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DSLR challenges
Before investing in a digital single lens reflex camera there are a few other things you should know:
DSLR images require more editing
Straight out of the camera, images require more editing than I have with compact digital camera images. While there are auto modes on DSLRs and images can be saved as jpg files, it is much better to take the images in raw mode. Don’t be scared about processing raw images – it’s a lot easier than the directions might make you believe.
Obtaining deep depth of field is more difficult
Using a large aperture, such as f/2.8, on a compact digital camera gives me great depth of field, the area of a picture that’s in focus from near to far. Using the same aperture with my DSLR will give me less area in focus. For example, when photographing my dog only his nose and eyes are in focus. The rest of his body will be a blur.
The sensor may require cleaning
Unless a DSLR has a built-in anti-dust system, the sensor inside the camera has to be cleaned! Volumes are written about different products for performing this scary process. I’ve changed my DSLR lenses hundreds of times, opening up the sensor to dreaded dust spots, each time I did it.
I must admit I’ve cleaned sensors only three times. If there is a spot on an image, I fix it very easily with my photo editing program. For the faint-hearted, you can have the sensor professionally cleaned.
Before buying a DSLR
Before switching from a compact to a digital single lens reflex camera, also consider the following:
- Good lenses aren’t cheap, so it pays to do research. I visit the DSLR forums at dpreview and also check the reviews at Fred Miranda's site. The advantage of buying a good lens is that it will retain much of its value if you decide to sell.
- Some lenses are more useful than others, so choose carefully! Currently I’m finding my 17-55mm* f/2.8 lens the most widely useful of any I own.
- It helps to love post processing (editing) photos. Images don’t always come out of the camera the way you want them. Being able to edit creatively and competently has saved many a shot that might otherwise have been discarded.
- Not surprisingly, many DSLRs and lenses weigh a whole lot more than compact digital cameras!
If you are an adventurous sort who wants to get into digital photography as well as photo editing more deeply, a DSLR and a good editing program are definitely for you.
Related reading: DSLR Parts | DSLR Glossary | DSLR BLOG
* 35mm equivalent of a 27mm - 88mm lens
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