Choosing which camera to purchase can be a daunting task. The market is filled with options and the descriptions are filled with confusing terms and numbers. The first thing you need to determine is what kinds of photos you’ll be taking as a professional photographer. Will you be shooting mostly weddings, senior pictures, newborn babies, or landscapes? Narrowing down your purpose will help you find a camera suited to your needs.
Shutter Speed
If you are going to be shooting a lot of outside sports you need a camera that has fast shutter speed capabilities. This will keep your photos from having motion blur. It’s in your best interest to spring for an entry level DSLR camera like a Canon Rebel t3i or Nikon d5100 instead of a point-and-shoot for fast moving subjects. This will give you more control of your focus points and the ability to keep your shutter speed fast to freeze your subject in action. You will want to keep your shutter speed at 1/1000 or higher to completely capture the moment without any blur from the motion.
HD Video
Cameras that are capable of taking HD video can be great for sports videos. Use a tripod to avoid shaky footage. Both the Nikon and Canon camera have a sports setting that can make it easier to achieve a fast shutter speed for better sports photos.
Choose an Appropriate Lens
It is a good idea to buy a DSLR for newborn and child photography as well. You may want to get a lens that’s suited for portrait photography. If you’re just starting out, check out the 50mm 1.8 lenses for a Canon or Nikon mount. This lens will cost you around $100 and is a great starting prime lens. A prime lens has a fixed focal length and doesn't have the capability to zoom. Prime lenses are known for taking sharp images and have larger maximum aperture which helps achieve that blurred background you see in portraits.
ISO Capabilities
If you are planning on shooting in conditions with low light, then it's best to get a camera with ISO capabilities. ISO is a camera’s level of sensitivity to available light. When you have low light you need to raise your ISO settings, which can lead to grain or noise in photos taken with a camera that doesn't perform well at higher ISO settings. The Nikon D3300 and Canon t5i are great options if you’ll be taking pictures in low light.
