THE Austin Photographers Blog

The beginning

As a beginner photographer, it can be overwhelming to know what equipment to invest in. With so many different cameras, lenses, and accessories on the market, it can be tough to know where to start.

In this post, we'll take a look at some of the best photography equipment for beginners, based on performance, value, and versatility. We'll cover a range of categories, including cameras, lenses, tripods, and other accessories, to help you build a solid foundation for your photography kit.

Cameras

When it comes to cameras, there are two main options for beginners: DSLRs (digital single-lens reflex cameras) and mirrorless cameras. Both types have their own set of benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to consider your needs and preferences before making a decision.

DSLRs: DSLRs are a popular choice for beginners due to their versatility and affordability. They have a wide range of lenses available, and many models come with an APS-C sensor, which is a good size for general-purpose photography. DSLRs also tend to have longer battery life and faster autofocus than mirrorless cameras. Some popular entry-level DSLR options include the Canon Rebel T7i and the Nikon D5600.

Mirrorless Cameras: Mirrorless cameras are a newer technology that have been gaining in popularity in recent years. They offer a number of benefits over DSLRs, including smaller size, lighter weight, and faster shooting speeds. They also tend to have better video capabilities and higher resolution sensors. However, they can be more expensive than DSLRs, and the lens selection may not be as wide. Some popular entry-level mirrorless camera options include the Sony a6000 and the Fujifilm X-T200.

Lenses

Once you've chosen a camera, the next step is to consider what lenses you'll need. There are many different types of lenses available, each with its own set of characteristics and applications. Here are a few lens types that are particularly useful for beginners:

Standard Zoom Lens: A standard zoom lens is a good all-around lens that can be used for a wide range of subjects and situations. They typically have a focal length range of around 18-55mm, which is equivalent to a 28-88mm lens on a full-frame camera.

Telephoto Zoom Lens: A telephoto zoom lens is a good choice for sports, wildlife, and other types of action photography. They have a longer focal length range, typically around 70-300mm, which allows you to get closer to your subject and isolate it from the background.

Prime Lens: A prime lens has a fixed focal length, which means it can't zoom in or out. While this may seem like a drawback, prime lenses are often faster and sharper than zoom lenses, and they can be a great option for portraits and other types of photography where you want a shallow depth of field.

Tripods

A tripod is an essential piece of equipment for any photographer, as it allows you to take sharp photos at slow shutter speeds and in low light conditions. There are many different tripods available, ranging from compact and lightweight options to larger and more heavy-duty models. Some things to consider when choosing a tripod include the weight and size of the camera and lenses you'll be using, as well as the type of photography you'll be doing.

Other Accessories

In addition to the main pieces of equipment, there are a few other accessories that can be useful for beginners. These include:

Memory cards: Make sure you have enough memory cards to store all of your photos and videos. Look for cards with high capacity and fast write speeds.

1. Camera bag: A good camera bag will protect your equipment and make it easy to carry around. Look for a bag that has padded compartments, a rain cover, and a comfortable shoulder strap.
2. Filters: Filters can be used to enhance or alter the appearance of your photos in a variety of ways. Some popular options for beginners include polarizing filters, which reduce reflections and increase color saturation, and neutral density filters, which reduce the amount of light entering the lens.
3. Remote shutter release: A remote shutter release allows you to take photos without touching the camera, which can be helpful for avoiding camera shake and getting sharp images.
4. Flash: An external flash can be useful for adding light to a scene when natural light is lacking. Look for a flash with a tilting head and diffuser to help you get the best results.

Conclusion

As a beginner photographer, it's important to invest in the right equipment to help you get the most out of your photography. While it can be tempting to skimp on certain items in the interest of saving money, it's worth considering the long-term value of each piece of equipment and how it will help you grow as a photographer. By building a solid foundation of quality gear, you'll be well-equipped to take your photography to the next level.