Cameras - Buyers Guide

While we are all very accustomed to using phone cameras for quick snaps on the run, for those who take pride in shooting high quality, artful, skilful photos, investing in a genuine digital camera is the way to go.

When researching and deciding on the type of camera you need, you should take the following factors into consideration:

The type of photography you're passionate about
The situations/environments you plan to use it in
Your budget
Your physical preferences: weight, ergonomics

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DSLR

For a long time DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras have been setting the benchmark due to their versatility and quality. When you buy a DSLR you are buying into an ecosystem – a multitude of lenses and accessories.

SLR design was invented long before digital sensors came along. SLRs used film and they have been rendered obsolete by digital sensors – hence the name change to DSLR.

The DSLR ushered in a new era in photography for professional photographers and passionate hobbyists. They were the first high selling interchangeable lens cameras that included extremely useful features like shutter speed, exposure, aperture and the ability to change out lenses.

Having access to these features is essential to photographers who regard their photography as being a form of artistic enjoyment; a hobby that requires serious skill and creativity.

DSLR cameras function with an internal mirror reflecting light through the lens up to a prism (or multiple mirrors) into the viewfinder so you can assess your potential photo. When you press down to shoot, the mirror flips up, shutter opens, light hits the sensor which then captures your photo.

Buying an inexpensive DSLR is widely regarded as one of the most affordable ways to get into skilful photography. A DSLR boasts superior battery life to mirrorless cameras and some people believe that they are more ergonomic and easier to handle.

DSLRs are widely known to be the superior option for sports photography due to their unparalleled focus speed. DSLRs also shoot excellent stationary images and offer a lot of flexibility.

Check out our range of DSLRS

Mirrorless

Mirrorless cameras tend to be smaller and lighter than a DSLR and as the name indicates, they are designed without the mirror system that is the key design aspect in a DSLR.

A mirrorless camera uses a sensor to feed through to an electronic viewfinder or LCD screen and as is the case with a DSLR, they are highly regarded for taking excellent quality photos. Mirrorless cameras provide a live view, captured by the camera sensor to create an electronic viewfinder image.

Admirers of the mirrorless camera praise it for its lightness and flexibility. There are a very wide array of lenses to be chosen from and a variety of manually adjustable settings.

Critics of the mirrorless camera point to its legacy of focus inefficiency, in comparison to DSLRs. But admirers of the mirrorless point to its recent hybrid autofocus systems for much improved autofocus speed – elevating its focus performance to a level where it compares respectably with most DSLR focus technology.

Mirrorless cameras shoot excellent video, high quality stationary images and they are lighter to hold than a DSLR.

Check out our range of Mirrorless cameras

Drones

For those who enjoy taking photos like you're controlling an eagle, then using a Drone (UAV) offers you an outstanding aerial photography perspective.

Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, are remotely controlled - from up to 9km away. They take a mixture of both photos and video. You will have the option of flying your drone using an incorporated 3.3inch OLED display which enables you to pilot without the need for a mobile device.

Some models also offer gesture control which allows for hands-free flying and video recording and photo capture in Intelligent Flight Modes.

Check out our range of Drones

Action cameras

If you want to capture your outdoors thrills, climbing in spectacular locations, on and under the ocean, then an action camera is perfect for recording the action while you are fully immersed in it.

With an action camera you can capture every single moment of the action. Whether you are underwater, surfing waves, traversing a canyon, or climbing a mountain, you'll be able to record it all with an impact resistant, waterproof action camera.

GoPro is considered one of the most highly regarded action camera brands. GoPro cameras are durable, robust, compact and feature sophisticated tech. GoPros are designed to capture high quality video and stills in a range of tough environments. If you’re looking for action camera accessories, we have an extensive range available from the top brands.

You’ll find everything you need in order to capture a white water rafting adventure, an epic mountain hike or even swimming with dolphins. There aren't many place you can't make use of an action camera.

Check out our range of Action cameras

Compact camera

For those who are just after a simple, entry level, inexpensive camera - a compact camera is the way to go.

If you’re happy with a point and shoot approach, then a compact camera will be a very sensible choice. There are also plenty of compact cameras that feature large sensors, long zooms and additional manual controls.

Check out our range of Compact cameras

Cameras - Buyers Guide