Image Resolution or Megapixel
Most people still think that the more megapixel, the better image quality they will get with the camera. But unfortunately the assumption is not correct. Six megapixel camera will deliver the same image quality in print up to 8×10″ Therefore big image resolution is great only if you need very big print, bigger than 20 inches. For web sharing, 3 megapixel image will look just fine A camera with big image resolution usually noisier in higher ISO speed, which also causes strain in your storage space. Fortunately, you can always choose to shoot in lower image resolution.Please don’t based your decision on buying the camera only by this factor.
IS on body or lens
Image stabilization in DSLR camera is great invention. With IS, you can shoot at slower shutter speed without have to worry about camera shake.
There are two kind of IS implementation, first it is camera built-in image stabilization. Sony, Pentax, and Olympus employs this technology. This IS will works well with all lenses mounted on the camera. This is potentially save you some money because high quality lenses with IS is generally more expensive.
The second one is lens based implementation. According to test, lens-based stabilization is a bit better on combating shake. There is one important advantage too, which is you can see the stabilization in your viewfinder.
If you like to shoot still life image in dim light without tripod, then you will love this feature. But this features won’t help much when you shoot fast moving objects. Most of standard, entry level zoom lenses have this features, but there are only a few prime / fixed lens that has lens-based IS. So, if you think you are constantly shooting with slow shutter speed with any kind of lens (prime and fixed), you might opt to get body based stabilization.
Live View
Live View is invented so that users can compose photos from lcd screen instead of viewfinder. This feature is useful especially for macro or product shots because you magnify part of the scene and can manually adjust focus to your liking. Live view function is also helpful when you need to compose picture in unconventional way, such as overhead or on your feet. The downside of live view is the slow auto focus system. It is must faster and clearer using viewfinder for most of the shoots. Live View also drains battery faster.
Movie
Movie implementation in DSLR cameras still need to be improved, especially auto focus speed, manual control on exposure and movie stabilization. Some DSLR has better movie mode than other. For example, Panasonic GH1 has special lens for movie mode which helps you to track moving objects quietly and effortless.
Weather Seal, waterproof body
This feature is important if you are constantly working outdoor, sometimes with harsh weather and dust.
Ergonomic
Many swears that ergonomic is the king, and should be number one factor in decision making. People argues that ergonomic drives motivation to take photos. It is true that you need to have camera that is comfortable to handle for a long period of time, but I don’t think it is number one factor. People can adapt well, beside the motivation to take photos should comes from inside, not because of comfort of the gears.
Weight and Size
Weight and size is important if you plan go on a long travel. Unfortunately, low weight and small size cameras usually do not have protection as good as a heavier ones. Most of entry level cameras are lightweight while more advanced cameras are heavier and bigger.
High ISO speed range
If your camera has high ISO speed range, it does not means that it will produce great quality image at maximum ISO. Most cameras are good up to ISO 1600, after that, the image quality will significantly suffer from digital noises. Exception for full frame cameras like Canon 5D mark ii or Nikon D700. The quality of image are great up to ISO 4000 or even 6400 because full frame camera has significantly bigger sensor.
LCD Screen
Basically, the bigger the screen and the bigger the resolution (920k), are the better. Most new dSLR camera will have 920k. There are also some cameras with swivel LCD screen. This will help users to compose photos in difficult angle and good for video taking.
Continuous shooting
Fast continuous shooting and tracking is feature that you want to look at especially if you are shooting sports or wildlife. Most entry level cameras will have 2.5-4 fps (frames per second), and advanced camera usually have 4-6fps. High-end sports cameras will have 6-10 fps.
Scene mode, in camera post processing, art filters
Variety of presets and in camera modes are helpful if you are not sure or do not understand the basic of photography. But soon you know the basic, scene modes are pretty much useless. Manual, Aperture priority, Shutter priority are the only three modes that you will need for a long time.
Lenses and Accessories
This might be one of the most important factor in buying digital SLR cameras. You definitely want to research about the systems (lenses accessories) before you buy a camera. Don’t buy the camera of a particular brand if you find that they don’t have lenses or accessories you need.
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Sorry, should have mentioned great post! Waiting for the next post!
What test? Where is this at? I’m not saying you’re not right. I’m asking for proof. Please.
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