Camera Guide
When it comes to picking a camera there are a LOT of options out there. It's a tough decision that if not correctly made can lead to some pretty bad images. It's very important to get a good camera body, but if your budget is tight, start out with some great glass. Lenses will last far longer than camera bodies and it's better to get good glass from the start rather than waste all your money on a good body with cheap glass.
The first thing you must know is that it doesn't matter whether you go Nikon or Canon. We use both here at APS and are very happy with the results. Head to a store and try out each to see which has controls that make more sense. Maybe you'll even want to go Sony or Pentax, who knows, it's a crazy world out there and you're probably crazy too!
BEGINNER CAMERAS
Here are the top two entry level (and entry priced) cameras for action photographers just starting out:
| Nikon D5000– with 4 FPS |
Canon Rebel T2i– 3.7 FPS |
Either of these cameras will get you off to a quick start at an affordable price.
* Note * The prices listed on Canon's site for the T2i is more expensive because it lists the model that comes with a lens. The camera without a lens is similarly priced to the Nikon.
INTERMEDIATE CAMERAS
If you already know your way around a camera and are feeling pretty serious, these cameras will bring you to the next level and can be used professionally. They may cost more, but feature a ton of awesome action stopping features. These weather sealed bodies will ensure your cameras life in extreme conditions.
| Canon 7D– 8 FPS | Nikon D300S– 7 FPS |
PROFESSIONAL GRADE CAMERAS
Do you earn a living off your photography? If not, step back to the intermediate level cameras….. These both offer the fastest auto-focus on the market with fully weather-sealed bodies and EXTREME ISO performance!
| Nikon D3S – 9 FPS | Canon 1D Mark IV– 10 FPS |
Closing thoughts: There are a LOT of great cameras out there, these are just our favorites for each category from Nikon and Canon. It is easier to control more expensive cameras, however, it's the skill behind the camera that matters. If you don't have skills yet, get a camera, and head on over to the capture training section.
[…] Shutter speed is possibly the most important setting to understand for capturing action photography. Choose a speed that’s too slow and your images will come out blurry. This is a common problem if you’ve been shooting with a point-and-shoot. That’s why we recommend looking into purchasing a DSLR like the one’s found in our camera guide. […]