InFocus Photography Tips - Choosing an SLR Camera

For serious photography, creative amateur or professional, the single lens reflex (SLR) is the best choice for most subjects. There are many different types of SLR cameras on the market today. Most will suit almost any photographic subject but some suit certain subjects better than others.

Ideally the photographer should identify what functions they need in a camera to suit their needs best. Here are some of the general functions that should be considered when choosing an SLR camera. What functions are available? Lets have a look...

Exposure Modes

There are many different exposure modes found on SLR cameras but MANUAL EXPOSURE is a must for the serious photographer. This is the only exposure mode that gives the photographer full control of the cameras exposure system. Semi-automatic exposure modes like aperture and shutter priority as well as full program modes are handy if you are in a hurry.

However multi program modes should not a consideration for the budding serious photographer. These modes are often identified as subject modes. They are handy for the person who knows little about photography and has no desire to know.

Subject Modes are often indicated as in the photo here. Almost all models of SLR cameras now have a standard range of subject modes.

Focusing Systems

There are two basic types, Manual and Auto-Focus.

1. MANUAL FOCUS - All lenses have manual focus, even auto focus lenses but some cameras can only be focused manually. Manually focusing a lens is slower than today's auto focus systems especially for the inexperienced. Not all photographic subjects require the need for auto focus such as landscape and still life. Indeed poor auto-focus systems can be slower than manual focus as they 'hunt' for their focus point. This can happen in poor light or if shooting through glass.
2. AUTO-FOCUS - For those moments when the photograph has to be taken quickly, there is nothing to beat an auto-focus camera. They are also especially handy for those with poor eyesight. Some auto-focus systems are better than others but only marginally. Auto-focus is the better choice for moving subjects like sports and action photography.

Nikon Manual Cameras	Minolta 505si

One of the few manual metal body camera models still manufactured today is the new Nikon FM3. This is a very robust camera that is made to put up with a bit of abuse and replaces the fully manual FM2. Used FM2 cameras in good condition are an excellent buy and will last a lifetime. The Minolta 505si (above right) is a fully specified auto focus camera that has an armoury of features to suit just about any form of photography.

Metering Systems

There are a number of metering systems now available in cameras and some cameras have a choice of two or even three types of metering patterns. These systems can really be divided into two groups, a general metering pattern, which takes an average light reading from the entire area of the viewfinder or a selective metering pattern, which only reads the light level off a certain area of the viewfinder.

1. All SLR cameras have a general metering pattern of one sort or another and all are adequate in their own way of handling exposure readings. The important aspect of metering is the photographer's technique and familiarisation with the camera. The most usual (and effective one) is called center weighted metering. More emphasis is placed in the central area than at the edges of the image.
2. Selective metering patterns are not found on all models of cameras. These would be known as spot meters or partial meters. These systems only take into account a small portion of the viewfinder area and is a definite feature to consider when choosing a camera. Some cameras also have multi-zone or matrix type metering. This is selective metering of several areas which are then combined by the camera to produce the correct exposure.

Power Supply

Cameras that are completely mechanically operated (manual focus, manual wind) are very economical to run and won't let you down even if the battery dies (which usually powers only the light meter in these cameras).

Auto-everything cameras usually run on lithium batteries, which are quite expensive to replace. Using a built-in flash regularly will run down these batteries even faster. If the battery dies in the middle of a shoot, your photography for the day dies with it unless a spare battery is carried.

Lenses and Accessories

Ensure that the brand and model of camera you choose has other lenses and accessories readily available. Most major brands such as Nikon, Canon, Minolta and Pentax are easily catered for but there are lesser-known brands that would have a poorer selection of extra accessories locally.

Some other manufactures may make accessories or lenses for your camera, notably, Tamron, Vivitar and Sigma all make lenses for most makes of camera available today. Usually these are cheaper than the manufacturers own lenses and do much the same job. That said, you get what you pay for, don't expect premium quality results if you are shooting through ultra cheap lenses!

We have covered some of the main points in choosing an SLR camera. There are other lesser factors that differentiate one model from another that may also sway a potential buyers judgement. System accessories, integration with existing systems and equipment may be important. Some camera manufacturers change the mount as newer models come out, meaning you will either have to keep the old system camera or replace all the lenses with new ones. Nikon are the only manufacture to keep the same lens mount throughout its SLR range. True the electronics may not work on the older cameras, but the lens still fits!

School of Photography.com Full Length Courses

If you want to learn more about all kinds of photography, take a look at our complete full length courses. All are tutor assisted with examples, full text and projects.

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• Glamour Photography Course This level 2 course assumes you know your way around a camera. It takes you further with studio lighting setups, home studio, model portfolios, posing guide, multiple lighting guide, model releases, make up and more.
• Freelance Photography Course This level 2 course is essential if you want to make money with your camera. Imagine being paid to be do something you love doing, well you can now with School of Photography.com.
• Black and White Photography Course Have you ever wanted to learn how to develop film at home? Then go on to make your own prints using an enlarger in a darkroom? Then this level 2 course is the right start for you.
• Landscape Photography Course Find out how to improve your landscapes with this level 2 course. Packed full of illustrations, examples, full text and projects.

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