Weeks ago was my first in a series, Gear Guide & Recommendations {Part 1: Camera Bodies}. Yet, today’s post may be even more fitting as I hope to recommend lenses for any level photographer, from Beginning to Amateur, Advanced Amateur to Professional. It used to be the case that I’d recommend investing most of your…
Almost weekly, I receive requests from other photographers as well as beginners who are interested in what gear I use. Those starting out in the field, whether by hobby or trade, are generally curious my recommendations. I generally suggest the same things, so my responses have become fairly standard. However, I knew it would be…
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@Elizabeth: Thanks! Great question… I initially chose Canon when I was shooting film & bought my first SLR. I don’t know if I had a good reason to select it over Nikon except that it was probably on sale & due to it’s brand recognition… I’ve liked Canon since those Andre Agassi commercials. Ha! Then, when I purchased a DSLR, I chose the Canon because I already had a lens for the 35mm that I could use on the digital camera. So for me, I decided to stick with what I started with. Both Nikon & Canon have distinct advantages. I have many friends & photog heroes who are Nikon users. The placement of controls are so different than Canon that it takes a bit for me to get used to it… neither in my opinion is better, just different. I personally prefer the colors & skin tones of the Canon as well as the assortment of the lenses they offer (plus you can use Nikon lenses on a Canon but not vice-versa). Canon’s lens variety & build is reason enough for me. But, Nikon, in my opinion boasts a more consistent AF (auto-focus) system & the user controls seem more fitting for those starting out in photography. That’s likely why it felt better in your hands; they are fantastic cameras. In most cases I recommend sticking with what you began with; you’ll be familiar with the settings & won’t have to reinvest in lenses. As you grow as a photographer, you’ll continually learn how to max out your camera’s abilities. At that point, you may realize you need to upgrade. I don’t perceive ever switching (pending an endorsement… ha!) but my Nikon friends say the same!
@Tommy: Great to hear from you; thanks for your comment. You bring up some excellent points & nice suggestions. Although I’ve yet to have any problems with the AF in my Mark II, I have heard from others a similar story as your friend. I feel like the AF in the next generation 5D (or the like) is the most needed issue to be addressed. There were times I experienced some soft-focus but it was due to a lens that needed re-calibrated rather than the body. And, you’re absolutely correct, there are much more important things than megapixels… great points!
This is a great resource for those looking at investing in their first DSLR or upgrading. I am curious though, have you experienced any issues with the autofocus system in your 5D Mark II? I first heard about it from Michele Anderson of Pinkle Toes Photography (she wrote a blog posting about it). She had the 5D Mark II and sent it in multiple times and Canon replaced the entire AF system each time, but it never remedied her problem. She ended up switching to Nikon’s D700. After reading of her situation, I researched more and found others to have the same issue with their 5D Mark II.
I have to admit I’m a Nikon shooter, though I have no prejudices against Canon. I find Nikon’s AF systems and low-noise ISO performance to be a bit better, in my opinion. I feel that Nikon puts more emphasis on these traits than megapixels. I mean, the Nikon D3s only has 12.1mp but is probably the low-light king among DSLRs. So, megapixels shouldn’t necessarily be a deciding factor. Nikon has since developed newer sensors however with higher megapixel counts while improving upon it’s ISO performance.
Video is a great feature to have in a DSLR, but I don’t feel that someone should base their decision on a camera body because of it’s video capabilities if they’re only going to use it every now and then. If your focus will be on the video side, then the 5D Mark II is the one you want.
Bottom line, I tell people to go and test the cameras in person before buying. Hold the body, see how it feels in your hands. Also, go through the menu system and see how easy/difficult it is to navigate. These were deciding factors in my decision years ago. The lenses you use are also a great determining factor in getting the images you desire. I look forward to your next post and seeing your thoughts.
This is an excellent review! One question, what made you first choose Canon over Nikon? Did you test them both before you bought? I have a Nikon D60 and tested it alongside the Canon Rebel, and I just liked the feel of the Nikon in my hands. Do you find the features on the Canon to be better than Nikon? Should I choose to upgrade one day in the distant future, this would be pertinent info. 
Who’s up for another “Tips” blog post? Today I wanted to respond to a question from my good friend Heather from Birmingham. She wrote in response to the Aperture blog post: “Ben, this is awesome. One thing I hear a lot of different opinions about is ISO. Maybe you could comment on that sometime? I’ve…
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Your videos are really helpful, and your way of presenting definitely diffuses the tension that can come with trying to learn and apply information. Love it that your filming them in the mirror.
Thanks Ben! That’s definitely helpful to me, especially to encourage me to “think outside the box”. I feel so freed up now to try to use ISO when aperture alone isn’t getting me the shutter speed I need. And yes, I have a new appreciation for the grainy look. It does add a uniqueness to the photo. Thanks so much for answering my question, and so quickly!!
As promised, I thought I would start writing & organizing some content to provide insight on photography, how-to’s, business, resources, etc. Today’s post is in response to a question asked on Facebook concerning depth of field, aka aperture. Chris sent the following: “I have been trying to get some new pictures of our staff here…
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Ben, this is awesome. One thing I hear a lot of different opinions about is ISO. Maybe you could comment on that sometime? I’ve heard some people say that an ISO > 400 is never ideal b/c of “noise” in the background, but if you want an indoor pic sans flash sometimes that’s the only option. Is it possible to use a higher ISO and still get a good quality photo that is able to be enlarged?
Thanks a lot Ben! I took a photography class at UM and remember some of these terms but could never seem to remember what was what or how to use any of that knowledge on a real camera. Your explanation was simple and helpful (a lot less confusing than the class, and less expensive!). I now need to simply try to put your tips into practice, figuring it all out on my camera (I might go read up on my owners manual as you suggested). I will also try to read up on some of the other links you provided. Of course, I might need to go shopping for a new lens now (Erin’s excited about that!!!). Thanks again for your help. If I can start to get this figured out I might send you some pics to see what you think.
Thanks for the tips Ben…I am trying to learn more of these techniques!!! I was gifted a digital about a year ago and I’m still learning all the in and outs!!! Happy Friday!
EXCELLENT, Ben! Best and easiest explanation I’ve ever read or heard! I’m going to share your post link with some friends of mine who’ve been asking me photography questions because yours is more in “laymans” terms! Keep em’ coming!
Isn’t it true we all would wish for increased productivity & efficiency?! I listened yesterday to a TED talk on productivity (via Michael Hyatt’s blog | btw… one of my favorite blogs!!) & the presenter, Jason Fried, argued that “Work doesn’t happen at work.” I was intrigued & it led to a bit of introspection…
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@Jack, thanks! The pen I use is the Pilot V Ball Grip Extra Fine. I usually buy a pack of 3 & they last me quite a while; plus, they’re pretty inexpensive!
Hey, I’ve been looking for a good one for a Moleskine, and the pen that you’re using looks nice. What one do you use?
So will you patent that and send me a give me a copy?!!
You would probably gag if you saw mine…chicken scratch really on a normal spiral lined notebook. It is the only thing that gives me space to wrote down my every-single-thought. I am tempted to take a pic and send it to you. I am o.c.d in a different way. A messier and less legible way. But it is all there and organized in my own way…
Cheers to you and your organized and neat o.c.d. !
And like you…my spiral notebook is also my brain. Except mine has food, coffee, kids drawings in and on it. lol !
If i would just learn a thing or two from this awesome man. my purse might not be a mess..or my makeup bag or my closet shelf…mr. Organization, please address these as I am aware many of your “followers” are women like myself.. I am so blessed to have such a man as my hubs..I a thankful for your o c d…
by Ben Finch
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Ben Finch - @Jared, thanks my friend, that means I’m in good company! @DeAnn, I just sent you a message, hope it helps! @Alan, thanks, I agree, the 50mm is a staple for me! @Tommy, absolutely… the 50mm is my 1st recommendation & thanks for the link for the 105, I updated it in the post. I appreciate your Nikon knowledge… keep me updated!
Tommy Botello - A 50mm is a definite must for anyone beginning in photography. Even if it’s an inexpensive f1.8, it’s great to learn with. In regards to a comparable Nikon Macro lens, Nikon has the 105mm f2.8.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/424744-USA/Nikon_2160_105mm_f_2_8G_ED_IF_AF_S.html
Alan Brock - Nice post with good information! Everyone should own a 50mm of some sort.
DeAnn - Thanks for the recommendations! My friend Heather McElligott introduced me to your blog. I have a Canon 5D Mark II and recently purchased an 85/1.2. I like it alot, but I seem to have difficulty mastering the focus. Any recommendations (other than practice)?
Jared Wilson Photography - We have very similar tastes.