If you've been using a point and shoot and are considering taking the step up to an SLR (single lens reflex) camera, be prepared with some basic knowledge. First, you should understand what SLR means. Learn some basic tips on how to handle your new acquisition. It's a more complicated camera and is the camera of choice for serious minded photographers. The accessories for the SLR are also more elaborate than the point and shoot, including the camera bag you'll select.
What is an SLR? It's a single-lens reflex camera. It operates by using the same lens to view and take the picture. A mirror in the camera directs the light from the lens to a prism and then swings out of the way just in time for the shot to be taken. That's why your viewfinder goes black when you press the shutter release.
It may sound strange, but all cameras are not created equal when it comes to the best way to hold it when taking your shots. If you wanted, you could take a picture with your point and shoot by easily holding the camera with one hand. Not so with an SLR, it's a bigger and a bit heavier. Add to that the weight of a lens and battery pack and holding the camera steady will require both hands. You can always use a tripod, but it's not always convenient to carry one around the entire time you're out on a photo shoot.
Your right hand does the majority of the work involving the settings and actually taking the photos. The left hand is important in other ways. It operates the mode dial which is located on the top left of the camera. Also, very importantly it provides the support and helps steady the camera. Held properly, the lens should be resting on your left thumb and forefinger, so the left hand will also be operating the lens settings. Holding the camera in this way, gives you good balance and allows you to take all the pictures you want, without tiring. If you're carrying the right camera bag, such as a backpack, you'll be able to photograph all day long.
As a novice SLR owner, start out holding your camera in this manner. As you become more comfortable and experienced with your equipment, your may find yourself in situations that call for you to hold your camera with one hand. Hopefully, by that time you will have mastered the operation of your SLR and you'll be able to take the occasional shot successfully using one hand.
Now for the accessories for your SLR. You always want to make sure you have enough memory cards. There's nothing worse than being out taking pictures and run out of memory. Another necessary accessory is the tripod. Add a wide angle and a telephoto lens to your equipment and you've got a pretty complete beginners SLR camera system.
Now that you've got all the equipment you need to complete your camera system, the final, an very important accessory is your camera bag. You want to purchase a bag that's going to fit all your equipment comfortably with a little extra room for an item or two you may want to take along. A camera bag that's not too big or too small. You don't want your equipment moving around too much in a bag that's too big. A bag that has a lens cradle to protect one of your primary investments. Look for quality, water resistant fabric, sturdy stitching, and soft lining to protect all your delicate equipment. Select a bag that has features that will suit the type of photography you plan on doing. Then just load up your new camera bag and start testing the waters with your new SLR.
