I’m not sure how many parts to this new blog series there will be so it’s open ended for now and if you have a question or comment, send me an email or write a note in the comment section below and I will address your questions in a future blog post.  I’m going to gear this series towards parents who would love to take better photos of their kids with their current camera(or even their smart phone), but it can pertain to anyone out there who wants to read and learn.

First up is selecting a camera!  You need a camera before you can take photographs so I thought this would be the best place to start- right?  😉  The first thing I want to stress is that you do not need to go out and spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a brand new shinny camera.  For what you photograph everyday a point and shoot(or sometimes even your phone!) can do the job for you.  Unless you are looking to take up photography as a career I would recommend only spending what you are comfortable spending and get the best camera for your budget.  Obviously some of the more expensive cameras have more capabilities but unless you need a specific lens or function(for example low light or underwater photography) there is no need to go crazy here.  Also technology is evolving so rapidly that in 2 years you may be able to buy a starter SLR for what you buy your point and shoot for today.  If you don’t know what an Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera is you can read up on them here.

The second thing I want to say is TEST OUT THE CAMERA BEFORE YOU BUY IT!!  I cannot stress this enough!  Most camera stores have display cameras that you can hold, take test photos with, see if it fits into your pocket/purse/bag, etc.  Does it fit nicely in your hand?  Is it heavy?  Will it add 10 pounds when placed into your bag walking around a new city all day long while on vacation and make you sorry your purchased it because it weighs too much?  What does it come with?  Are accessories easy to purchase afterwards as needed?  I found I like Canon cameras since they tend to be a little smaller and fit in my hands comfortably.  I also have had canon cameras since I was about 12 so it’s easy for me to use them as the buttons/functions are similar within their camera lines.  Currently I have the Canon 5D Mark ii, my Droid Incredible phone which takes all my instagram photos(follow me @meridithdesmond), and my husband has a Canon Powershot Elph point and shoot that he uses for work and sometimes play.  I use my camera phone like I would a point and shoot and I always have it on me so it’s great to take photos with on the go.  My SLR camera is for work, personal projects, vacation and other times when I don’t mind carrying it around!  It can get heavy carrying it around all day while on vacation but I when it does we stop for a drink or ice cream or I give it to Chris to carry- ha!  😉

The next thing on my list is ask the sales person questions.  Lots of them.  Tell the sales person what you want to use the camera for and what your budget is.  Do you want to photograph your little kids?  Then you may want a fast shutter.  Do you want to photograph your older kids on the sports field?  Then you may want a camera that has a longer zoom.  Do you want to photograph indoors a lot?  Then you may need a better flash.  Do you want to take photos of bugs or other small items? Then you will need a macro setting.  I find that going to a store that specializes in cameras is best when deciding to purchase a camera.  A lot of the employees at camera stores are photographers themselves and work for the store full or part time.  They can recommend products or other models that may suit your needs and help guide you to purchase the best camera for you.  A big box chain store that has a high school kid behind the counter may not know much about what camera does what.  Nothing wrong with HS kids but I would want a pro to help me select the best tool for the job! 😉

If you need a recommendation for a camera store here are a few within NJ/NY area:

• Bergen County Camera – they have 2 locations!
• Unique Photo – Fairfield NJ
• Beach Camera – Edison NJ
• The Photo Center – Bricktown NJ
• B&H Photo Video – NYC
• Adorama– NYC -they also rent some equipment for you to try out!

Again if you have any questions or recommended blog post topics please email me or leave a comment below.  Enjoy and happy shopping!