BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: New Questions

Is this Camera what I need?

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September 01, 2001

This is certainly one you can start with. There is no reason you cannot use it for this type of work to start with. You will want to gain some experience with its Program and AF system so you can predict how it will behave.

Your next important considerations as you start are lighting (including backdrop) and how to pose and compose with lighting (assuming this is studio portrait work and the portfolios are for models and actors/performers). Since the Rebel does not have a PC socket, you can control external lights by using an adapter in the hot shoe that has a PC socket on it. This is a standard accessory at any major camera store.

Caveat:
If you work photography full-time, you will eventually want a "professional grade" body as your business grows. Indeed, you'll want at least one spare, probably two. The reason? Mostly durability, but it will also have ability to manually control focus and exposure easier along with a few additional, specialized features that would be used occasionally (not extra program modes). The need for durability and eventually a spare body should not be underestimated. The number of film frames an active, full-time professional shoots each year can easily number into tens of thousands. This is much, much more film than a very active non-professional consumes (by about 10 times). Under that much heavy use, even the best of bodies can fail. Having at least one spare to keep working is important. Camera repair can take one to two months. Same applies to eventually building up several lenses you can use (especially with AF systems with focus motors in them). A couple things to think about and plan for over the next couple years. The Rebel can be used for now and become a spare later.

-- John

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September 01, 2001

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September 02, 2001