who has a similar model to the one you are thinking of buying, ask his opinion on it.
You may even be able to borrow it for a trial run.
If you are on friendly terms with your local camera dealer, he or she may allow you to take a few test shots.
Where To Buy The increasing population of photography has widened the market for cameras, and you can buy them in a variety of different places.
These range from solely photographic dealers, through high street chemists and other stores to stationery chains.
Prices are usually fairly stable except in certain lines during special offers or sales.
Specialist Dealers While cameras are available from various sources, most keen enthusiasts buy from specialist photographic stores.
This is mainly because of the dealers specialist knowledge on the subject and because the good dealers will not only stock accessories, but they will also offer camera repair.
Internet Be careful when buying a camera by the internet.
While this is a simple and convenient way of buying, particular if there isn't a camera store nearby.
It often involves buying blindly as you can't get a feel for the product before buying.
You can usually get a better deal through the internet though and if you choose your camera and your not satisfied with it, most companies offer a money back guarantee but you must check with them first.
Guarantees Most cameras are supplied with a manufacturer's worldwide warranty.
Make sure to read the guarantee very carefully so you know exactly what is covered in the case of a problem.
Buying Second-hand If you are looking for a camera bargain, the second hand market is worth considering.
Some specialist dealers offer used stock for sale and there are also plenty of second-hand bargains to be found in the classifieds section of your local newspaper.
There is always more of a risk with second hand though because usually no guarantee if offered.
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