 Felicia A. Moody |
What is the best camera equipment for me? My name is Felicia, and I am new to professional photography. The only photography I have been doing up until now is taking pictures with disposable cameras. I love taking pictures of animals and nature. What would be the best equipment to buy? Cameras, tripods..the whole shebang. Also, I have read that digital is the best way to go, especially if I want to be professional, but I would like to know if film or digital would be best. Thanks!
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Irene Troy |
First, I apologize before hand if this comes across rudely; however, I am more than a little confused about your question. You wrote: I am new to professional photography. The only photography I have been doing up until now is taking pictures with disposable cameras. I love taking pictures of animals and nature. What would be the best equipment to buy? Cameras, tripods..the whole shebang. Also, I have read that digital is the best way to go, especially if I want to be professional, but I would like to know if film or digital would be best. “ If this is correct than you are not new to professional photography, you are new to photography! If the only camera you have used is a disposable camera, than you have lots to learn before being considered more than a beginner. I cannot fathom why so many people think that they can call themselves professional before they even master the basics! Would anyone consider using the term professional plumber because they once replaced a flow restrictor on their shower? NO! Going pro is a long trip and many people here and elsewhere work for years before they consider themselves working pros. It’s a journey of learning and developing, just as in any other profession or pursuit. I’ve been “taking pictures” my entire life – and I’m no young thing – but have only being making images for a couple of years. I still do not call my self a pro, although I do sell images both to accompany the writing I do (Yes, I do consider myself a pro writer) and also to other markets. Okay, end of that rant. If you are still with me, I’ll throw in something about choosing a camera. Everyone who has been shooting for more than a week has his/her favorite camera and idea about what makes a good camera. But, honestly, the camera is only the tool; the person pushing the shutter is the means for making a good image. There is an interesting article by Bob Krist in this month’s Outdoor Photographer on the topic of gear. Apparently, the editor of National Geographic Traveler told his photographers that they must shoot in digital for a particular annual issue. The catch was that they had to use the entry level model camera for their preferred brand and not the more advanced and more expensive pro model. These pros – among the best in the business – created great images (National Geographic level great, which is about as high as it goes) with amateur cameras. The thought puts the entire issue of camera ability versus photographer ability to rest, doesn’t it? Anyway, if you are serious about learning photography, go visit a good local camera shop – underline the word good here- and make sure that it is a shop that treats even beginners with honesty and respect. Personally, I would go digital since today it really is the choice of most photographers and is, in some ways, a better tool for learning since you see both your successes and mistakes immediately. Try out a few of their entry level cameras and see what feels right in your hands. If you are very lucky, they will even permit you to shoot a few frames. Once you have made your decision, go home with the camera and lens. Sit down some place quiet and read the entire manual, front to back, while trying out things with the camera. Load the memory card and head out to shoot some frames. Try out every possible combination of settings and see what you get. Then come back here, load up those images and let others give you some feedback. Then consider signing up for classes here at BP. Personally, I have learned a tremendous amount from the classes and credit them for much of my success. Finally, if this really is something you want to do and you are willing to put in the effort, keep shooting, keep asking questions and don’t get discouraged by your failures. Irene
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John H. Siskin |
You might want to take some classes here at BetterPhoto. There is a huge range. I have an article here about some of the basics: www.betterphoto.com/article.php?id=135. It might help. Photography is a language, a way of communicating. to communicate well you need good tools, but you also need to know how to use the tools, and have something to say. Thanks, John Siskin
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Mark Feldstein |
WOW !!! Thanks Irene !!! Well put. About all I want to add is that Felicia would do well to rummage around for books in the local library not only for photo books but also books on art including portraiture. Study lighting of master painters like Rembrandt and also great master plumbers like Guido (the "Porcelein King") Campanille of East Orange New Jersey. I gotta go. ;>) Mark M.
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William Schuette |
I didn't know there was another guido fan out there.
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Felicia A. Moody |
I want to thank all of you for your respones. Irene, thank you for yours especially. No, I did not find it rude. And I want to apologize for making it sound like I was calling myself a pro. Your response was very insightful and I will definitely be doing what you suggested. And again, thank you all for your responses. But, before I go, I have another question. In your professional opinion, what camera or cameras would be best for pet/wildlife and/or nature photography? Thanks!
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- Gregory LaGrange Contact Gregory LaGrange Gregory LaGrange's Gallery |
Nikon, Canon, Sony, Pentax, Hasselblad, Mamiya, Toyo
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Irene Troy |
Felicia – what Gregory is saying in his own inimitable fashion is that there is no such thing as “the best camera” for any genre of photography. I love my Canon 5D, but it is a very expensive camera and definitely not a camera for beginners (unless you enjoy shelling out big bucks to be frustrated by too much power and lack of knowledge). People here love and swear by their Nikons, Pentax, Hasselblad, Mamiya, Toyo, etc. cameras and wouldn’t trade them for a camera by another manufacturer. When you are starting out, IMO, you are better off with an entry level camera because, a) you don’t know how to make the most of the “bells and whistles” on the pro cameras; b) you need to keep it simple while you learn and finally c) investing in a major expense (pro cameras are expensive) before you even know what you really want/need is just stupid. As I already suggested, find a good camera shop, try out different models and go from there. Irene
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John H. Siskin |
I have an 8X10 Toyo Field that is just a magnificent camera! Learning to use an 8X10 can be a little frustrating however, also expensive. Thanks, John Siskin
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Bob Cammarata |
Keep in mind that "bells and whistles" will never replace an understanding of the basic principles of light and composition. Sure, they will get you there faster but you have to know first where you are going...and you must have attained the knowledge and experience to comprehend how you got there. And don't tread lightly down the road of business (photography or otherwise) without a comprehensive strategy or you may find yourself in the path of a steamroller. (...food for thought.)
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Irene Troy |
Sitting here – in an odd motel room in the wilds of “nowhere” Canada and rereading all of this discussion reminds me of something that happened to me a few years back: I was just getting to the point of being serious, or perhaps I should say; wanting to be serious; about my photography. I had a really old Minolta and an even older Canon. Neither camera worked correctly. I asked a number of people in stores about cameras and what I should buy. Keep in mind that I did not know about BP at this point. I ended up buying a new Minolta because it was less expensive than the Canon – not a good reason, but then what did I know? So…a few months go by and I’m thinking that I bought the wrong camera and that this was why my pictures were not what I wanted. I was reading books and trying new ideas, but still my pics were not what I hoped for. Then two things happened almost at the same time. First, I found BP and then I learned that my neighbor’s son was a pro photographer for National Geographic. He comes to visit her every month or so and one time I talked with him about photography and my frustration that I didn’t have the “right camera”. He invited me to go out one weekend and shoot along side of him. At one point he even let me use his Canon Mark – something (sorry, I really don’t remember which model). I thought: Wow – with a good camera my shots will be wonderful and I can finally get the results I want! Do I have to tell you the rest of the story? Yeah – my results were no different than those with my “crappy” Minolta. So, I took a couple of BP classes and learned that…I had a lot to learn. Eventually, I graduated to a different camera that offered some more features that, by then, I actually knew how to use. My pics got much better and I kept taking classes, reading and most of all, shooting pics. I bought my current camera – a Canon 5D – about 18months ago. I know that had it even been available back when I started, I would still not have made any better images. It took learning and doing to be able to master the features that this pro-level camera offers. My Nat Geo buddy still makes better images than I do, but that gives me something to strive for. The one thing I no longer worry about is getting the “best” camera on the market. I’ve finally learned that there is no such thing. What is “best” for one person may fail to meet the needs of another. I’m happy with what I own, but if I won the lottery I’d go out and get that $8000 camera I’d love along with the $8000 lens and all the other toys. Would they improve my images? Nope. Irene Oh, and John, I think I'm going to have to take your class on lighting! It's time to learn something about photographing people in the environment.
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John H. Siskin |
Hi Irene, Lighting gives you a whole new ability to take control of your images. When you go out and rely on found light, like the sun, you are capturing the light you see; literally taking pictures. Whey you set up light for a picture, create the light you want to photograph, you are making pictures. One is not better than the other, but they are different ways of approaching photography. I would be very pleased to see you in one of my classes. Thanks, John Siskin
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Samuel Smith |
just tagging along. now I have the right camera and the right processing software.. now that i'm shooting better photos I need to learn light? you wanted to capture your knowledge better,a perfect vision of a photo.glad you have taken all the mistakes out of photography.all imperfections are gone from flowers.those tiger stripes were sharper...the feeling that I could have done better is gone.light and exposure has not changed.only manipulated.
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Oliver Anderson |
Ummmm if the National Geographic photographers can make any camera ROCK shouldn't they be able to take killer shots with a disposable. I mean the other day in the grocery store checkout line I grabbed BOTH the Kodak and Fuji disposables and really fell in love with the way the Fuji fit my hand...I'm going to duck tape a Lens Baby to it and take some photos to send to National Geographic....
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- Gregory LaGrange Contact Gregory LaGrange Gregory LaGrange's Gallery |
Best knives are sharp knives. They prevent burning of the food.
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Felicia A. Moody |
What I just read was very informative! Thank you! I have been reading some books that I got from my library on photography and trying to read about the different types of digi cams and the lenses and all about transferring mechanisms, batteries, memory and everything involved with digi photography. My question is: what digital equipment is good for a beginner? I know it's different people..different gear...but on average, what would you suggest. Also, I have been reading a lot about a Canon D30. Would you suggest this cam for a beginner or would it only matter how I "get along" with the cam rather than the model? Thanks!
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Samuel Smith |
duct tape,mans best friend. oliver,take your shots.so your offended because you didn't read the original post. if you can't pay attention to a slight reverse dislexic.traits,sp.geez. now that it seems we don't even like each other,is someone even listening. if you wish I will allow ya'll to argue and claim your right.do I assume artists,photogs,have an attitude?not really a part of the equation?what was the question?
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