Why You Should Start With a DSLR
Contrary to what almost every photography youtuber will tell you, you dont need an expensive camera or a million accessories to get started on your digital photography journey. Allow me to explain.
If you searched on YouTube right now for “best beginner digital cameras” chances are that you’d be bombarded with videos telling you to spend at minimum $500 to get something that would allow you to produce good quality photos, and I’m here to tell you, despite my personal gear addiction, thats not the case.
The truth is that most people who are just getting started in digital photography probably are not wanting to spend upwards of $1000 to get kitted out for a hobby that might not pan out for them. The good news is that you dont need to spend nearly that amount in reality. The solution: Used DSLRs.
What were the top of the line digital cameras a few years ago can now be had for less than you would spend for just a lens on most new camera bodies. The Rebel T6 pictured above is a great example, available for around $220 used in excellent condition from a few reputable sources. But why would you want to buy a camera from 2016 you ask? There are a few things that old DSLRs offer that are actually really appealing to the exploratory photographer
#1 Value
As we explored above, you could snag a used T6 body for around $220, but thats just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to money savings. This camera offers access to a generation of Canon lenses that are now “old” in the eyes of a public that always wants the latest and greatest, and that means you can get them at a great value. I picked up a like new 50mm EF lens for under $100, compared to my RF 50mm which was over $300. Not only are the older lenses cheap to build out your kit with, if you upgrade to a new body in the future they can continue to be used via an adapter. Lenses aren’t the only place you’ll save money though, since these cameras are no longer in production, the third party accessories like cages, cases, and grips can be had for much less than the equivalent for a newer body.
#2 Simplicity
Probably in my opinion the greatest selling point of an older camera body is their simplicity. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of a new camera, that can be a blessing in disguise. Without a million AI features and programmable buttons, older DSLRs allow a new photographer to learn how each of the core camera settings (Aperture, Shutter Speed, & ISO) impact their end product. As a platform for mastering the basics, which any professional photographer will tell you is critical in producing a good photo, old cameras cant be beat. For those stats junkies who look at the megapixel number on a camera and think “I have to have more” let me assure you, 18mp is plenty when you’re starting out.
#3 Adaptability/Modification
While not everyone’s cup of tea, it seems like the community of tinkerers grows larger every day. Older cameras, being often more simple in design both physically and from a software standpoint are prime candidates for modification and hacking. There are whole forums dedicated to changing up your camera to suit your specific needs, and a host of third party companies willing to do the changes for you for a fee. Personally I have a Canon T5 that has been converted to shoot infrared by KolariVision. I would never think of sending off a $1000+ new camera for that mod, but something that cost me around $200? Sure!
In conclusion, there are plenty of reasons to start off with a simple, inexpensive, and easy to use (by comparison) DSLR camera. I hope you found this post helpful. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions or want to talk gear!
