What Camera Should I Buy??
What camera should I buy?? This is by far the most common question I get asked but it is one of the most difficult to answer.
If you are more of a video person, check out my Youtube channel and watch my video on this common question.
So, you want me to tell you what camera you need huh?? It depends. Do you have $400 to spend or $7000? Do you have any camera gear already?
Ive answered this question inderectly over several videos but i figured I would make it easy on you and just give you a short answer. If you want to learn and invest in photography, but you only have $400, get the Nikon D7000. This camera is a bit older but it has the advanced features that are not found on entry level cameras.
For example, this camera has a built in autofocus motor, which means you can use less expensive and smaller lenses. It has the ability to have a grip on the bottom to hold an extra battery and allows you to shoot vertically much easier It has a small screen on top for easy access to your settings. It has two command dials for easily altering your settings. It has customizable buttons and the ability to customize things the way you like it and works best for you.
The entry level cameras have none of the above. They produce great images, but acquiring the image is more difficult because you have to go into the menu and use the back screen to alter all your settings. The entry level cameras do not have as accurate or fast autofocus (especially in low light).
If you have $1500 to spend, you probably already have a good idea of what you want, but I would recommend the Nikon D750. It is incredible. I own two of them and use them several times a week.
Last, no matter what camera you get, do NOT use a kit lens! Never use an 18-55, 18-105, 55-200, etc…. All of those lenses preform terribly in low light! They do not let enough light through so your shutter has to be slower causing blurry images or your ISO has to be cranked up causing grain. Also, the less light your lens lets in, the harder it is for your camera to focus.
Buy a 50mm lens. A F/1.8 lens will work just fine. I have owned two different 50mm F/1.4 and I always go back to the 1.8 because it is so much smaller and lighter and gives nearly identical real world results.