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Which DSLR Camera Should I Buy?
I get asked this question all the time. The world of cameras can be terribly confusing and overwhelming.
Trust me, I felt the same way when I was buying my first DSLR. I didn't know which brands to consider, what camera details mattered, and what I should be looking for or thinking about.
To help with this uncertainty and to answer the common question of which DSLR I recommend people buy, I have compiled a photography resources page for you. There are links listed so you can buy your camera directly with one click. Simple and easy!
What Should I Consider When Shopping for a DSLR?
The main factors you should be thinking about when shopping for your camera are:
- What will you use your camera for?
- What is your budget?
- Do you have a brand preference?
1. What do you plan to use your DSLR for?
What types of photos will you be taking? Where will you be using your camera?
Most cameras have similar capabilities that will cover a general range of situations, but you should know if you plan to take mostly landscape photos outside or if most of your photos will be of your kids inside your house.
This determines factors like ISO capability as well as lens choices.
2. What is your budget?
There are cameras that span a very wide range of price points, from around $500 all the way up to $7,000 and beyond!
Most entry level cameras will range between $500-$1300.
By knowing how much you can spend, you'll know which level of camera you can consider.
3. Do you have a brand preference?
Some people have shot with one type of camera their whole life and are devoted fans of that brand.
The two main camera brands are Canon and Nikon, and they are what I recommend.
I know there are other great brands out there like Sony, Pentax etc.
The reason I talk about Canon and Nikon is because they are the two main giants. They have the widest range of lenses available and if you are looking to buy used gear, you'll have the best chance of finding what you're looking for.
Entry Level DSLR Camera Suggestions
These are the most affordable choices, ranging from $500-$700.
They are very powerful machines, especially if all you've been using lately is a phone or a Point & Shoot.
Nikon D3400 DSLR with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VRII Lens
Details of this camera:
- 24.2 Megapixels
- ISO up to 25,600
- HD Video
- 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VRII Lens Included <-- a great starter lens.
Shop on Amazon? Here's the Nikon D3400 on Amazon.
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Canon Rebel T5i DSLR with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens
Details of this camera:
- 18 Megapixels
- ISO up to 12,800
- HD Video
- 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens Included <-- a great starter lens.
Here's the Canon T5i on Amazon.
Mid-Level DSLR Camera Suggestions
These cameras are higher priced, more sophisticated options for consumers. They typically cost between $1,100-$1,500.
They often have better ISO and video recording capabilities, as well as better quality lenses that come with them.
Nikon D7200 DSLR with AFS DX 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G Lens
Details of this camera:
- 24.2 Megapixels
- ISO up to 25,600
- HD Video
- AFS DX 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G Lens - A very versatile lens!
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Canon EOS 80D DSLR with EFS 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens
Details of this camera:
- 24.2 Megapixels
- ISO up to 25,600
- HD Video
- EFS 18-135 f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens - Another very versatile lens!!
What is the Next Lens I Should Buy?
Hands down, the next lens I recommend to people is a great, affordable portrait lens sometimes called the "Nifty Fifty".
This is a 50mm fixed lens, [it doesn't zoom, you have to use your feet instead] and gives you MUCH more indoor shooting ability to create amazing portraits.
These two lenses range from $100-$125.
Nikon 50mm f/1.8D Lens on Amazon.
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Canon 50mm f/1.8 II Lens on Amazon.
What's In My Camera Bag?
I'm often asked what type of camera gear I use in my photography business.
I am a Nikon shooter, so I use professional Nikon camera bodies.
Here are my most favorite Nikon lenses:
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I hope these links and information are helpful for you if you are trying to decide what camera or lens to buy next.
Happy shopping and if you have any questions, let me know!
**These Amazon links are affiliates, which means if you click through and purchase from either place, I will earn a small commission percentage. Thank you so much for using these links. I am very grateful.**