Should You Invest in a DSLR?

First off, what is a DSLR?

Well, DSLR stands for digital single-lens reflex camera. Basically those fancy large cameras that you see photgraphy fanatics with.

As digital photos continue to improve, a lot of people have begun to put an emphasis on taking more pictures than ever before. This may because there is no need to pay for film or to have photos developed, meaning that you can now spend much more time taking pictures of events and moments that might have been neglected previously. For this reason, a lot of people assume that what they really need to capture these moments, therefore, is a DSLR. And while there are a few people who will truly benefit from this investment, the majority of amateur photogs may be better off without it.

Who Will Benefit from a DSLR?

The biggest advantage to using a DSLR is its ability to be used in manual settings. In other words, you gain a lot more control over your images this way, and can help manipulate them to get the results you want. Many people think that investing in a DSLR and then shooting in automatic mode will get them the same shots. This simply isn’t true, however; manual mode will give you greater control.

So any amateur photographer that really wants to develop their art and learn to manipulate images will benefit from the investment. Someone that just wants to take pictures as they see them will actually do better with a point-and-shoot or even the camera on your phone. This is especially true if you like to pictures while you’re out and about; a heavy, expensive DSLR is going to require a lot more care to take with you than a convenient camera phone you keep in your pocket.

Making the Switch

For anyone looking to develop their photography skills, it’s actually recommended that you start out with a high quality point and shoot, or with a phone that allows you to download an app that will give you greater control of the camera. This will let you play with a few settings and see if photography is the hobby for you. If so, you’ll likely find that you’re more comfortable with the DSLR once you switch. If not, then you can easily go back to shooting in auto with a high quality point and shoot or camera app and get the kinds of pictures you want with no additional confusion or stress.

A DSLR will not automatically make you a better photographer; you need to put in the time and investment in learning first. If you’re willing to do the work, then make the switch to see the desired results. Otherwise, stick with what you know.