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Every November through December, emails start to trickle in asking the all-familiar question, “Which camera do you recommend?” or “What kind of camera do you use?” Here’s my very honest answer to that seemingly simple, but very loaded question:
My first recommendation is you examine your reason for buying a DSLR or what many call a “fancy camera.” If you want to take better images, that’s awesome! Want to be able to zoom in for kid’s sports? Yay! However, I will be honest and tell you most people who purchase a DSLR use it for a short period of time and may like it, but then they become easily frustrated and don’t learn to use it properly to create stunning images. It then sits in the bag it probably came with and collects dust or many, many times I’ve seen them for sale on Facebook Marketplace a few years later.
The truth. The real benefits of a DSLR camera begin when you learn to use it how it was intended, and that’s shooting in manual mode by learning aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to create proper exposure. The magic of a DSLR happens when you learn, put the pieces together, and practice, A LOT. This takes a huge time commitment. Otherwise, using a DSLR on its automatic setting is really producing nothing more than what your phone’s camera can create, but with a more advanced and larger image file. A “fancy camera” is nothing more than a tool but you must learn to USE it! In other words, my camera doesn’t create great images, I DO!
There’s a small minority of people I will encourage to purchase a DSLR:
Many consumer-level DSLRs have lots of attractive bells and whistles, fun flip screens, automatic settings, and more. But beware, these are sales tactics. Because I use a professional level camera that lacks any automatic setting options (meaning I’m always choosing my aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and white balance), I don’t have much advice on a specific consumer DSLR because I don’t research them. They also change so much from year to year. I highly recommend Ken Rockwell‘s advice on the latest consumer models.
Lenses. Your lens choice will make a bigger impact on your images than your camera. Those fancy-looking, zoom lenses that come with a camera will not make great images (harsh reality, but true!). I do not recommend purchasing a dSLR “kit” that comes with one. You are SO much better off purchasing a camera body and a nice lens separately. Do not fall for the sales tactic of the all-inclusive kit, TRUST ME! The quality of the lens on the end of your camera is what will help you begin to create art. I prefer prime lenses, or a lens with one focal length. If you’ve had a session with me, you know I MOVE to create my images. I only use a professional zoom lens for personal action photography at race tracks. I highly recommend purchasing a great 50mm or 35mm f/1.8 lens to start. If you need to save some cash, I’ve bought several refurbished lenses from Nikon here and have always been pleased.
A word on Mirrorless. I haven’t taken the plunge yet, but know several photographers who have changed to mirrorless technology. I’ve heard mixed feelings, so I’m sitting where I’m happy with my traditional equipment as long as they serve me well.
How to shoot manually. I wish I was good at explaining the “techy” side of photography, but I’m not. It’s one of those things I can do very well, but can’t explain to you how I got there other than through practice and knowing what role each of the settings plays in creating an image. 🙂 Google is your best friend in this case. There are endless resources on YouTube, KenRockwell.com, KelbyOne, and more!
Composition: The technical aspects of photography are only one part of the equation to equal great images. This is where the “you have such a great eye!” comes into play. Knowing the rules of composing great images and how to break them effectively is more important than technical expertise. Want to learn? I offer resources and private mentorships for photographers and business owners. Learn more here!
What I shoot with. I shoot with Nikon professional camera bodies and lenses. Here is my current gear list and links:
Camera Bodies
Lenses
Nikkor 35mm f/1.4 (tight spaces and children)
Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 (most used for families and children)
Nikkor 85mm f/1.4 (used 98% of the time for seniors)
Nikkor 70-200 f/2.8 (sports)
Nikkor 24-70 f/2.8 (landscapes or events)
Update: You can find my recommendations for beginning photographers HERE!
Questions? Feel free to get in touch! Happy shooting!
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-Beth, Family Client and Mom to two LMP Seniors
" Laura was easy to work with, flexible, and so artistic. Working with her was a great experience..."
-Amanda, Stepmom to LMP Senior, Ayrin
" I hope I get to work with you again someday. You are truly talented..."
"Laura went out of her way to make sure my daughter felt comfortable and to ensure we captured this milestone perfectly. Our photo gallery was exquisite and delivered to us so quickly..."
-Andrea, LMP Senior Mom
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