Lets talk equipment today, and I’ll share with you a little peek inside my camera bag at my camera body and lenses. Photography is an overwhelming hobby in many aspects. First, you have to figure out what camera to buy, then teach yourself how to use said camera, then there is gear and all sorts of other fun stuff to learn to improve your photography. It can make ones’ head spin. I’ve got opinions on cameras and lenses, that I hope will help some of you decide what will help you best.
{Camera bag by Jill-e}
What camera?
I remember when I started out in 2002, trying to figure out what camera to buy made me want to poke my eyeballs out, and cry a thousand tears at the same time…I was so overwhelmed with the options! I wanted someone to just do it for me. Well, I’m here to offer my tips today. If you remember just one thing from this post, know that: The camera body is less important than the camera lens. With that said, lets talk bodies.
Canon or Nikon–period. Either brand is an excellent option, but I’d stick to one of the two. There is Olympus and Fugi, and other lines, and they may be less expensive, but it is because (from my understanding) there are few lens options, etc. In my experience with a whole slew of professional photographers, they are one of two parties: Nikon or Canon. If you truly want to learn photography, you will want an SLR, which allows you to change your lenses.
My husband likes to try to get me all up in arms about being “pro-Canon,” but in reality, I know that Nikons are equally excellent. I’ve seen pro’s hop from Canon to Nikon and Nikon to Canon depending on who came out with the next best thing first. I ALMOST hopped from Canon to Nikon years ago, because I love the sound of the shutter on a Nikon–it’s different–music to my ears. Strange, I know.
Once you decide on the brand, you now have to decide on the model. There are varying tiers with camera bodies. I started with a Canon Rebel many years ago because it was the most affordable, basic body. I think it was $600 and comparable to today’s Tii’s and such. I really don’t know a lot of difference in all of the models, but I suggest starting with a lower model if budget is a major factor.
With Canons the beginner tier is the Rebels/Tii’s. Then you have the 50D range, then the more pro bodies are 5D, 5D markIII, etc. I went from a Canon Rebel in 2003 to a Canon 20D in 2005, and have used my Canon 5D since 2008. Now that the Mark III is out, I have been looking into the Mark II, but I’m in no hurry.
I see TWO big reasons to upgrade to a higher level body model: 1) You plan to shoot professionally–you don’t want to have a lower model than the people you are photographing. 2) You plan to shoot a lot inside in dark rooms (live in gloomy winters with little window light). The ISO capabilities are much more impressive, the more pro you go.
Sidenote about clothing: Below is my photographer “uniform” that I wear when I shoot portrait sessions. I had a shirt made with my logo, and it’s just easy to put that on, instead of trying to figure out what to wear. I also have a pretty turquoise Jo Totes camera bag. Though my blog is “Capturing Joy” I still refer to my portrait business as “Kristen Duke Photography.”
What about lenses?
Those that have read my book, Say NO to Auto, will recall my recommendation of purchasing a 50 mm fixed lens for portraits. It’s all over the photography industry, that a 50 mm lens is a great starting out tool, and you will see a big difference when you shoot with it over the kits lens.
Which brings me to an important point: What’s up with the kit lens? I used to recommend against getting a “kit” when purchasing your camera, and just ordering the camera BODY and the 50 mm lens. However, beginners might be frustrated with the fixed nature of the lens: it doesn’t zoom in and out, YOU are the zoom. Though some photographers refer to the kit lens as c.r.a.p., I don’t want to say NOT to get it, then have you frustrated that you can’t take a picture of a building because your 50 mm lens doesn’t zoom out–make sense?
Plus, people weren’t listening to me because purchasing the camera in a kit is a better value–monetarily speaking. I hate to say, “I told you so” but I have heard people tell me, “you told me so, but I didn’t listen” because they got suckered into the marketing plan that involves the kit lens and a zoom or something else. If I had my way, and there was flexibility in the budget, I’d suggest 1) camera body 2) 50 mm lens 3) Tamron 28-75 mm lens. It’s an affordable all purpose lens, comparable to the kit lens–but better glass and make-up.
{When shopping for the 50 mm lens online, you will see 1.8 for around $100 and the 1.4 for $300. I started with the 1.8, then later upgraded to the 1.4. It is a stronger build, but the 1.8 was perfect to start with.}
I wish I could say that there was ONE perfect lens, but there isn’t. At any given photo session, I’ll switch my lenses a few different times for different reasons. Though I shot with my 50 mm lens for 2 years exclusively, my MAIN LENS LOVE is the 85 mm lens, 1.8. I’ll get more depth of field at the same settings as I would with my 50, but it is SUPER zoomed in, and takes some getting used to, that I have to step so far back. I also recently purchased the 35 mm 2.0, and enjoy how wide it is compared to my 85 mm. In my book, Get Focused, I talk a lot about the difference with these lenses, and show how the focal distances compare. I also have my zoom lens that I love for sports. I used it for portraits for a while (it is my most expensive lens) but found it wasn’t as tack sharp as my fixed lenses, and only use it when I need the distance now. It is a 70-200 mm 4.0 IS lens. Lastly, I use my Tamron 28-75 mm 2.8 lens as my “all purpose” travel lens. Not as sharp, but gets the job done.
Anything else?
That’s about it. I don’t use light meters or pocket wizards or reflectors. I always have extra camera batteries, and my preference is to shoot 1 family session on a 4 gb CF card–it gives me about 250 RAW images. I also like to keep Smarties candy on hand, it’s a great/clean/easy treat for kids of all ages. I also keep a ball or a rattle toy to help get little ones (or dogs) attention.
I’ll end with a pretty picture I took (and watermarked with my old logo) a while ago. The lens and settings I used are below.
Did I answer questions you had previously? If you need clarifying or have other questions, please feel free to ask in the comments, and I will answer there as well.
If you found this post helpful, check out my other posts with photography tips:
How to start a Photography Business
Say NO to Auto beginner photography book
What to Wear in Family Portraits
How to Shoot a great silhouette
Using the Foreground to Frame your Shot
If you have a fancy camera that you don’t know how to use, check out my books!
Kristen Duke
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Your comment amount the sound of the shutter made me giggle. The “sound of the shutter” was exactly why I wanted the Canon! In the end, I purchased the Nikon D3100 because the body fit into my hands more comfortably.
Isn’t that funny?!?
I noticed a difference on the Nikon as well although I am a Canon girl myself.
I noticed a difference on the Nikon as well although I am a Canon girl myself. I do have a 50mm lens and I love it. My all purpose zoom is on the fritz and a new lens for Christmas is on my list. Thanks for the tips. I’m due for a refresher course with my Say No To Auto and then I may have to dive deeper and Get Focused. Your suggestions are very helpful.
Love both of your camera bags! Thanks for the awesome tips, I have learned so much from you. Keep them coming
Thank you so much, Kim, that makes me happy to hear!
I would probably consider a camera for the sound of it too! Until better sense would kick in. Thanks for the info. I’ve got other savings goals to meet first, but someday…It’s good to know what I need to be looking for.
Yes, well, that was AFTER I had my rebel, and I would have had to hop platforms…meaning sell all my current stuff…didn’t see practical at all!
Thanks for the info! I see that you recommend a tamron lens. Can you tell me more about your experience with “off brand” lenses? We are having a debate in our house- I am considering some Tamron or Sigma lenses to reduce cost, but my husband is in the strictly Nikon camp. The price differences can be significant. Any thoughts?
The main reason I was ok with going with the Tamron vs. spending more money on a brand is because I really prefer a fixed lens for crispness in my images and I figured it would be fore “all purpose” and less for portraits for my business. I do notice that the glass isn’t as clear, but I am only using it for pull-back building type shots, and don’t see the need to invest for images like that. I only notice a difference when they are close up shots, which I rarely use it for. Hope that helps!
I love how open you are to “free” tips and recommendations. Some Photographers that I’ve talked to, don’t like to give out so much useful and helpful information? I guess they’re slightly intimidated by me ; ) Anyway, thanks again for letting us peek inside your bag.
Yeah, it can be a fine line with local photographers (my assumption), but I’ve learned to embrace my local photogs, and we help each other out and learn from each other! I’m happy to help any time, Tracy;)
I have a 50mm fixed lens and I take it exclusively with me on vaca. ,I LOVE this lens. Bit it is a little frustrating when you pass off your camera (such as on our Disney cruise when I would hand it off to the photographers and jump in a photo) and they get all confused and say it doesn’t zoom what is wrong with your camera? You try and yell that it’s a non zoom lens but people don’t understand and you stand there like an idiot with a broken camera. Ugh.
Ha, that’s funny, Connie….it’s true that it causes confusion for those that don’t get it. I remember being confused when I first got that lens myself!
So, I have a Nikon p510…so no switching lenses for me, and that’s totally fine with where I am in my photography. I actually am wondering if you have any suggestions for tripods? Is there anything I should be looking for really, or are they generally the same? Thanks!!
I’m not too informed on tripods, but from what I understand, they are pretty universal across all camera types with a little screw opening on the bottom of cameras. I have had a super cheap/lightweight tripod for years, and it’s been great. Found at Ritz/Inkleys camera store.
Ok great–thanks! I just wanted to make sure I wasn’t overlooking some key point about them.
I love your comment about the Nikon shutter sound!! I have a Canon too and I envy that Nikon sound! I totally know what you’re talking about!
Glad to hear I’m not alone AND crazy!!!
Thanks for the great tips! I too love Canon and as my passion is shooting sports, my favorite lens was a 70-200 2.8 that I accidentally dropped not too long ago and cracked. I’ve had it for years and certainly have gotten a lot of use out of it, but that didn’t lessen the blow! It was great indoors and out. Thanks for sharing!
Yes, that lens is a beauty! I rented it once, and it was so darn heavy, I opted for the lighter version in the 4.0:) I hope you can get a new one soon!
Your timing couldn’t have been better!! I’m in the process of purchasing my 1st dslr and yes pulling my hair out at the same time! Trying to figure out what I need and boy the “kits” are just what I was going to go w/ thinking I’ll get what I need in one deal. So glad I held off. I’m doing more research and downloading your ebooks, which I hopefully will be able to read on my kindle fire! Thank you for the putting the information out there in laymen’s terms!
I’m just looking to take pictures of our life (the kids, dogs, trips, home, etc.). If you weren’t a professional, what would you start out with? My husband was asking about a remote so I could perhaps get in a shot. Right now there are no pics of me.
ty
Yes, you do NEED to be in pictures!!! I would suggest starting with a Canon Rebel, and if it has video (newer model) that is a bonus.
I bought my nikon d3100 and it came with the kit and a basic 55-200 lens. My hubby bought me the 50mm for my anniversary and it rarely ever comes off!! I just recently purchased a d90 body and I want to get another lens. Maybe the 85mm, I would really like that. I do see the difference in the ISO range of both cameras, my d90 has more options. Hopefully I can upgrade to the d300 next year. Searching lenses and camera bodies is equivalent to my kids being in a candy store. I really appreciate all your great tips and I’ve enjoyed both of your books. I recommend it to all of my friends who want to shoot in manual. Once you go to manual mode you can’t go back!!
Happy to help!!! I agree, shopping lenses is fun…just a tad more pricey than candy!
Hi! Just found your blog through Pintrest and love it! Thank you so much for all the information. I’m wondering which lens would be good to use indoors during the holidays when the lighting is not so good?
Thank you!
Inside, you’ll want something wide and with a low aperture. I love my 35mm 2.0 fixed lens inside.
Do you take most of your outdoor pics with your 50mm?
I use mostly my 85mm outdoor because I have more space to move back, and it gives more depth of field (blur) to the background.
Hi Kristen!
So I bought the 35mm 2.0 today and have been testing it out in the house with my kiddos this evening. Should I have my camera setting on Auto or AV? Also, what lens did you use to take the family pics that you post on Nov 7th. I have the 85mm. All I like to take pictures of are my kids…11, 9 and 2. I seem to have a terrible time getting my pics to be very clear/crisp. Maybe that is do to them moving? Any tips/help is greatly appreciated! Thanks!
I only shoot on manual. You gotta make sure your shutter speed isn’t too slow if your images aren’t clear, and pick a focal point. Have you seen my books? They might be helpful.
Which book would you recommend first?
Thanks Kristen for posting your advice. I’ve been admiring your photos for like, evah – just gorgeous! I have this linked to my post today on blogging and photography for the beginner, for inspiration!
Thank you, Heather, I’ll go check it out!
Hi Kristen,
I somehow stumbled across your blog and am loving the info! I’ve been saving for a new camera and am debating between the Canon T3i and the Nikon 5100. I’ve also heard good things about Sony’s newer A57 – different technology doesn’t make it a ‘true’ DSLR though I guess… anyway, i love taking pictures and my goal is to learn more about photography mostly for personal use – family & life. Any thoughts about what to get for starters as far as lens? Canon makes an 18-135 kit lens that is tempting. I’d love to get a 1.8 lens… not sure what size (50, 80, etc…) Any thoughts? tips? ideas? thanks!!
-Renee
Hi Renee! I’d definitely start with a 50mm 1.8 lens. At $125, it’s an amazing lens! Good luck in your journey, I have beginner photo books that will help you if you want to start the right way;)
So you think body only + 50/1.8 or do you think getting the 18-55 kit lens is worth it? Also I’ve read some good reviews on a 35/1.8… Nikon’s is just about $200. What do you think about 35 vs 50?
Thanks for replying so quick! all this research is making my head spin
I’m so glad to have the input of someone who takes such beautiful pictures…
Hmmm, that’s tough. 50mm is a great portrait lens, but it isn’t wide for a room setting. 35mm is wider. I might say to get that, and yes, skip the 18-55 altogether.
Hello again,
I am officially purchasing today. i can get the 35mm/2.0 AND/ OR the 50/1.8. (canon)
Do you see an advantage to having both?
(To get the 50/1.8 and add the 35/2.0 is a very low price difference with a discount I’m using.) But if it’s not worth it to have both, then it’s not worth it even if it is really cheap.
Thoughts?!?
You’re blog is so informative, and I truly appreciate it as a new photographer. I’ve noticed that many photographers take these beautiful pictures of couples running through fields, or standing next to a huge building or even in a cathedral ceiling church and they are able to capture almost all of the surrounding. I think they use an extreme wide angle lens, but I’m not 100% sure. Do you have this type of lens or would you recommend a good lens for capture a lot of the background but still having the client in focus and up close? I have a Nikon D7000. Any feedback is appreciated. Again, thank you for the great posts!
-Mary B.
Thank you so much, I’m glad this was helpful! A wide lens would definitely help. I have a 35mm fixed lens, but I know that some have 18mm lenses.
Hi Kristen! I shoot with a Canon Rebel T3 and a 5omm/1.8 lens. I find that more often than not that my photos are not crisp. I’m wondering if it’s because of an unsteady hand or the lower level of my camera body…or possibly something else I don’t know about. I’m wanting to upgrade my body (for the reasons you stated above) as I think I could possibly pursue family photography at some point…however, I think I should figure out this issue first. Any ideas why this would be happening?
One more question…do you think a Canon 7D would be sufficient for my little hopes of deveoping my photography to the next level?
Thanks so much, Kristen!
Hi there, Kristen! Not crisp images can be multiple reasons. Do you have my book, Say NO to Auto? I talk about some of these reasons in there, but in a nutshell, too low of a shutter speed with do that. In my second book, Get Focused, I go into detail about getting crisper images with lenses, how you set your focus and such. It can be multiple reasons. Hope that isn’t frustrating! If you’d like to set up a mentoring session, you can send me some images and I’ll discuss them with you. I think the 7D is a great camera body, but lenses are what get good images ( and knowing your camera well).
Hi Kristen,
I love popping into your site and reading about your life. Loved your holiday family shoot. Anyway…I have a question regarding a lens for shooting video.
I have a Canon T2i and a 50mm plus the kit lens. I’m starting to shoot close-up video (children working on art) and I’m having a hard time focusing with the 50 mm. I need to shoot quickly and on the fly so set-up time is scarce. The kit lens doesn’t feel sharp or bright enough. I’ve heard videographers say they like the 24 and 35 for shooting video. Any recommendations?
Patty, I don’t play much with video, it’s a goal of mine though! I’d say the 35mm lens will give you more allowance to get closer sharp images. I love my 35 for still!
I purchased a bag from best buy when I bought my camera, paid 60 dollars for it. After so, I found jo bags. I love the rose teal bag that you have and only twenty or so more dollars. Im so dissappointed.
Thank you so much for all your tips! I have fond them super helpful! I was just wondering what your opinion was on the 1.8 vs. 1.4 50mm lenses. I’ve had a Canon Rebel t3 (and the kit lens) for about a year now, and just looking to upgrade a little. Do you think the 1.4 is worth the extra $?
the 1.4 is better glass which will give an overall lovlier images, but I always say to start with the 1.8 for a while, then upgrade and sell once you feel comfortable with it.