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<title>DIY Craft Photography</title>
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<title>Samsung NX300 Camera Review and Sample Photos with Kit Lens</title>
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<dc:creator><![CDATA[M. Johnson]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Nov 2014 00:30:28 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Cameras & Equipment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mirrorless Cameras]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[My Equipment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[kit lens]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mirrorless]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[NX300]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[nx300 lenses]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[nx300 sample photos]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[nx300 shooting modes]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[sample photos]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Samsung]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Samsung NX300 review]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[unboxing]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">/?p=1676</guid>
<description><![CDATA[In this review: hands-on with the new Samsung NX300 mirrorless camera. This is my first mirrorless camera and so far I’m impressed. Samsung isn’t the biggest name in cameras right now, but after a weekend of pointing this camera at virtually everything in sight I think they really ought to be. Read on as I share...</p><p><a class="more-link" href="/samsung-nx300-review-and-sample-photos/">Read More</a></p>]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><b>In this review: hands-on with the new Samsung NX300 mirrorless camera. </b></p>
<p>This is my first mirrorless camera and so far I’m impressed. Samsung isn’t the biggest name in cameras right now, but after a weekend of pointing this camera at virtually everything in sight I think they really ought to be.</p>
<p>Read on as I share my first impressions and sample photos with you in this big, long, <strong>super detailed</strong> review!</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_front.jpg"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1000" height="750" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_front.jpg" alt="samsung_nx_300_front" class="wp-image-1695" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_front.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_front-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p><em>Just so it’s clear, I was not paid or perked to write this review. I picked this camera on my own, paid for it myself, and am writing this review because I think the camera is awesome and wish a review like this existed when I bought mine! (It’ll also save me some trouble when friends ask me about the camera if I can just link them here. :D) </em></p>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Samsung NX300 Camera Review: The Short Version</h1>
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<h2 class="amazin-pros-and-cons-box-title">Samsung NX300</h2>
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<h3 class="amazin-pros-and-cons-box-label amazin-pros-label">Love</h3>
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<li >Slimmer, lighter, and faster than DSLRs in same price category</li>
<li >Under $500</li>
<li >Fast boot up and write speed</li>
<li >Fantastic kit lens and photo quality</li>
<li >Manual mode and preset auto modes</li>
<li >Easy photo transfer over WiFi to computers and smartphones</li>
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<li >Short battery cable</li>
<li >Must charge battery inside the camera</li>
<li >Samsung discontinued the iOS app <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f641.png" alt="🙁" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></li>
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<a href="https://amzn.to/2tKl3zj" class="amazin-pros-and-cons-box-button" >See it on Amazon.com</a>
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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Samsung NX300 Camera Review</h1>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Choosing the NX300</h2>
<p>First off, you might notice that <strong>this is a mirrorless camera</strong>, not a DSLR. The difference is in the design. Mirrorless cameras allow light to hit the sensor directly, rather than via a mirror inside the camera. The lack of a mirror makes the <strong>camera body slimmer and lighter</strong> (sweet!), and many mirrorless cameras shoot faster than DSLR cameras. but in order to preview the image you must look at an LCD screen on the back rather than through a viewfinder like you can on a DSLR.</p>
<p>To learn more about the differences, <a href="http://www.tomsguide.com/us/dslr-vs-mirrorless-cameras,news-17736.html">check out this DSLR vs. mirrorless comparison on Tom’s Guide</a>.</p>
<p>Bending/straining to look through a viewfinder isn’t my idea of a good time, so I would be using an LCD even if the camera had a viewfinder. The NX300 has <strong>a big flip-out LCD screen</strong>, which my back and neck are super happy for. Here it is at about 45 degrees (it can go all the way flat, too).</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_screen_tilt.jpg"><img decoding="async" width="1000" height="750" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_screen_tilt.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_screen_tilt" class="wp-image-1709" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_screen_tilt.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_screen_tilt-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a><figcaption>NX300 flip out screen action!</figcaption></figure></div>
<p>Mirrorless cameras used to lag behind DSLRs in terms of visual quality and lens variety, but they seem to have caught up in both regards, or at least they’ve caught up enough for my purposes (photographing crafts for Etsy, stuff for eBay, family vacations, pics of my dog, etc). More and more photographers are choosing mirrorless, so I wanted to try a mirrorless for myself.</p>
<p>I chose the Samsung NX300 over other mirrorless cameras like it for the following reasons:</p>
<ul><li><strong>Price point:</strong> Just under $500 for body and kit lens</li><li><strong>WiFi enabled:</strong> Still a rare feature on DSLRs, WiFi lets me transfer photos quickly and painlessly from camera to computer and/or smartphone</li><li><strong>Excellent reviews:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00COZRKCK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00COZRKCK&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=YUNLA3BJMPDES2TF">check ’em out on Amazon.com</a> (at the time of my purchase, this camera was also Amazon’s best seller in the compact system camera category)</li><li><strong>Huge flip-out touch screen on the back:</strong> It’s bright and beautiful, and faster to update than my smartphone camera’s preview (!). It’s also great for shooting low without bending uncomfortably.</li><li><strong>Rechargeable battery</strong>: I’d rather recharge than replace.</li></ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Unboxing</h2>
<p>The box is pretty classy looking: thick dark-colored cardboard, well-packed, and the camera and cables come individually bagged. At least, that’s what it looked like as I popped it open as fast as I could to get at the prize inside.</p>
<p>This camera is <strong>gorgeous</strong>. Its body is made of a nice faux black leather and its dials are stainless steel. It has a wonderful heft in my hands. I have larger than average hands, but I don’t find the buttons to be too small.</p>
<p>Here are some manufacturer photos of the camera, since my iPhone 4S photos don’t look nearly as good.</p>
<p><strong>NX300 front (with detachable 18-55mm kit lens):</strong></p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_front_side.jpg"><img decoding="async" width="1000" height="1000" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_front_side.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_front_side" class="wp-image-1685" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_front_side.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_front_side-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_front_side-300x300.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p><strong>NX300 back (with flip out screen action):</strong></p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_backside1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1025" height="802" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_backside1.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_backside" class="wp-image-1686" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_backside1.jpg 1025w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_backside1-300x234.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_backside1-1024x801.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 1025px) 100vw, 1025px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>Attaching the kit lens was a snap: just hold it up and twist and it locked on. It’s very retro in its design and reminds me a lot of my Dad’s old <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_AE-1">Canon AE-1</a> (also the first “real camera” I ever shot with as a kid).</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">User Interface</h2>
<p>I’ve used digital cameras for years and I was able to jump right into the NX300’s menus. Compared with some DSLRs I’ve tried, I think this Samsung has a better menu system. I didn’t even have to open the manual, I just turned the camera on and from the labels and buttons alone I could figure out how to start shooting.</p>
<p>Speaking of which…</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">First Shots</h2>
<p>Like most people with a new camera, as soon as I knew how to shoot a photo with it I immediately ran off in search of something remotely interesting to shoot.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/samsung_nx300_photo_dog_portrait.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/samsung_nx300_photo_dog_portrait.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_photo_dog_portrait" class="wp-image-1677" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/samsung_nx300_photo_dog_portrait.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/samsung_nx300_photo_dog_portrait-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>I think my first batch of NX300 pics turned out AMAZING, especially since I put <em>no effort</em> whatsoever into lighting conditions. It’s winter here in the Pacific Northwest and the sun sets pretty early, so I my first shots were indoors with desk lamps and computer monitors as my primary light sources.</p>
<p>My dog Gadget was just as curious about my new camera as I was! She was sitting fairly still for this shot, but being a dog of course she’s a rather fidgety and prone to sudden movement so I was impressed with the NX300’s ability to keep up with my rapid-fire shooting and focus adjustments. Gadget is usually a blur in low light on point and shoot cameras, so the fact that this shot came out clear at all is pretty amazing to me.</p>
<p>Every hair on her head is crisp and sharp, even at the smallest photo resolution. The blankets are softly out of focus. And the lighting – wow. The room was pretty dim, and I think this shot would’ve been mostly grain had I taken it with my iPhone or Canon PowerShot without a tripod and longer exposure time.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_closeup_shot_dog.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_closeup_shot_dog.jpg" alt="samsung_nx_300_closeup_shot_dog" class="wp-image-1699" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_closeup_shot_dog.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_closeup_shot_dog-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>The star of this next shot is one of my recent Etsy finds! (Blogging about Etsy entitles one to shop on Etsy, of course.) It’s a plush USA map ornament made by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/WoldyWorld?ref=l2-shopheader-name">WoldyWorld</a>.</p>
<p>Here, the ornament is backlit – the Christmas tree was probably the room’s brightest light source, and like the photos of my dog above, this shot also turned out way better than I expected. There’s no way I could have taken a photo like this without a tripod with my point and shoot, but the NX300 handled the low lighting with ease. I love the blurred background lights and the crisp rim lights on the edges of the ornament.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_sample_photo_indoors_christmas_tree_lights_ornament.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_sample_photo_indoors_christmas_tree_lights_ornament.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_sample_photo_indoors_christmas_tree_lights_ornament" class="wp-image-1689" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_sample_photo_indoors_christmas_tree_lights_ornament.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_sample_photo_indoors_christmas_tree_lights_ornament-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>My shooting frenzy resumed in the morning. Neighborhood landscaping provided plenty of interesting photography subjects.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_close_up_berries_nature_shot.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_close_up_berries_nature_shot.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_close_up_berries_nature_shot" class="wp-image-1688" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_close_up_berries_nature_shot.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_close_up_berries_nature_shot-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>And Gadget’s back, of course – she’s probably my favorite thing to point my new camera at!</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_dog_outside_daylight_sample_photo.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_dog_outside_daylight_sample_photo.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_dog_outside_daylight_sample_photo" class="wp-image-1687" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_dog_outside_daylight_sample_photo.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_dog_outside_daylight_sample_photo-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>How about something tiny? Even with the kit lens, I was able to focus in on one HotWheels car, letting the other one fall out of focus. I was really impressed that I didn’t have to buy a different lens to achieve this effect. This photo (and all the other photos in this review) was taken with the 18-55mm kit lens!</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_focusing.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="342" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_focusing.jpg" alt="samsung_nx_300_focusing" class="wp-image-1697" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_focusing.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_focusing-300x102.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>Portraits of people look great with the NX300. Here’s a shot of my husband taken in aperture priority mode.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_portrait.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_portrait.jpg" alt="samsung_nx_300_portrait" class="wp-image-1702" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_portrait.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_portrait-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>And finally, a few small items that might be similar to handmade crafts you’d sell on Etsy. (These plush veggies are from IKEA.)</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_ikea_veggies_photo_sample.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_ikea_veggies_photo_sample.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_ikea_veggies_photo_sample" class="wp-image-1700" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_ikea_veggies_photo_sample.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_ikea_veggies_photo_sample-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>Heck, even glittery threads and fabrics look good! Both pumpkins are made with black fabric, but the camera captures the dark fabric’s details beautifully and without noise.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_sample_photos_plush_pumpkins.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_sample_photos_plush_pumpkins.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_sample_photos_plush_pumpkins" class="wp-image-1701" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_sample_photos_plush_pumpkins.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_sample_photos_plush_pumpkins-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Photo Transfer & WiFi Connectivity</h2>
<p>Once I got my iPhone 4s, I found that I used my Canon ELPH point and shoot less and less. It’s not that there was anything wrong with the Canon, it was just SO MUCH easier to get photos off my iPhone than it was to take out the Canon’s SD card, crawl under my desk, copy/paste the photos over, and then (hopefully) remember to put the SD card back into the camera.</p>
<p>WiFi transfer isn’t a common feature yet on mirrorless and DSLRs, but <em>it should be</em>. <strong>Transferring photos over WiFi is THE BEST.</strong> Seriously folks, I’m ruined. Getting photos off the NX300 is fast, simple, and straightforward: set to WiFi and press OK. Done. <em>(Note: The computer has to be on and probably on the same WiFi network. Don’t count on doing this while away from home.)</em></p>
<p>You aren’t limited to WiFi, of course. There are <em>many</em> ways to get photos off the NX300:</p>
<ul><li>Connect it to your PC or Mac with a <strong>USB cable</strong></li><li>Remove the SD card and plug it into a <strong>card reader</strong></li><li>Upload photos over <strong>WiFi to your smartphone</strong> (works great on my iPhone 4S)</li><li>Upload photos over <strong>WiFi to your PC or Mac</strong></li><li>Upload photos directly to Facebook and other services</li></ul>
<p><strong>Normally, I’m pretty reluctant to put camera software on my computer.</strong> I’ve been burned by bad camera software in the past (especially in the early 2000’s) which was clunky, slow, had its own bizarre UI conventions, didn’t give me control over the photo destination, gave photos stupid names, tried (and failed) to be Photoshop, and other crimes not worth mentioning.</p>
<p>None of that has been true about Samsung’s i-Launcher.</p>
<p>The i-Launcher interface is small and elegant, it opens fast, and it doesn’t appear to have brought any unwanted junk onto my computer. It really exists solely to do the thing I want it to do, which is to <strong>copy files over WiFi into a folder of my choice on my computer’s hard drive</strong>. If there’s cruft here, I can’t find it. (Way to go, Samsung!)</p>
<p>Here’s what i-Launcher looks like on my Windows 7 64-bit computer.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/multimedia_viewer_samsung_i_launcher_nx300_review.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="798" height="483" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/multimedia_viewer_samsung_i_launcher_nx300_review.jpg" alt="multimedia_viewer_samsung_i_launcher_nx300_review" class="wp-image-1678" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/multimedia_viewer_samsung_i_launcher_nx300_review.jpg 798w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/multimedia_viewer_samsung_i_launcher_nx300_review-300x181.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 798px) 100vw, 798px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>Photos go onto my hard drive, exactly where I want them to. They are organized by date and photo number.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_auto_backup_windows_7_64_bit_NX300_review.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="867" height="213" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_auto_backup_windows_7_64_bit_NX300_review.jpg" alt="samsung_auto_backup_windows_7_64_bit_NX300_review" class="wp-image-1680" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_auto_backup_windows_7_64_bit_NX300_review.jpg 867w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_auto_backup_windows_7_64_bit_NX300_review-300x73.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 867px) 100vw, 867px" /></a></figure></div>
<p><strong>Transferring Photos from NX300 to my Windows PC</strong></p>
<p>I’m on a Windows 7 64-bit machine and i-Launcher works perfectly for me. Initially, I installed the i-Launcher software from the CD but the camera and computer weren’t finding each other. I then plugged the camera directly into my computer via USB and lo and behold, the camera initiated installation of the WiFi sync software. Now, my PC and camera can see each other just fine.</p>
<p>Transferring photos over WiFi is lightning fast.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_uploading_over_wifi.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="750" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_uploading_over_wifi.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_uploading_over_wifi" class="wp-image-1693" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_uploading_over_wifi.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_uploading_over_wifi-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p><strong>Transferring Photos from NX300 to iPhone 4S</strong></p>
<p>The NX300 has a companion smartphone app, too. I downloaded the Samsung Smart Camera app onto my iPhone 4S. Connecting the camera to a smartphone is more steps than simply sending photos over WiFi, but it’s still pretty easy:</p>
<ol><li><strong>Set the camera to WiFi</strong></li><li>Touch the <strong>Mobile Link</strong> icon</li><li>Choose <strong>Select Photos from Smartphone</strong> or <strong>Select Photos from Camera</strong></li><li>On the smartphone, switch from my home’s WiFi network to the <strong>camera’s own WiFi network</strong></li><li><strong>Open the Samsung Smart Camera app</strong></li><li><strong>Select photos</strong> to copy to your smartphone</li><li><strong>Close the app</strong> to end the connection and return to your usual WiFi network automatically</li></ol>
<p>Here’s what it looks like on my iPhone as I select photos to sync from my NX300.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_iPhone_app_nx300.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="640" height="960" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_iPhone_app_nx300.jpg" alt="samsung_iPhone_app_nx300" class="wp-image-1708" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_iPhone_app_nx300.jpg 640w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_iPhone_app_nx300-200x300.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>This sync method uses “Near Field Communication” (NFC) technology, so the phone has to connect to the camera’s own little personal WiFi network to access the photos. Transferring is fast, and once it’s done the NX300’s photos are on my iPhone’s camera roll and ready to message, email, tweet, whatever!</p>
<p>I cannot overstate how awesome it is to just transfer photos with the flip of a switch and a couple screen taps. Living in the future is <em>everything</em> I hoped it would be.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Special Shooting Modes: “Smart” Mode</h2>
<p>The NX300 has a bunch of <strong>shooting modes</strong> (presets, really) that will look familiar to photographers coming from a point and shoot camera. These Smart options include:</p>
<ul><li>Beauty Face</li><li>Macro</li><li>Action Freeze</li><li>Rich Tones</li><li>Panorama</li><li>Waterfall</li><li>Silhouette</li><li>Sunset</li><li>Night</li><li>Fireworks</li><li>Light Trace</li><li>Creative Shot</li></ul>
<p>My favorite so far is <strong>Beauty Face</strong>, which actually takes <em>really</em> great pictures of me, even when the camera is in the hands of my very-non-photographer husband (he is loved anyway). It’s pretty rare I like a photo of myself enough to actually stick it on the Internet, so there you go – Beauty Face rocks.</p>
<p>(Sadly, Beauty Face does not detect dogs as having faces.)</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_photo_human_portrait.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_photo_human_portrait.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_photo_human_portrait" class="wp-image-1681" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_photo_human_portrait.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_photo_human_portrait-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p><strong>Macro Mode</strong> is another great shooting mode on the NX300. Just like macro mode on point and shoots, it’s good at focusing on a small object and letting the background become a beautiful bokeh.</p>
<p>This shot was taken in “Macro” mode and the subjects are two Monster High dolls sitting on a window sill.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_macro_mode_shooting_mode_sample_photo_two_dolls.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_macro_mode_shooting_mode_sample_photo_two_dolls.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_macro_mode_shooting_mode_sample_photo_two_dolls" class="wp-image-1692" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_macro_mode_shooting_mode_sample_photo_two_dolls.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_macro_mode_shooting_mode_sample_photo_two_dolls-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lens Variety</h2>
<p>It’s worth noting that the Samsung NX300 lacks the overwhelming (100+) lens variety offered by big names like Canon and Nikon. That didn’t worry me, though, mostly because that many lenses is complete overkill for me. I’m not going to buy buckets of lenses, I’m going to buy a couple that meet my needs and go from there.</p>
<p>Plus, the kit lens is really good. All the photos in this review were taken with the kit lens and I don’t feel a strong need to upgrade.</p>
<p>The NX300 has around 18 Samsung branded lenses to pick from. These are just some of them! <em>The following links are Amazon Affiliate links.</em></p>
<ul><li><strong>Professional standard zoom lens:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HV6KMQ8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00HV6KMQ8&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=DC2BLPMBGYNVS3GQ">Samsung NX 16-50mm f/2.0-2.8 S Series Zoom Lens</a> (Yes, it costs more than the camera)</li><li><strong>Extremely high quality videos and super zoom:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004W82I1K/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004W82I1K&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=NTVU4S5XU4ZUOQBC">Samsung Movie Pro 18-200mm lens for NX Series Cameras</a></li><li><strong>Standard 30mm prime lens for portraits and low light:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003FWLGIK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003FWLGIK&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=42MBTDFAL6XNFF7R">Samsung 30mm NX Pancake Lens for NX Series Cameras</a> (I’ve got one of these on order!)</li><li><strong>Action shots with in-lens image stabilization:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B4G67GK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00B4G67GK&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=MMJG5PS2RDXUN4PT">Samsung NX 50-200mm f/4.0-5.6 OIS Zoom Camera Lens</a></li><li><strong>Wide scenery and 180 degree shots:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FB2X7CA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00FB2X7CA&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=SQMACMKWB5PP5PXJ">Samsung NX 10mm Fish Eye Camera Lens</a></li><li><strong>2D/3D stills and video:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C3WLMBY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00C3WLMBY&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=JKENUXIV36B7272A">Samsung NX 45mm f/1.8 2D/3D Camera Lens</a></li><li><strong>Ultrawide prime lens for wide scenery:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007261C6Q/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007261C6Q&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=7FW7JRT3VZUQDNPC">Samsung NX 16mm f/2.4 Ultra Wide Prime Lens</a></li><li><strong>Versatile 20mm prime lens for anything:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0049E97XY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0049E97XY&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=JKTIDCONDGXFV5WY">Samsung 20mm f/2.8 NX Pancake Lens</a></li><li><strong>Telephoto with fast autofocus and precise manual focus:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007261AZE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007261AZE&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=R43XR2ZHFG2Y5PRA">Samsung NX 85mm f/1.4 Camera Lens</a></li><li><strong>Compact and lightweight portrait lens for low light and action:</strong> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00D83S2BK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00D83S2BK&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=SS43W5NKGUMPBGXE">Samsung NX 45mm f/1.8 Camera Lens</a></li></ul>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_lenses.png"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="851" height="567" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_lenses.png" alt="samsung_lenses" class="wp-image-1710" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_lenses.png 851w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_lenses-300x199.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 851px) 100vw, 851px" /></a><figcaption>The Samsung NX camera and lens family as shown on Samsung’s site.</figcaption></figure></div>
<p>All of the above lenses are highly rated and well-reviewed at all price points. The right lens(es) for you depends on what you’re trying to achieve with your photography.</p>
<p>I want to see how Samsung’s prime lenses perform, so I ordered one of the standard 30mm prime lenses and I’ll add a separate review of that lens once I have a chance to put it through its paces.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gripes?</h2>
<p>Eh, not really. If I have anything to complain about it’s that this camera doesn’t have the following it deserves, which made me second-guess my decision to purchase it before I went ahead and bought it anyway.</p>
<p><strong>Battery & Charge Cable</strong></p>
<p>I love that it’s a rechargeable battery but for power users, having to charge the battery inside the camera could slow things down. (Ie: you can’t buy a bunch of chargers and charge multiple batteries simultaneously.) Some reviews complained of short battery life but I shot hundreds of photos and transferred them over WiFi before dropping to 1 bar (out of 3). For my needs, the battery it ships with has been sufficient.</p>
<p>The battery’s charging cable could have been longer -it’s about a foot long and the battery only charges inside the camera. On the bright side, it’s just a micro USB cable and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JZHE3PM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00JZHE3PM&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=HCMQRZZRXVRT6MJN">10 foot micro usb cables are cheap</a> (and colorful!).</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_charge_cable.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="500" height="375" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_charge_cable.jpg" alt="samsung_nx_charge_cable" class="wp-image-1711" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_charge_cable.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_charge_cable-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Memory Card</h2>
<p>Oops, almost forgot – you’ll need to buy a memory card, as this camera doesn’t ship with one (and it has no internal memory of its own). For my NX300, I got a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FB465IG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00FB465IG&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=L7YBUYW53C4VNBKE">Transcend 64GB SD card</a>.</p>
<p>Card write speed is important (it affects how quickly you can take successive shots) and Transcend’s been a good brand for me. This is probably my 5th Transcend card in a decade and I’ve yet to have one fail. I really only get new ones to keep up with growing capacities and speed.</p>
<p>The 64 GB card promises <strong>over 12,000 shots on the 5.9MB</strong> <strong>setting</strong> (2976px x 1984px 3:2) and <strong>8,400 shots at 10.1MB setting</strong> (3888px x 2592px 3:2) and that’s really enough for me, but if you want more, check out the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EH5US4W/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00EH5US4W&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=IZE3HUWESSB4ZJ2B">gigantic 128GB Transcend SD card</a>.</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FB465IG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00FB465IG&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=L7YBUYW53C4VNBKE"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="814" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/transcend_64gb.jpg" alt="transcend_64gb" class="wp-image-1704" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/transcend_64gb.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/transcend_64gb-300x244.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a><figcaption>Holds 4,000-12,000+ shots depending on your settings.</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Remote Shutter</h2>
<p>AND ANOTHER THING! You can use the app as a remote shutter button! Here’s what the app looks like (screenshot taken from my iPhone 4S) along with the live feed from the camera (the NX300 was pointed at me).</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_remote_shutter.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="500" height="333" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_remote_shutter.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_remote_shutter" class="wp-image-1712" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_remote_shutter.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_remote_shutter-300x199.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>This isn’t the world’s most exciting shot. I can’t wait to use remote shutter somewhere practical, like on a vacation!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More Samsung NX300 Reviews</h2>
<ul><li><a href="http://www.samsung.com/us/nx300-series-dslr-interchangeable-lens-digital-cameras/#/better">Samsung NX300 manufacturer’s site and DSLR comparison</a></li><li><a href="http://www.samsung.com/us/nx-lenses/">Samsung’s NX Lenses page</a></li><li><a href="http://www.digitalcamerareview.com/default.asp?newsID=5351&review=Samsung+NX300+mirrorless">Samsung NX300 Review on DigitalCameraReview.com</a></li><li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Compact-Interchangeable-Digital-18-55mm/dp/B00COZRKCK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1416878331&sr=8-1&keywords=samsung+nx300&pebp=1416878338629#customerReviews">Samsung NX300 Amazon.com reviews</a></li></ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Shopping Links</h2>
<p>My NX300 came from Amazon.com, and prices and stock vary. Be sure to compare the prices on the various colors as sometimes one color is less expensive than the others. (For example, at the time of this writing the white one is the least expensive, but when I bought mine a week ago the black one was the better deal.)</p>
<ul><li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00COZRKCK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00COZRKCK&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=NX23XKNAHZDRUCUB">Samsung NX-300 Camera with 18-55mm Kit Lens in BLACK/WHITE/BROWN</a> (Amazon.com)</li><li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/bestsellers/electronics/3109924011/?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=UBVAIEHLS6MTMPFY">Amazon’s Best Selling Compact System Cameras</a> (for more popular mirrorless cameras)</li><li><a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=samsung+nx-300&N=0&InitialSearch=yes&sts=ma&Top+Nav-Search=">Samsung NX300 on B&H</a> (bhphotovideo.com)</li></ul>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">The Bottom Line</h1>
<p>I’m kicking myself for not getting this camera sooner! I could have been shooting great photos all summer! Better late than never, I guess, right? Happy birthday and Merry Christmas to ME! <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="🙂" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></p>
<p>Thanks for reading this far! If you have any questions, please ask in the comments and I’ll do my best to help!</p>
<p><strong>>>> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00COZRKCK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00COZRKCK&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=PAFF6ZYZWDACCKS5">See the Samsung NX300 on Amazon.com</a></strong></p>
<p>Okay, one more Gadget:</p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_outdoors_dog_sample_photo.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="667" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_outdoors_dog_sample_photo.jpg" alt="samsung_nx_300_outdoors_dog_sample_photo" class="wp-image-1713" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_outdoors_dog_sample_photo.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx_300_outdoors_dog_sample_photo-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a></figure></div>
<p><strong>Affiliate Disclosure</strong></p>
<p><em>Some links in this article are Amazon Affiliate links. Read DIYCraftPhotography’s <a href="/affiliate-disclosure/">full disclosure here</a>.</em></p>
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<item>
<title>Holiday 2014 Camera & Equipment Buyer’s Guide for Craft Photographers, eBay Sellers, and Bloggers</title>
<link>/holiday-2014-camera-equipment-buyers-guide-etsy-crafters/</link>
<comments>/holiday-2014-camera-equipment-buyers-guide-etsy-crafters/#comments</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[M. Johnson]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 05 Nov 2014 15:30:18 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Cameras & Equipment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[buyers guide]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[camera recommendations]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[camera reviews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[crafting business]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[equipment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[holiday]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[photography]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[recommendations]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[reviews]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">/?p=1633</guid>
<description><![CDATA[My favorite time of year is here! I love cozying up inside when it’s cold outside, the sparkling decorations on everything, the emphasis on family and friends… and food – oh boy, food! This is ALSO my favorite time of year because it’s the best time to upgrade your photography and crafting supplies! Between Black Friday, Cyber Monday, countdowns...</p><p><a class="more-link" href="/holiday-2014-camera-equipment-buyers-guide-etsy-crafters/">Read More</a></p>]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><div id="attachment_1654" style="width: 745px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/banner_holiday_shopping_guide_20141.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1654" class="wp-image-1654 size-full" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/banner_holiday_shopping_guide_20141.jpg" alt="" width="735" height="364" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/banner_holiday_shopping_guide_20141.jpg 735w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/banner_holiday_shopping_guide_20141-300x148.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 735px) 100vw, 735px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1654" class="wp-caption-text">This 2014 craft photography shopping guide is up to date with the best in cameras, lighting, and other cool stuff to make your crafts look great online, just in time for the gift-giving season (and winter birthdays, for all of us winter babies out there who get an extra helping of gifts this time of year)!</p></div></p>
<p>My favorite time of year is here! I love cozying up inside when it’s cold outside, the sparkling decorations on everything, the emphasis on family and friends… and food – oh boy, food! This is ALSO my favorite time of year because it’s <strong><em>the best</em> time to upgrade your photography and crafting supplies</strong>!</p>
<p>Between Black Friday, Cyber Monday, countdowns to Christmas and more, this is <em>the</em> season for bargain hunting for yourself and for the lovely crafters in your life! (And hey, there’s no harm in asking the <em>special someones</em> in your life for gifts that will help your craft business succeed in the new year :D)</p>
<p>This guide is all about<strong> the latest and greatest photography equipment for crafters. </strong>While this article (and this site, really) assumes you’re a crafter selling handmade stuff, the advice here holds true for anyone taking photos or making video for the web, be it for recipe blogging, selling on eBay, flipping stuff on Craigslist, showing off your pretty face on YouTube.</p>
<p>If your online biz requires taking great photos, this guide is for you!</p>
<p><em>Some links in this article are Amazon Affiliate links. Read DIYCraftPhotography’s <a href="/privacy-policy/">full disclosure here</a>.</em></p>
<h1>Best Cameras: Holiday 2014</h1>
<p>Hands down, the best investment you can make for your online handmade business is a good camera. Every camera on the market nowadays takes great photos – thankfully, we’re past the era of worrying about megapixels and talking more about lens quality, low-light performance, and extra features like WiFi connectivity.</p>
<p>If <strong>your budget is microscopic</strong> and you don’t have a smartphone camera and don’t anticipate one coming into your life soon, then you want the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BJ60VW6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BJ60VW6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=UNRQE6XDKRENLZSF">Samsung ST150F Smart WiFi Digital Camera</a>. The photo quality is great, especially from something this size, but what really separates this camera from its competition are the extra features. The WiFi capability lets you upload photos quickly over your home network. Ironically, this camera also has an awesome companion app for iPhone and Android lets you see what the camera sees on your phone’s screen and operate the camera from your phone. But if you have an iPhone or Android phone you can <em>probably</em> get away with using your phone’s camera instead. <a href="http://www.ephotozine.com/equipment/item/samsung-st150f-5007/images">ePhotoZine.com has a gallery of sample images from this camera, check it out!</a></p>
<p><div id="attachment_1636" style="width: 306px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BJ60VW6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BJ60VW6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=JHUFFI7QIPRH4RF7"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1636" class="wp-image-1636" title="Samsung ST150 point and shoot camera" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/samsung_ST150.jpg" alt="Samsung ST150 point and shoot camera review" width="296" height="296" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/samsung_ST150.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/samsung_ST150-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/samsung_ST150-300x300.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 296px) 100vw, 296px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1636" class="wp-caption-text">The Samsung ST150 owns the sub-$100 camera category with its quality photos, WiFi connectivity and remote control via app.</p></div></p>
<p><strong>For more control without the complexity of a DSLR and a price tag around $200 or so</strong>, you want the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HQ4W3OE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00HQ4W3OE&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=OEVMCK2DEF22CXZY">Nikon COOLPIX L830 16 MP Digital Camera</a>. This camera is like a point and shoot on steroids. The lens is powerful and high quality, and you don’t have to worry about mastering focusing or aperture settings to take great photos. You can just pick it up, point, and shoot! It’s too bad they called it “Coolpix” because the name makes it sound less sophisticated than it really is.</p>
<p>Unlike point and shoots, you can adjust the focus and get blurred backgrounds and sharp foregrounds, which is perfect for photographing small crafts and food. But it still has auto focus for those times when you don’t want to do fiddle with that stuff! This camera would also be useful outside of your crafting hobby. The Nikon L830 is an ideal camera for travel thanks to its compact size and super zoom. <a href="http://www.cnet.com/pictures/nikon-coolpix-l830-sample-pictures/">Check out some sample photos from the Nikon L830 camera over on CNet</a>.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1638" style="width: 415px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_coolpix.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1638" class="wp-image-1638" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_coolpix.jpg" alt="nikon_coolpix" width="405" height="308" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_coolpix.jpg 1500w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_coolpix-300x228.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_coolpix-1024x778.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 405px) 100vw, 405px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1638" class="wp-caption-text">Nikon Coolpix offers fantastic photo quality and an astonishing amount of zoom and control over focus. As a hybrid of point-and-shoot and DSLR, this camera is like the best of both worlds.</p></div></p>
<p><strong>If you’ve got a bit more budget and you want something that will walk, talk, and act like a DSLR without the bulk</strong>, you want the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00COZRKCK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00COZRKCK&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=P7JUWUYAL5G56Z6O">Samsung NX300 mirrorless camera</a>. This is one of the hottest cameras this season, and it’s the camera I bought myself this year. It is <em>superb</em>. (Read my full NX300 review here!) You get all the power of a DSLR but the body is slimmer and lighter than a similarly powered DSLR, plus awesome features like easy photo transfer over WiFi, auto “preset” modes in addition to manual shooting, and a great flip out touch screen on the back.</p>
<p>Those beautiful shots you see on Etsy and Pinterest where the background is softly blurred, where light sources become soft discs floating in shot, and where people and things look buttery smooth are the result of quality lenses, so use some of that leftover cash (this camera can be found for around $400) and grab a good prime lens.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1685" style="width: 371px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00COZRKCK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00COZRKCK&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=P7JUWUYAL5G56Z6O"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1685" class="wp-image-1685" src="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_front_side.jpg" alt="samsung_nx300_front_side" width="361" height="361" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_front_side.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_front_side-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2022/11/samsung_nx300_front_side-300x300.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 361px) 100vw, 361px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1685" class="wp-caption-text">The Samsung NX300 owns the mirrorless category right now thanks to its fantastic line of lenses, spot-on design, and great extra features like WiFi photo transfer and a flip out AMOLED touch screen on the back.</p></div></p>
<p><strong>If you really had your heart set on the best DSLR you can get for around or under $500, </strong>then you want the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DBPKAAG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00DBPKAAG&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=VGVJC2WBC2VKM2EL">Pentax K-50</a>. Don’t feel bad if you haven’t heard the name, Pentax tends to get overlooked in favor of the Big Two (Canon and Nikon). But the K-50 is awesome, and it’s got features you have to go up a price bracket for with Canon and Nikon, such as a weatherproof body design, full HD video capture, shooting up to ISO 51200, in-camera shake reduction, 6 frames per second, and Eye-Fi card compatibility for sharing photos over WiFi. Even better, the K-mount has a huge and diverse collection of lenses available.</p>
<p>These features just don’t exist in the similarly priced Canon and Nikon offerings, so unless you’re already invested in those lens families, give the Pentax K-50 a look!</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1719" style="width: 385px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DBPKAAG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00DBPKAAG&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=VGVJC2WBC2VKM2EL"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1719" class="wp-image-1719" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/pentax_2014_k-50.jpg" alt="pentax_2014_k-50" width="375" height="417" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/pentax_2014_k-50.jpg 1052w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/pentax_2014_k-50-269x300.jpg 269w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/pentax_2014_k-50-920x1024.jpg 920w" sizes="(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1719" class="wp-caption-text">The Pentax K-50 brings a top tier set of features into the mid-tier price range.</p></div></p>
<p><strong>But if you really want a “big name” camera (ie, Canon or Nikon), I think the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGFZU/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGFZU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=AJNW4NSSJBNWRHKR">Nikon D3200 DSLR </a>is the way to go.</strong> Even though Canon and Nikon are lagging behind on extras like flip out screens and WiFi transfer, they’re still rated highly on image quality. Chances are, your favorite DIY, food, and craft bloggers are using this camera or a more expensive one from its family, or something from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=canon%20rebel&linkCode=ur2&rh=n%3A172282%2Ck%3Acanon%20rebel&tag=diy07a-20&url=search-alias%3Delectronics&linkId=IIG7NPSKMELGN6NU">the similar Canon Rebel line</a>.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1635" style="width: 375px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_d3200_side.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1635" class="wp-image-1635" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_d3200_side.jpg" alt="nikon_d3200_side" width="365" height="338" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_d3200_side.jpg 450w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_d3200_side-300x277.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 365px) 100vw, 365px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1635" class="wp-caption-text">The Nikon D3200 is my top DSLR pick. Amazing photos, features, and a huge lens family to pick from make the Nikon line my favorite of the ongoing Canon vs. Nikon battle.</p></div></p>
<p>When it comes to Canon vs. Nikon, I think the Nikon D3200 feels better in my hands (heavier, less plasticky) and I think Nikon’s menus are more intuitive.</p>
<p>Remember, with cameras like this where you can swap the lens you want to spend your budget on lenses moreso than camera bodies, so don’t be put off by the idea of buying an “entry level” DSLR. Even if you’re big into photography, it will take you a few years to outgrow this camera. All you’re missing out vs. cameras four times its price are sensor sizes and improved performance for motion and dark. If you’re photographing crafts (and family vacations) you won’t miss those features. Save the extra cash for a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001S2PPT0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001S2PPT0&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=TXUOK7EP3DRVENMB">really choice lens instead</a>!</p>
<p>If <strong>photography, blogging, and crafting is what puts food on your table</strong>, then you probably already know what camera you’re lusting after. If not, the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0MZG2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009B0MZG2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=YKWTNR7OBKZB5BH2">Canon EOS 6D</a> and the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FOTF8M2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00FOTF8M2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=LJOOCWF7ZVZXVHJS">NikonD610</a> are top tier choices right now, depending on which lens family you’re already invested in.</p>
<p>These cameras offer superior noise control, multiple focus points, excellent detail shots, fantastic low light capabilities, and control over <em>everything</em>. They’re “full frame”, too, meaning capture more light and therefore get less electronic noise in the shadows of your photos. <a href="http://www.digitalcameraworld.com/2012/02/07/full-frame-dslr-do-you-really-need-one/">Read more about full frame DSLRs here on Digital Camera World</a>.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1641" style="width: 365px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0MZG2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009B0MZG2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=7MREGVOK3JQ5YZW4"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1641" class="wp-image-1641" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/canon_6d.jpg" alt="" width="355" height="355" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/canon_6d.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/canon_6d-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/canon_6d-300x300.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 355px) 100vw, 355px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1641" class="wp-caption-text">If you’ve already got some compatible lenses, go with the Canon EOS 6D <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0MZG2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009B0MZG2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=B624DJ3QLGZJEOCP">body-only </a>version. Alternatively, you can buy it bundled with a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0MZG2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009B0MZG2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=WN6CCPHOP5QLHRWA">24-105mm lens</a>.</p></div></p>
<p><div id="attachment_1639" style="width: 379px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FOTF8M2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00FOTF8M2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=XSHS3CDXWQOEBIHU"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1639" class="wp-image-1639" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_d610.jpg" alt="nikon_d610" width="369" height="326" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_d610.jpg 1500w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_d610-300x265.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nikon_d610-1024x905.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 369px) 100vw, 369px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1639" class="wp-caption-text">The Nikon D610 is Nikon’s competitor to the well-rated Canon EOS 6D. It is also available as <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FOTF8M2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00FOTF8M2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=XSHS3CDXWQOEBIHU">body-only</a> or body + lens bundle options, such as the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FOTF8M2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00FOTF8M2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=7CUJK6RGCLHKEKH7">24-85mm lens bundle</a>.</p></div></p>
<p>These cameras are<em> complete and utter overkill</em> for many Etsy sellers. Unless your shop or blog is how you make your living and/or you have a lot of enthusiasm for photography, you don’t need a full-frame camera. But of you’ve been itching to make photography a serious hobby and you feel like you’ve outgrown their current camera, these are the kinds of cameras (and don’t forget lenses) that you see in the hands of event photographers and artists selling photography as art or stock photos. If you’ve got a bit of cash to spend, you’ll probably never outgrow a camera from this category!</p>
<h1>Other Photography Accessories</h1>
<p>Beyond a great camera, you can also give your craft photography a big upgrade by investing in lighting and staging tools.</p>
<p>If your lighting setup is less than ideal, lighting kit will take the guesswork out of improving it. You’ll also never have to wait for a “good lighting” day again. For large crafts and crafts shown on human models (also: family portraits and YouTube videos), you want the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005FHZ2SI&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=EXLXMAFIX26OF7RM">LimoStudio-Photography Portrait Studio 600W Day Light Umbrella kit</a>. This is Amazon’s best selling lighting kit and I think it’s great because it’s got everything you need in one box AND it can all collapse down into that tiny bag for storage. You get two umbrellas for nice light scattering, light bulbs ready to go, and adjustable stands for easy positioning. I tried to rig up a similar setup using a mic stand once, and it wasn’t nearly as nice as this well-reviewed kit!</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1644" style="width: 344px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005FHZ2SI&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=EXLXMAFIX26OF7RM"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1644" class="wp-image-1644" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/limo-studio-photo-portrait-lighting-kit.jpg" alt="limo-studio-photo-portrait-lighting-kit" width="334" height="334" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/limo-studio-photo-portrait-lighting-kit.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/limo-studio-photo-portrait-lighting-kit-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/limo-studio-photo-portrait-lighting-kit-300x300.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 334px) 100vw, 334px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1644" class="wp-caption-text">LimoStudio-Photography photo portrait studio kit comes with everything you need to get good photography lighting indoors.</p></div></p>
<p>For smaller crafts, a table-top size shooting tent is all you need. There are a lot of these on the market, but I think the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000OZRFR2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000OZRFR2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=4WNNA7HMUCVYEKQF">Square Perfect 1050 Platinum Photo Studio</a> is the best value and most well-rounded of the bunch. It comes with two tents (a big one and a small one), 4 colored backdrops for both tents, lights stands with light bulbs, front panels with a slit for your camera to poke through, and a fully adjustable tripod to set your camera on. The little tent fills with soft bounced light, creating soft shadows and a smooth white or black backdrop for your product.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1647" style="width: 346px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000OZRFR2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000OZRFR2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=4WNNA7HMUCVYEKQF"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1647" class="wp-image-1647" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/square-perfect-lighting-tent.jpg" alt="square-perfect-lighting-tent" width="336" height="336" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/square-perfect-lighting-tent.jpg 1500w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/square-perfect-lighting-tent-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/square-perfect-lighting-tent-300x300.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/square-perfect-lighting-tent-1024x1024.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 336px) 100vw, 336px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1647" class="wp-caption-text">Square Perfect 1050 Sp500 Platinum Photo Studio is all you need in one convenient box: light tents, backdrops, lamps, stands, a tripod, and more.</p></div></p>
<p>For a reflective surfaces under your crafts, check out the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008ND5GS2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B008ND5GS2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=AJKQZDWRHJEDXPA4">LimoStudio Table Top Acrylic Display Table kit</a>. You get two tables, one black and one white, and the reflection effect is beautiful and professional. I tried to get this same effect with cloth and a mirror last summer and it didn’t go so well, so I’m thrilled to see more photography tables coming onto the market!</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1645" style="width: 280px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008ND5GS2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B008ND5GS2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=AJKQZDWRHJEDXPA4"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1645" class="wp-image-1645" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/limo-studio-acrylic-floor.jpg" alt="limo-studio-acrylic-floor" width="270" height="270" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/limo-studio-acrylic-floor.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/limo-studio-acrylic-floor-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/limo-studio-acrylic-floor-300x300.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 270px) 100vw, 270px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1645" class="wp-caption-text">Get a beautiful reflection under your jewelry or other small handmade crafts with an acrylic reflective table.</p></div></p>
<p>If you need a completely seamless and scuff-free white background, you want the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001546KP4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001546KP4&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=B2YNTU3I7Y4DG2SH">MyStudio MS20CYC Seamless Cyc background</a>. Pros build gigantic rooms on this same concept for photographing things like cars, and this is just a scaled down version perfect for smaller products and crafts. Use this seamless half-bowl thing to achieve pristine white backgrounds that fade to gray without a wrinkle or fold in sight. Unlike photo tents, you won’t have to worry about wrinkles or seams, and you’ll get a much larger shooting angle.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1655" style="width: 442px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001546KP4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001546KP4&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=B2YNTU3I7Y4DG2SH"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1655" class="wp-image-1655" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/infinity_studio.jpg" alt="infinity_studio" width="432" height="295" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/infinity_studio.jpg 1500w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/infinity_studio-300x205.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/infinity_studio-1024x701.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 432px) 100vw, 432px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1655" class="wp-caption-text">Seamless Cyc background is perfect for smooth, fade-to-gray backgrounds behind your products.</p></div></p>
<p> </p>
<h1>More Great Photography Accessories</h1>
<p>Beyond cameras and photography equipment, here are a few more great accessories to boost your craft biz photos.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KNDCCE6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00KNDCCE6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=T6GENNLVFLSD55UT">Adobe Photoshop</a> is my software of choice for<strong> Etsy photos, shop banners</strong>,<strong> logos</strong>, <strong>website and blog art</strong>, <strong>patterns</strong>, <strong>label design</strong>, <strong>business card design</strong>, and <strong>pack-ins</strong> (such as thank yous to customers and a “birth certificate” for every plushie I ship). Adobe has moved to a subscription model for almost everything, but considering that a standalone Photoshop license used to cost around $2000 you can buy a lot of Photoshop subscription months before you even come close to the cost of buying the software upfront. Adobe has a combo deal where you get access to Photoshop and Lightroom for one monthly fee (linked). I don’t use Lightroom personally, but my event photographer friends swear by it.</p>
<p>(PS: Some people adore <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N4OLCRO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00N4OLCRO&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=O2L6RKNMDZWJXXDL">Photoshop Elements,</a> which is quite affordable and not on a subscription model. Being used to Photoshop I couldn’t get the hang of it, but if you’re starting from scratch you probably won’t be as annoyed by the differences.)</p>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/photoshop_lightroom_creative_cloud.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1643" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/photoshop_lightroom_creative_cloud.jpg" alt="photoshop_lightroom_creative_cloud" width="217" height="256" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/photoshop_lightroom_creative_cloud.jpg 850w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/photoshop_lightroom_creative_cloud-255x300.jpg 255w" sizes="(max-width: 217px) 100vw, 217px" /></a></p>
<p>Finally, an easy-to-overlook aspect of your crafting business equipment is your computer monitor! I love a nice big widescreen dual monitor setup and it definitely increases my productivity as I edit photos, update websites, and write for this blog… usually simultaneously! <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="🙂" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> If you need a bigger and brighter monitor, you should look at the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0058UUR6E/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0058UUR6E&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=JPV3RFU3JROQHISC">Asus VS278Q-P Ultrafast LED</a> monitor. It’s huge (up to 27″ wide) and and its “IPS” technology offers wider viewing angles than most LEDs. If you’ve ever slouched in your chair and watched your monitor become visibly darker or bluer, you know the importance of having a wide viewing angle. Asus is a reputable brand (I’ve used their parts in my PCs for years and own a couple Asus monitors myself) and this monitor is also one of Amazon’s highest reviewed and most popular monitors!</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1650" style="width: 431px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0058UUR6E/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0058UUR6E&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=JPV3RFU3JROQHISC"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1650" class="wp-image-1650" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/asus_led_27_monitor.jpg" alt="asus_led_27_monitor" width="421" height="332" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/asus_led_27_monitor.jpg 413w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/11/asus_led_27_monitor-300x236.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 421px) 100vw, 421px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1650" class="wp-caption-text">Asus’s fabulous 27″ LED monitor gives you more space to edit photos and browse Etsy for lovely things!</p></div></p>
<p> </p>
<h1>Where to Find Deals on Photography Equipment</h1>
<p>Your local stores will undoubtedly have photography equipment promotions Black Friday and beyond. Personally, I hate the crowds and getting up at 4am isn’t my favorite so I tend to do all my shopping online. <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f600.png" alt="😀" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/b/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&node=761198&pf_rd_i=502394&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=1959318602&pf_rd_r=1HKM9B3JEWHKGY0AH6GD&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-2&pf_rd_t=101&tag=diy07a-20&linkId=HD2KHZCNCFWFBNCA">Amazon’s Camera, Photo, & Video deals</a> is my favorite place to browse and shop this time of year. Pretty much everything from cameras to lights to backdrops gets discounted at some point between now and December 25th. I like to check here every few days, since they keep rotating the stock and adding new stuff. Have fun shopping!</p>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" style="border: none;" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?t=diy07a-20&o=1&p=48&l=ur1&category=cegghol13&banner=1BZH0SMHRDHY9SP00CR2&f=ifr&linkID=5ZEWKORKXVAKNFNU" width="728" height="90" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></p>
<p><em>Some links in this article are Amazon Affiliate links. Read DIYCraftPhotography’s <a href="/affiliate-disclosure/">full disclosure here</a>.</em></p>
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<title>Simple White Background Product Photography Setup</title>
<link>/simple-white-background-product-photography-setup/</link>
<comments>/simple-white-background-product-photography-setup/#comments</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[M. Johnson]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sun, 06 Apr 2014 13:00:38 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[DIY Setups]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[diy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[equipment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[photo studio kit]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">/?p=1408</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Need some lovely new photos for your shop but limited by a tight budget? This DIY white photo background setup costs less than $5!   Supply List 1 large sheet of white poster board tape (painter’s, Scotch, masking – any kind will do) 2 big pieces of white foam core board “bounce card” made with...</p><p><a class="more-link" href="/simple-white-background-product-photography-setup/">Read More</a></p>]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/500_cheap_diy_photo_studio1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1468" alt="500_cheap_diy_photo_studio" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/500_cheap_diy_photo_studio1.jpg" width="735" height="364" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/500_cheap_diy_photo_studio1.jpg 735w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/500_cheap_diy_photo_studio1-300x148.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 735px) 100vw, 735px" /></a></p>
<p>Need some lovely new photos for your shop but limited by a tight budget? <strong>This DIY white photo background setup costs less than $5!</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_photo_studio_posterboard.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1428" alt="diy_photo_studio_posterboard" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_photo_studio_posterboard.jpg" width="600" height="450" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_photo_studio_posterboard.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_photo_studio_posterboard-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<h1>Supply List</h1>
<ul>
<li><strong>1 large sheet of white poster board</strong></li>
<li><strong>tape</strong> (painter’s, Scotch, masking – any kind will do)</li>
<li><strong>2 big pieces of white foam core board</strong></li>
<li><strong>“bounce card”</strong> made with white paper or tinfoil (heck, even a large notepad works)</li>
<li><strong>a chair, table, or TV tray tall enough to reach the window ledge</strong></li>
<li><strong>a well-lit window</strong></li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_photo_studio_posterboard_comparison.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1426" alt="diy_photo_studio_posterboard_comparison" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_photo_studio_posterboard_comparison.jpg" width="700" height="394" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_photo_studio_posterboard_comparison.jpg 1000w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_photo_studio_posterboard_comparison-300x168.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<h1>Setting Up</h1>
<p>Tape the white foam core boards together at a 90 degree angle. Gently bend the sheet of white poster board and tape it into place over the foam core boards.</p>
<p>Place your set up on a chair, table, or tray next to a well-lit window. The light coming in from this window should be even (no dappling from leaves or cast shadows). Shooting in the middle of a cloudy day is best, if you can swing it.</p>
<p>Arrange your object(s) on the poster board and <strong>hold the bounce card on the shadowed side</strong> of your object. Prop it up against something, hold it one hand and your camera in the other, or enlist a helper to hold it at just the right angle.</p>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_white_background_photo_setup_bounce_card.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1421" alt="diy_white_background_photo_setup_bounce_card" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_white_background_photo_setup_bounce_card.jpg" width="653" height="490" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_white_background_photo_setup_bounce_card.jpg 653w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/diy_white_background_photo_setup_bounce_card-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px" /></a></p>
<p><a href="/the-magic-of-bounce-lighting/">Read more about the magic of bounce lighting and how to make your own tinfoil bounce card here</a>.</p>
<h1>Shooting Photos</h1>
<p>Shoot a ton of photos – pick your favorites later. For every 4 photos I use in my Etsy store, I probably shot at least 10-20+ depending on the object. Try lots of angles and experiment.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1414" style="width: 477px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cheap_white_background_photography_setup_take_lots_of_photos.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1414" class=" wp-image-1414" alt="cheap_white_background_photography_setup_take_lots_of_photos" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cheap_white_background_photography_setup_take_lots_of_photos.jpg" width="467" height="387" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cheap_white_background_photography_setup_take_lots_of_photos.jpg 778w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cheap_white_background_photography_setup_take_lots_of_photos-300x248.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 467px) 100vw, 467px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1414" class="wp-caption-text">Take a ton of photos! Worry about choosing the right one later.</p></div></p>
<p>The photos that follow were taken right here, using my <strong>iPhone 4S camera</strong> in the <strong>middle of an overcast day in March</strong> in Washington State, North America – not exactly “The Sunshine State”!</p>
<p>I love the soft shadows and subtle white-to-grey gradation in the background. And Etsy does, too. Drop by Etsy.com on any random day and you’ll probably see a slew of featured items over soft, light grey backgrounds.</p>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/octavius_2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" alt="octavius_2" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/octavius_2.jpg" width="360" height="360" /></a></p>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/betta_size.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" alt="betta_size" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/betta_size.jpg" width="360" height="360" /></a></p>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/christmas_grubs_gifty.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" alt="christmas_grubs_gifty" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/christmas_grubs_gifty.jpg" width="360" height="360" /></a></p>
<p>Details are crisp, and the whole effect is classy and cool. I’m kind of amazed that my humble iPhone 4S could take such nice photos, and I still can’t get over the fact that this whole setup cost less than $5!</p>
<p>Want to shoot in the evenings? In the winter? Need more control over the lighting? <a href="/table-top-photo-studio-kit-reviews/">Check out a photo studio kit</a>!</p>
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<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>Best Indoor Lighting Equipment for Craft Photographers</title>
<link>/best-indoor-lighting-equipment-for-craft-photographers/</link>
<comments>/best-indoor-lighting-equipment-for-craft-photographers/#comments</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[M. Johnson]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2014 15:00:13 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Lighting]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lighting Equipment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[artificial lighting]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[food photography]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[lighting]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[photography]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">/?p=1412</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The most challenging aspect of product photography is getting the lighting right. Lighting affects everything: color, sharpness, shadows, and the overall quality of the image. The outdoors can be fickle and difficult to rely on – clouds, rain, and, oh yeah – that thing called winter. The best way to control lighting is to create...</p><p><a class="more-link" href="/best-indoor-lighting-equipment-for-craft-photographers/">Read More</a></p>]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/500_best_indoor_lighting_tools_for_crafters2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="735" height="364" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/500_best_indoor_lighting_tools_for_crafters2.jpg" alt="The Best Indoor Lighting Equipment for Craft Photography & Food Photography" class="wp-image-1454" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/500_best_indoor_lighting_tools_for_crafters2.jpg 735w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/500_best_indoor_lighting_tools_for_crafters2-300x148.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 735px) 100vw, 735px" /></a></figure></div>
<p>The most challenging aspect of product photography is <strong>getting the lighting right</strong>. </p>
<p>Lighting affects <em>everything</em>: color, sharpness, shadows, and the overall quality of the image. The outdoors can be fickle and difficult to rely on – clouds, rain, and, oh yeah – that thing called <em>winter</em>.</p>
<p>The best way to control lighting is to <strong>create it yourself</strong>. </p>
<p>With a good indoor lighting setup, you can photograph whenever you need to – no more waiting for weekends or “a good lighting day” – and deliver consistent results every time. In this special equipment roundup, we’re going to recommend the very best indoor lighting equipment for craft photographers and food bloggers!</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Best lighting for small objects</h3>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009K50RO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0009K50RO&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Lowel EGO Digital Imaging, Tabletop Fluorescent Light Unit</a></p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/lowel_ego_light_manufacturer_photo.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="600" height="480" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/lowel_ego_light_manufacturer_photo.jpg" alt="Lowel EGO indoor lighting lamp for food bloggers and craft photographers. From our article: Best Indoor Lighting Tools for Craft Photographers" class="wp-image-1448" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/lowel_ego_light_manufacturer_photo.jpg 600w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/lowel_ego_light_manufacturer_photo-300x240.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></a></figure></div>
<p><strong>Perfect for: food photography, handmade jewelry, small handmade crafts like toys and dolls</strong></p>
<p>We love this little lamp by EGO. It’s easy to set up (just plug it in) and compact enough to sit on a tray or small table along with your product or food. It’s lightweight (less than 3 lbs) and small enough to just tuck away into a closet or drawer. Each Lowel EGO light comes with two 27-Watt custom “daylight” fluorescent lamps behind a white translucent diffusing shield for accurate colors and soft shadows. The lightbulbs also come with a manufacturer’s estimated lifespan of 5,000 to 10,000 hours. That’s a lot of food photos!</p>
<p>At just over $100 it’s not cheap, but it’s the closest thing to natural daylight we’ve seen. Food bloggers <a href="http://pinchofyum.com/" rel="nofollow">Pinch of Yum</a> and <a href="http://www.steamykitchen.com/266-lowel-ego-lights-for-food-photography.html">Steamy Kitchen</a> both use and recommend this lamp for fantastic food photos on dark winter nights.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Best indoor lighting kit</h3>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003WLY24O/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003WLY24O&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">CowboyStudio Photography Lighting Kit with Umbrellas </a></p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cowboy_studio_photography_umbrella_kit.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="425" height="425" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cowboy_studio_photography_umbrella_kit.jpg" alt="CowboyStudio photography umbrella kit for indoor photography, craft photography, and portraits. From our article: Best Indoor Lighting Tools for Craft Photographers" class="wp-image-1431" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cowboy_studio_photography_umbrella_kit.jpg 425w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cowboy_studio_photography_umbrella_kit-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cowboy_studio_photography_umbrella_kit-300x300.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 425px) 100vw, 425px" /></a></figure></div>
<p><strong>Perfect for: photographing babies, portraits, clothing on models or mannequins, jewelry on live models, medium and larger sized crafts on tables and chairs</strong></p>
<p><strong>Transform a corner of your room into a well-lit photo studio</strong> with this kit. Sets up in minutes and includes high quality daylight CFL bulbs for consistent color. Aluminum stands are sturdy. This $70 kit looks and acts like a professional $1,000 kit.</p>
<p>This kit is pretty much everything you need in one convenient package, especially if your crafts are too big for a little light tent or worn by human models.</p>
<p>Set includes:</p>
<ul><li><strong>3 daylight CFL bulbs</strong></li><li><strong>2 white 33″ umbrellas and 7 ft stands</strong></li><li><strong>3 45 Watt 5500k Daylight bulbs</strong></li><li><strong>1 mini light stand </strong></li><li><strong>3 swivel sockets</strong> (point your lights in any direction)</li><li><strong>Padded carrying case</strong></li></ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Best reflector kit</h3>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002ZIMEMW/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002ZIMEMW&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Neewer 110CM 43″ 5-in-1 Collapsible Multi-Disc Light Reflector</a></p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/neewer_reflector.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="500" height="500" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/neewer_reflector.jpg" alt="Neewer reflector set for great bounce lighting. Works with indoor and outdoor photography. From our article: Best Indoor Lighting Tools for Craft Photographers" class="wp-image-1433" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/neewer_reflector.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/neewer_reflector-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/neewer_reflector-300x300.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></figure></div>
<p><strong>Perfect for: softening shadows on humans and small and medium size objects</strong></p>
<p>Light reflectors are awesome. Hold the disc up near your subject to bounce light back into shadowed areas. (See the magic of <a href="/the-magic-of-bounce-lighting/">bounce lighting in action</a>.)</p>
<p>This “all in one” disc is about the <strong>size of a medium pizza</strong>. It contains 5 colors: <strong>white, silver, gold, black,</strong> and<strong> translucent</strong>. Just unzip to get to the color you want to use, and zip it back up for storage.</p>
<ul><li><strong>Silver</strong> is neutral but more reflective than white, so it’s best used in lower light situations (such as shooting indoors).</li><li><strong>White</strong>, like silver, is also neutral but less reflective. Works best in bright lighting to soften harsh shadows. Since it’s weaker than silver, it’ll have to be held closer to your subject.</li><li><strong>Gold</strong> reflectors are very warm, use a gold disc to give human subjects a healthy glow or when shooting outdoors to counteract blue tinted daylight shadows.</li><li><strong>Black</strong> reflectors are the opposite of the previous three: black makes shadows darker by reducing the ambient bounce lighting hitting your subject.</li><li><strong>Transluscent</strong> isn’t a reflector; it’s actually a <em>diffuser</em>. Place it between your light source and your subject to soften harsh lighting.</li></ul>
<p>Some reflector kits cost well over $100. That’s crazy! This high quality kit can be found for less than $20.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Best tabletop photo studio and lighting kit</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FMKJ1I/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005FMKJ1I&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">LimoStudio Photography Photo Studio Lighting Kit Set</a></p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/limo_studio_photography_photo_studio.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="500" height="500" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/limo_studio_photography_photo_studio.jpg" alt="LimoStudio photography studio kit. 16 x 16 lighting tent, mini tripod, lamps, and backgrounds. From our article: Best Indoor Lighting Tools for Craft Photographers." class="wp-image-1439" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/limo_studio_photography_photo_studio.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/limo_studio_photography_photo_studio-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/04/limo_studio_photography_photo_studio-300x300.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></figure></div>
<p><strong>Perfect for: small crafts like jewelry and amigurumi, white background product photography</strong></p>
<p>A photo studio is great for when you want to achieve a smooth, white background behind your product. Aim the spotlights at the side of the box to light it up inside and take bright, beautiful photos. There’s a tiny tripod included but if you’re shooting with your phone you may not find it very useful. We didn’t get much use out of the blue and red backgrounds, but the white one is a workhorse that any crafter selling online should find useful. </p>
<p>See our <a href="/table-top-photo-studio-kit-reviews/http:/table-top-photo-studio-kit-reviews/">Photo Studio Kit Comparison Guide for a whole slew of options</a>.</p>
<p>This tabletop photo kit includes:</p>
<ul><li><strong>Light bulbs</strong> are studio quality 5000K, 120V 50W GU10 lamps for consistent color temperature (not too orange or blue)</li><li><strong>Eliminate unexpected shadows </strong>by controlling the light</li><li><strong>16″ x 16″ box </strong>fits small and medium size objects</li><li><strong>Mini tripod with bubble level:</strong> so all your photos are shot from exactly the same height</li><li><strong>Carrying case!</strong> Pack it all away when you’re done.</li></ul>
<p>Go forth and photograph your handmade crafts! Do you have any specialized lighting equipment? Show it off – share a link to your photos or shop in the comments!</p>
<div class="amazin-product-box" id="amazin-product-box-id-1910">
<p class="amazin-product-box-recommend-text">DIYCraftPhotography recommends</p>
<h3 class="amazin-product-box-product-name">CowboyStudio Photography & Video Portrait Umbrella Continuous Triple Lighting Kit</h3>
<div class="amazin-product-box-image-row">
<div class="amazin-product-box-column amazin-product-box-left">
<img decoding="async" src="/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/cowboy-studio-official.jpg"/>
</div>
<div class="amazin-product-box-column amazin-product-box-right">
<p class="amazin-product-box-tagline">Sturdy, versatile, and inexpensive</p>
<p class="amazin-product-box-description" >No more waiting for the sun to come out! Light up your crafts with this inexpensive lighting kit that includes everything you need to get started shooting indoors.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="amazin-product-box-button-wrap">
<a href="https://amzn.to/2X2p4gf" class="amazin-product-box-button" target="_blank" >See the CowboyStudio Lighting Kit on Amazon.com</a>
</div>
</div>
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<title>How to Get Great Photos with your Point and Shoot Camera</title>
<link>/get-great-photos-with-your-point-and-shoot-camera/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[M. Johnson]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Mar 2014 07:00:22 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Cameras & Equipment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Point and Shoot Cameras]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">/?p=301</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The humble “point and shoot” is where most of us get our start in photography these days. But as you dig into photography and notice your friends are shooting with fancy DSLRs, it’s easy to feel like your “inferior” equipment is holding back your photography. While that might be true to some extent, there’s still a...</p><p><a class="more-link" href="/get-great-photos-with-your-point-and-shoot-camera/">Read More</a></p>]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/great_photos_with_point_and_shoot_camera1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-1258 aligncenter" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/great_photos_with_point_and_shoot_camera1.jpg" alt="Get great photos with your point and shoot camera! See some of my best photos along with the camera and settings used." width="441" height="364" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/great_photos_with_point_and_shoot_camera1.jpg 441w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/03/great_photos_with_point_and_shoot_camera1-300x247.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 441px) 100vw, 441px" /></a></p>
<p>The humble “point and shoot” is where most of us get our start in photography these days. But as you dig into photography and notice your friends are shooting with fancy DSLRs, it’s easy to feel like your “inferior” equipment is holding back your photography. While that might be true to <em>some</em> extent, there’s still a lot you can do with even the simplest of cameras!</p>
<blockquote><p>Only a poor artisan blames the tools</p></blockquote>
<p>So, in defense of simple cameras everywhere, I present you with some of the very best photos I’ve taken using my <strong>iPhone 4S</strong> or my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3ZXGU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3ZXGU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS</a> along with some how-to guides on how to replicate my results and get the most out of your point and shoot camera.</p>
<p><em>Links to Amazon.com are affiliate links.</em></p>
<h1>Canon PowerShot Photos</h1>
<h2><strong>Sugar Swirl Cookies</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Get crisp edges and blurred backgrounds with “Macro” mode.</strong></p>
<p>This sugar cookie scene was set up next to a window for natural mid-day daylight (circa mid-September). A piece of white foam core board makes the soft grey background, and the cookies are sitting on top of a simple white plate (on top of a cloth napkin and placemat).</p>
<p>I set my Canon PowerShot to “Macro” to give the camera a smaller depth of field. This means that things at a certain distance will be in focus, and everything else will softly fall out of focus. You can see that effect at work here – the sugar crystals are sharp, but the cookies in the background are a bit fuzzier. The background blur isn’t as pronounced as what you might achieve with a DSLR, but I love the crisp edge on the close cookie, the sharp sugar crystals, and the true to life colors. The background blur could be punched up in Photoshop, too, if desired.</p>
<p>The camera was held just few inches from the cookies and I pressed the shutter button halfway to give the camera a moment to focus, and then the rest of the way down to actually take the shot.</p>
<p>Not bad for an inexpensive point and shoot!</p>
<div style="width: 674px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/canon_powershot_300HS_cookies.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/canon_powershot_300HS_cookies.jpg" alt="canon_powershot_300HS_cookies" width="664" height="464"></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Point and shoot Macro (“flower”) mode made those sugar crystals sharp and the background soft.</p></div>
<h2><strong>Sushi Betta</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Daylight is the Star!</strong></p>
<p>These photos are several years old, back from my early days of photographing crafts for Etsy. My first attempts at photographing Sushi the plush betta, with her delicate colors and soft flannel fabric, looked like this:</p>
<div id="attachment_1243" style="width: 522px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sushi_flash_on.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1243" class="size-full wp-image-1243" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sushi_flash_on.jpg" alt="sushi_flash_on" width="512" height="384" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sushi_flash_on.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sushi_flash_on-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1243" class="wp-caption-text">Using the flash was pretty bad. Just… no.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1244" style="width: 522px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sushi_flash_off.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1244" class="size-full wp-image-1244" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sushi_flash_off.jpg" alt="sushi_flash_off" width="512" height="384" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sushi_flash_off.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sushi_flash_off-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1244" class="wp-caption-text">But turning the flash off wasn’t much better, now she’s too dark.</p></div>
<p>At this point it’s easy to just blame the camera and try to salvage the second shot in Photoshop. But then I had an idea: I threw my living room verticals open and moved my “photo shoot” to the floor near the window.</p>
<div style="width: 760px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/canon_powershot_300HS_sushi.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/canon_powershot_300HS_sushi.jpg" alt="canon_powershot_300HS_sushi" width="750" height="526"></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Now that’s much better!</p></div>
<p>Holy wow! I can’t believe all three shots came from the same camera. There’s an important lesson here:<strong> lighting matters!</strong> (And composition, too. Turning Sushi to face the camera helped a lot.)</p>
<h2><strong>Tower of Terror at Dusk</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Long exposure time and a stable camera capture tiny, faraway details.</strong></p>
<p>We usually just talk about product photography here at DIYCraftPhotography, but you probably want to do more than that with your camera! Here is a nice contrast to the previous two photos: some architectural shots from Disney World!</p>
<p>I went to Disney World last year (YAY!) and brought along my Canon PowerShot plus a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005HY4U4Q/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005HY4U4Q&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">travel-friendly bendable Joby tripod</a> with the intention of taking long-exposure shots of various Disney attractions. I took <em>nearly a thousand photographs</em> at Disney World and walked away with a few dozen great ones. (Lesson: always take<strong> tons</strong> of photos!!)</p>
<p>This shot of the Tower of Terror at sunset required two things: <strong>a completely stable camera</strong> and a <strong>long exposure time</strong>. A long exposure means the camera’s shutter is open for a longer period of time (a couple seconds, in this case). Any motion would blur the end result, hence the small tripod (small because I can’t carry a 4 foot tripod onto rides and Disney doesn’t like them in the park anyway). The longer exposure time lets the camera soak up more details in the low light.</p>
<div id="attachment_1223" style="width: 730px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tower_of_terror_point_and_shoot.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1223" class="wp-image-1223 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tower_of_terror_point_and_shoot.jpg" alt="tower_of_terror_point_and_shoot" width="720" height="540" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tower_of_terror_point_and_shoot.jpg 2000w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tower_of_terror_point_and_shoot-300x225.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tower_of_terror_point_and_shoot-1024x768.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1223" class="wp-caption-text">This photo came out of <strong>MY</strong> camera?!</p></div>
<p>Getting this shot was not as simple as plopping my camera down and waiting for the picture to fire. It took <strong>a lot</strong> of trial and error in the parks, and I shot the same subjects over and over and over. Below are some of the not-so-great shots I took on the way to the great one you see above.</p>
<div id="attachment_1245" style="width: 522px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_overexposed.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1245" class="size-full wp-image-1245" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_overexposed.jpg" alt="tot_overexposed" width="512" height="341" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_overexposed.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_overexposed-300x199.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1245" class="wp-caption-text">Overexposed! I tried a too-long shutter time. 4 seconds was obviously overkill.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1246" style="width: 522px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_blurry.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1246" class="size-full wp-image-1246" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_blurry.jpg" alt="tot_blurry" width="512" height="384" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_blurry.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_blurry-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1246" class="wp-caption-text">I tried to stand very, very still for a 2-second exposure shot. Nope, can’t do this without a tripod.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1247" style="width: 394px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_grainy_iPhone4S.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1247" class="size-full wp-image-1247" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_grainy_iPhone4S.jpg" alt="tot_grainy_iPhone4S" width="384" height="512" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_grainy_iPhone4S.jpg 384w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_grainy_iPhone4S-225x300.jpg 225w" sizes="(max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1247" class="wp-caption-text">I tried taking a dusk photo with my iPhone 4S. Low light scenes are <strong>way</strong> outside the iPhone’s capabilities, so I’m glad I brought the PowerShot!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1248" style="width: 730px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_nighttime.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1248" class=" wp-image-1248" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_nighttime.jpg" alt="tot_nighttime" width="720" height="479" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_nighttime.jpg 2000w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_nighttime-300x199.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/tot_nighttime-1024x681.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1248" class="wp-caption-text">Almost at full night-time here, and the $200 Canon PowerShot is still taking pretty sharp photos with a long exposure and a small tripod.</p></div>
<p style="text-align: left;">I pushed this humble <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3ZXGU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3ZXGU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Canon PowerShot</a> to its limit at Disney World! I love its long exposure time, adjustable ISO, optical zoom capabilities (I was <strong>not</strong> standing that close to the Tower), low noise at high ISO settings, and compact body design. If you’re in the market for a $200-ish point and shoot with a lot of versatility, this is the one I personally use and I love it:</p>
<div id="attachment_1250" style="width: 290px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3ZXGU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3ZXGU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1250" class=" wp-image-1250" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/canon_powershot_300_HS.jpg" alt="canon_powershot_300_HS" width="280" height="218" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/canon_powershot_300_HS.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/canon_powershot_300_HS-300x234.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1250" class="wp-caption-text">Click to see the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3ZXGU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3ZXGU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS</a> on Amazon.com</p></div>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>See also:</strong> <a href="/best-cameras-for-craft-and-food-photography/">DIYCraftPhoto’s Camera Recommendations for Every Budget</a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Curious about the tripod I was using? I brought along a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005HY4U4Q/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005HY4U4Q&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Joby GorillaPod</a><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> – </span>this bad boy <strong>went on every ride</strong> and <strong>survived countless setups</strong>, <strong>take downs</strong>, and<strong> experimentation</strong>. I also just played with it a lot, bending it and straightening it while I waited in lines. I wrapped it around lamp posts, railings, sat it on garbage cans, and rocks. It rules. Disney let it into the parks without a problem, too.</p>
<div id="attachment_1249" style="width: 260px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/joby_tripod.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1249" class="size-full wp-image-1249" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/joby_tripod.jpg" alt="joby_tripod" width="250" height="391" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/joby_tripod.jpg 250w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/joby_tripod-191x300.jpg 191w" sizes="(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1249" class="wp-caption-text">Don’t worry, only 1 in 10,000 gains sentience and starts walking around on its own.</p></div>
<h1><strong>iPhone 4S Photos</strong></h1>
<p>Okay, enough about the point and shoot – we know it’s awesome. What about a smartphone camera? Can you do anything good with that? Yes – but there’s a catch. You have to be shooting in daylight. But they say the best camera is the one you have with you, and my iPhone 4S is always with me!</p>
<h2><strong>Sailboat on Puget Sound</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Freeze action with bright lighting</strong></p>
<p>I shot this with an iPhone 4S <em>through a window</em> on a <em>moving</em> ferry. Daylight did the heavy lifting here. There’s no way that bird would have come out so crisp and perfectly frozen in the air in dim lighting – the camera would have held the shutter open longer to compensate for the low light, and the bird would have become a blur.</p>
<div id="attachment_1224" style="width: 450px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sailboat.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1224" class="wp-image-1224 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sailboat.jpg" alt="iphone_sailboat" width="440" height="587" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sailboat.jpg 1224w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sailboat-225x300.jpg 225w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sailboat-768x1024.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 440px) 100vw, 440px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1224" class="wp-caption-text">Camera: iPhone 4S. Shot from a moving ferry (through a window, no less).</p></div>
<p>Here’s another fun little secret about this photo: I took 4 photos as this boat passed by, and I’m just showing you my favorite one. Always shoot more than you think you need – you can always pick the best photo later and delete the rest.</p>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sailboat_photos.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1242" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sailboat_photos.jpg" alt="sailboat_photos" width="1033" height="276" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sailboat_photos.jpg 1033w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sailboat_photos-300x80.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/sailboat_photos-1024x273.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 1033px) 100vw, 1033px" /></a></p>
<h2><strong>September Sunflowers</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Yet more proof that lighting is everything.</strong></p>
<p>I wish the iPhone was better at bokeh (blurring the background), but this shot came out pretty incredible nonetheless.</p>
<div id="attachment_1225" style="width: 450px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sunflowers.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1225" class="wp-image-1225 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sunflowers.jpg" alt="iphone_sunflowers" width="440" height="587" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sunflowers.jpg 1224w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sunflowers-225x300.jpg 225w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sunflowers-768x1024.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 440px) 100vw, 440px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1225" class="wp-caption-text">Sunflowers photographed with an iPhone 4S on a clear October morning.</p></div>
<h2><strong>Snow-capped Mountains</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Clouds and rocks look good in daylight.</strong></p>
<p>Okay, how about something bigger and further away? My iPhone 4S took a pretty nice photo of Mt. Rainier through a jet window even though it was quite far. The mid-morning lighting undoubtedly helped this shot:</p>
<div style="width: 730px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/mountain_iphone.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/mountain_iphone.jpg" alt="mountain_iphone" width="720" height="540"></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Aerial photo of Mt. Rainier taken by an iPhone 4S</p></div>
<h1>So what <em>can’t</em> you do with a “low end” camera?</h1>
<p>The two biggest limitations I’ve found with my point and shoot camera and my iPhone camera are:</p>
<ol>
<li>It’s hard (if not impossible) to achieve <strong>strong bokeh</strong> (blurry background)</li>
<li>The iPhone 4S struggles with <strong>details and motion in low-light conditions</strong></li>
</ol>
<p>I went to Disneyland a while back but I didn’t bring my PowerShot, just my iPhone. This is where I discovered just how bad the iPhone is at capturing low lit, far-away subjects.</p>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sunset_grain.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1241" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sunset_grain.jpg" alt="iphone_sunset_grain" width="512" height="384" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sunset_grain.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iphone_sunset_grain-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></a></p>
<p>Another example of low light struggles: my sister’s fast-moving Chihuahua is just a blur in this iPhone 4S photo taken in typical kitchen lighting.</p>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/low_light_fast_moving.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1252" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/low_light_fast_moving.jpg" alt="low_light_fast_moving" width="512" height="384" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/low_light_fast_moving.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/03/low_light_fast_moving-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></a></p>
<h1>One last tip: how to get great photos with your point and shoot camera</h1>
<p><strong>Practice! </strong>All those extra modes and settings do cool things, you just have to learn how to pair the right settings with the right situation. If you’re shooting in dim lighting, stabilize your camera with a tripod. If you’re trying to capture something that’s moving around, turn on some more lights or go outdoors. Working with what you’ve got can be very satisfying, and point and a shoot camera or a smartphone camera can take pretty incredible photos once you get the hang of it!</p>
<p>Have you taken some great photos with a point and shoot or smartphone camera? <strong>Tell us about it in the comments!</strong> Feel free to link to your Etsy shop, blog, etc. We want to see some great photos from humble cameras!</p>
<p><em>Some links in this article are Amazon Affiliate links. Read DIYCraftPhotography’s <a href="/affiliate-disclosure/">full disclosure here</a>.</em></p>
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</item>
<item>
<title>Best Cameras for Craft and Food Photography (and every budget!)</title>
<link>/best-cameras-for-craft-and-food-photography/</link>
<comments>/best-cameras-for-craft-and-food-photography/#comments</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[M. Johnson]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sat, 08 Mar 2014 08:00:02 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Cameras & Equipment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[DSLR Cameras]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[best cameras for product photography]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[etsy photography]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[good camera for ebay sellers]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[good camera for etsy]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">/?p=1165</guid>
<description><![CDATA[I recently spent well over 20 hours researching my next DSLR purchase (I’ll reveal what it is in a future post!). Along the way, I realized there’s good cameras at every single price point – so I put together this camera-buying guide for other crafters and food photographers thinking of a camera upgrade. This camera...</p><p><a class="more-link" href="/best-cameras-for-craft-and-food-photography/">Read More</a></p>]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/best_cameras_food_and_craft_photographers_and_every_budget.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1230" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/best_cameras_food_and_craft_photographers_and_every_budget.jpg" alt="The Best Cameras for Craft & Food Photographers. In this monster length post, DIYCraftPhotography picks a best camera for every budget." width="441" height="364" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/best_cameras_food_and_craft_photographers_and_every_budget.jpg 441w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/best_cameras_food_and_craft_photographers_and_every_budget-300x247.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 441px) 100vw, 441px" /></a></p>
<p>I recently spent well over 20 hours researching my next DSLR purchase (I’ll reveal what it is in a future post!). Along the way, I realized there’s good cameras at every single price point – so I put together this camera-buying guide for other crafters and food photographers thinking of a camera upgrade.</p>
<p>This camera buying guide, just like this site, was written specifically<strong> for craft and food photographers!</strong> This is your guide to the best cameras for craft and food photography. We’re assuming your subjects are small-ish (anywhere from jewelry to throw pillow sized) and that you want just little background showing, preferably as a soft blur.</p>
<p><em>Links to Amazon.com are affiliate links.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>This guide answers the following questions:</strong></em></p>
<ul>
<li>What’s the right camera for my budget?</li>
<li>What features do I <em>really</em> need?</li>
<li>What’s the best camera lens for food and jewelry, or for people wearing things I made? How about smaller things like plushies and throw pillows?</li>
<li>What features do I get if I spend a bit more? What do I miss out on if I spend a little less?</li>
<li>How do I choose a camera brand/manufacturer?</li>
</ul>
<p>We won’t bog you down with tiny technical differences or try to cover every type of photography under the sun.</p>
<p>If you’re a crafter who is great at making things, but isn’t sure where to begin when it comes to choosing the right camera, you’re in the right place! This guide is for<em> you. </em></p>
<h1>Best Camera under $100</h1>
<p><strong>The Straight Shooter</strong></p>
<p>If your budget is tiny, we recommend the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AWYN0BU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AWYN0BU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon PowerShot ELPH 130 IS.</a> This is a newer version of the same camera I used for years for family photos, Etsy listing photos, and many of the photos on this very site. This camera is simple to use and Canon is basically the rockstar of the inexpensive camera category.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1174" style="width: 330px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_powershot_elph.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1174" class="wp-image-1174 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_powershot_elph.jpg" alt="DIYCraftPhotography recommends the Canon PowerShot ELPH 130s for photographers on a tight budget." width="320" height="272" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_powershot_elph.jpg 400w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_powershot_elph-300x255.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1174" class="wp-caption-text">Humble powerhouse: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AWYN0BU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AWYN0BU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon PowerShot ELPH 130 IS</a></p></div></p>
<p><strong><strong>Point and Shoot </strong>Advantages</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Almost no learning curve</li>
<li>Budget friendly</li>
<li>Portable & pocket-sized</li>
<li>16.0 MP Digital Camera</li>
<li>8x Optical Zoom</li>
<li>28mm Wide-Angle Lens</li>
<li>720p HD Video Recording</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Point and Shoot Disadvantages</strong></p>
<p>Alas, there is one big disadvantage: you’ll have a hard time getting a lovely out-of-focus near background effect with a point and shoot camera. This kind of shot is difficult, if not outright impossible, to achieve.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1190" style="width: 342px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/shallow_depth_of_fieldstrawberries.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1190" class="size-full wp-image-1190 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/shallow_depth_of_fieldstrawberries.jpg" alt="Shallow depth of field. Strawberries by elcerritoguauchos.net" width="332" height="500" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/shallow_depth_of_fieldstrawberries.jpg 332w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/shallow_depth_of_fieldstrawberries-199x300.jpg 199w" sizes="(max-width: 332px) 100vw, 332px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1190" class="wp-caption-text">Strawberries from a <a href="http://www.elcerritogauchos.net/shah/digital_photography/101/dof_sorting/index.html">depth of field photography lesson on elcerritogauchos.net</a></p></div></p>
<p>Point and shoot camera lenses are designed to put <em>everything</em> into focus. Macro mode and Portrait mode allow for some blur in the (very distant) background, but your blurs will be subtle.</p>
<p>Here’s a yummy photo I took using macro mode on my own point and shoot – the sugar crystals are sharp, but the cookie stack in the background is softer.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1232" style="width: 461px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/macro_mode_cookies.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1232" class=" wp-image-1232 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/macro_mode_cookies.jpg" alt="Homemade cookies shot using macro mode on a point and shoot camera." width="451" height="317" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/macro_mode_cookies.jpg 1252w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/macro_mode_cookies-300x211.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/macro_mode_cookies-1024x721.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 451px) 100vw, 451px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1232" class="wp-caption-text">(Click to see me BIG!)</p></div></p>
<p><strong>Think twice before buying a point and shoot if…</strong></p>
<p>You already have a pretty good smartphone camera, such as a recent iPhone or Android phone. The point and shoot camera category has been gutted by smartphones in recent years, and the gap between the two gets smaller every year. To get a camera that <em>really</em> outshines your smartphone, save up a couple hundred more and look into this next category of cameras:</p>
<h1>Best Camera for $200-$400</h1>
<p><strong>Advanced Point and Shoot<br />
</strong></p>
<p>Advanced point and shoots are pretty much the same as above but with much more powerful lenses and zoom capabilities. If you were bummed about not getting to control depth of field on the point and shoot, you’ll be happy to hear these cameras are much better at separating foreground from background.</p>
<p>We’re going to make <em>two</em> recommendations in the $200-$400 price range. Up first, at the low end of this price range is the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EFILPHA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00EFILPHA&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon PowerShot SX510 HS</a>:</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1206" style="width: 360px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EFILPHA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00EFILPHA&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1206" class=" wp-image-1206 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_SX510_HS.jpg" alt="DIYCraftPhotography recommends the Canon PowerShot SX510 HS for crafters with a $200ish budget" width="350" height="263" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_SX510_HS.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_SX510_HS-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1206" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EFILPHA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00EFILPHA&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon PowerShot SX510 HS</a> – it’s a point and shoot… with benefits!</p></div></p>
<p>This camera’s been haunting the top of Amazon’s best-selling digital camera list for a while, and it’s no wonder: it offers <strong>manual and fully automatic </strong>shooting modes, beautiful 1080p (high definition)<strong> video recording,</strong> clear photos of moving objects, good performance in low light, and even includes a wifi picture transfer feature.</p>
<p>At the higher end of this price range we recommend the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0MZ1M/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009B0MZ1M&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon PowerShot SX50 HS</a>:</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1207" style="width: 410px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_powershot_sx50_hs.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1207" class=" wp-image-1207 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_powershot_sx50_hs.jpg" alt="DIYCraftPhotography recommends the Canon PowerShot SX50 HS for crafters with a budget of about $350." width="400" height="300" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_powershot_sx50_hs.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_powershot_sx50_hs-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1207" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0MZ1M/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009B0MZ1M&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon PowerShot SX50 HS</a> adds several really nice features over the SX510</p></div></p>
<p><strong>What’s the difference between the SX50 and the SX510?</strong> The extra $150 on the Sx50 gets you a <strong>flip-out screen</strong>, <strong>more zoom</strong>, <strong>faster shooting</strong> (more shots per second), and better <strong>maximum light sensitivity</strong> (6400 ISO vs 3200 ISO). If you have another $150 or so, you’ll love this almost-a-DSLR camera.</p>
<p><strong><strong>Advanced Point and Shoot </strong>Advantages</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Almost no learning curve</li>
<li>Budget friendly</li>
<li>Portable & pocket-sized</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><strong>Advanced Point and Shoot </strong>Disadvantages</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>You’re so very close to affording a DSLR, which lets you swap the lenses</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Think twice before buying an advanced point and shoot if…</strong></p>
<p>You’re really itching for control over your shots and are ready to invest a little time in learning more advanced photography techniques outside of simply photographing crafts and food. These cameras offer a manual mode, but you might feel limited if you’re really looking to grow your skills.</p>
<h2>But wait, there’s more!</h2>
<p>At the very <em>tippy top</em> of this price range you’re actually in DSLR territory! The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3Y9U6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3Y9U6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon Rebel T3</a> is<em> just</em> inside this range with the “kit lens” (that’s the lens it comes with the camera, but it’s detachable). This camera is extremely popular and it takes fantastic photos, especially if you invest later on in a very nice lens to go with it.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1209" style="width: 360px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_rebel_t3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1209" class="wp-image-1209 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_rebel_t3.jpg" alt="The Canon Rebel T3 is a popular entry-level DSLR thanks to its low price-tag and massive assortment of available lenses." width="350" height="263" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_rebel_t3.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_rebel_t3-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1209" class="wp-caption-text">The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3Y9U6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3Y9U6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon Rebel T3</a> is a popular starter DSLR</p></div></p>
<p><a href="http://snapsort.com">Snapsort.com</a>, a handy camera comparison site, actually<a href="http://snapsort.com/compare/Canon-PowerShot-SX510-HS-vs-Canon-T3"> ranks the SX510 just a teeny bit better than the T3</a>, but the T3 gives you the opportunity to <strong>change the lens</strong>. Remember, the real value is in the lens – an expensive lens on a cheap body is MUCH better than a cheap lens on an expensive camera.</p>
<p>Interchangeable lenses open up to a world of possibilities. If you know you’ll be able to put another $100-$300+ into a lens later on, go with the Rebel T3. Learn how to use it with the kit lens and, once you’ve got some practice and know what you need, get a specialized lens to really amp up your photos.</p>
<p>Going with a DSLR also gets you a <strong>much larger sensor</strong> (for more detailed photos), <strong>higher resolution</strong>, the ability to <strong>shoot RAW</strong> (an advanced form of jpg that makes it easier to edit aspects of photos individually), <strong>longer battery life</strong>, more <strong>focus points</strong>. But really, the key here with the T3 is the ability to change what it’s “good at” by swapping lenses.</p>
<p><strong>Think twice before buying a DSLR if…</strong></p>
<p>You’re really not sure you want so many buttons and settings to fiddle with (the camera offers an auto mode) or you’re not sure you want to get into lens buying or spend even more money on photography equipment. That’s okay – the SX51o is on pretty much on par with the kit lens T3 and will suit your needs just fine.</p>
<h1>Best Camera for $400-$600</h1>
<p>If you’re serious about photography (ie: not just gonna take a few snapshots and call it a day), you’ll love a mid-range “entry level” DSLR. Don’t let the “entry level” nomer on some of these cameras dissuade you – these cameras are fantastic. (Plus, the next big price/quality jump adds about $1,000 to the price tag with diminishing returns for product photographers.)</p>
<p>In this price range, we recommend the Nikon D3200 (available in red and black). It beats the pants off of the Canon T3 we recommend for buyers in the $400 range in Snapsort.com <a href="http://snapsort.com/compare/Canon-T3-vs-Nikon-D3200">comparisons</a> and it’s <a href="/best-dslr-cameras-under-500-spring-2014/">our top pick from the best-selling DSLRs of early 2014</a>. This camera continues to edge out its competitors and at just under $500 at most retailers, you’ll have a little cash left over to put towards a lens upgrade later on.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1175" style="width: 325px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_d3200_side.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1175" class="wp-image-1175 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_d3200_side.jpg" alt="The Nikon D3200 is one of DIYCraftPhotography's favorite cameras - a powerhouse camera with an affordable price tag." width="315" height="291" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_d3200_side.jpg 450w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_d3200_side-300x277.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 315px) 100vw, 315px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1175" class="wp-caption-text">Nikon D3200 and its versatile multi-purpose kit lens</p></div></p>
<p><strong>Good rule of thumb for buying a DSLR:</strong> spend as little as you can on the <em>camera</em> and as much as you can on the the <em>lenses</em>.</p>
<p>There’s a bit of a mental shift required when going from a point and shoot to a DSLR: <strong>lenses matter more than the camera body!</strong></p>
<p>For $400-$600 you can get a great camera body (the kind that used to cost well over $1,000+ just a few years ago) with a kit lens (that’s the “default” lens that comes with the camera). Pocket the leftover money for a future lens purchase once you’ve familiarized yourself with your new camera and determined which of the 100+ available lenses will best suit your needs. And don’t worry – for crafts and portraits you’ll only feel the need for one or two additional lens, not dozens.</p>
<p><strong><strong>DSLR </strong>Advantages</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Incredible, professional shot quality</li>
<li>Big variety of lenses to customize your camera to your shooting needs</li>
</ul>
<p>Psst: We wrote an <a href="/dslr-advantages-over-point-and-shoot-cameras/">entire article on the advantages of DSLRs over point and shoots</a> – check it out!</p>
<p>Also, there’s <em>this</em>:</p>
<p><div style="width: 650px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.livecrafteat.com/behind-the-scenes/i-used-to-use-a-point-and-shoot-camera/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/live_craft_eat_point_and_click_vs_DSLR.jpg" alt="Point and shoot vs. DSLR from Katie at LiveCraftEat" width="640" height="269" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Point and shoot vs. DSLR: <a href="http://www.livecrafteat.com/behind-the-scenes/i-used-to-use-a-point-and-shoot-camera/">Katie at LiveCraftEat upgraded</a> to a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042X9LC4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0042X9LC4&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon D7000 DSLR</a> and showed readers the fabulous results!</p></div></p>
<p><strong>DSLR Disadvantages</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Lenses = prepare for sticker shock.</strong> A good lens might cost more than your camera itself! Lenses are one of the few things in life where you get what you pay for, though. Pricey lenses are worth it – especially if you intend to keep the lenses for years to come.</li>
<li><strong>DSLRs are larger and heavier than a point and shoot. </strong>There’s no way around this one, these cameras don’t fit easily into purses and definitely not into pockets.<strong><br />
</strong></li>
<li><strong>Big and bulky.</strong> If you hope to carry it around on vacations, you’ll need to invest in some carrying equipment and actually, um, <em>carry</em> it.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Think twice before buying if…</strong></p>
<p>You’re not really interested in acquiring another hobby, because that’s what photography will be with a DSLR (at least for a while). You’ll have to spend some time learning how to use the camera. The rewards are worth it, but if you’re certain that’s not you, then you could stay in the advanced point and shoot category and be quite happy.</p>
<h1>Best Camera for $600-$999</h1>
<p>Got even more to spend? Get the same camera you’d get if you had $400-$600 and put that extra cash into a <em>GREAT</em> lens!</p>
<p><strong>Same rule applies:</strong> spend as little as you’re comfortable with on the body, and as much as you can on the lenses.</p>
<p>Camera bodies in this price range ($600-$900) add more battery life, weather sealing, secondary storage slots, faster shutter speeds, a larger viewfinder, and more focus points, but these gains might not be worth the doubling of price for someone who is only photographing models and products. If you <em>do</em> want to spend this kind of money on the body alone, we recommend the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042X9LC4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0042X9LC4&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon D7000</a>.</p>
<p>Camera bodies come and go but <strong>lenses</strong> represent a huge opportunity to up your photo game<strong>. </strong>A quality lens can cost anywhere from $100-$500+, depending on what you get and whether or not it’s a “prime” or a “focus” lens. <strong>For craft/product photography, look for a 50mm f/1.8 lens in the $150-$300 price range. </strong>That’s a lot of jargon – but you’ll see it a lot if you go with a DSLR. The “50mm” is the most important part. Run a <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=kit+lens+vs+50mm&espv=210&es_sm=122&tbm=isch&imgil=nVDdcsBswhRDWM%253A%253Bhttps%253A%252F%252Fencrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com%252Fimages%253Fq%253Dtbn%253AANd9GcQBAusMXxN_hTkRfEq4qo-wlzztFN6OkCjmGLyf6fcG6rJQ77ibMQ%253B1600%253B1039%253BQsmMhNduBzQfFM%253Bhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Fthaasian.deviantart.com%25252Fart%25252FKit-lens-vs-50mm-prime-299338780&source=iu&usg=__SV_jf3XGZNrrw0Wpt22OAmdUwrg%3D&sa=X&ei=MAoYU5jiB8j8oAT1vYGoAQ&ved=0CCwQ9QEwAA&biw=1680&bih=860#facrc=_&imgdii=nVDdcsBswhRDWM%3A%3B4gSfGj2yW50aMM%3BnVDdcsBswhRDWM%3A&imgrc=nVDdcsBswhRDWM%253A%3BQsmMhNduBzQfFM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Ffc00.deviantart.net%252Ffs71%252Fi%252F2012%252F121%252F7%252F3%252Fkit_lens_vs_50mm_prime_by_thaasian-d4y7va4.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fthaasian.deviantart.com%252Fart%252FKit-lens-vs-50mm-prime-299338780%3B1600%3B1039">Google Image Search on the phrase “kit lens vs 50mm”</a> to see a ton of examples of what a specialized lens can do for your photography.</p>
<p>For craft photographers with up to $1000 to spend, we recommend the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGFZU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGFZU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon D3200</a> and one of the following two lenses.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1175" style="width: 370px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGFZU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGFZU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1175" class=" wp-image-1175 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_d3200_side.jpg" alt="DIYCraftPhotography recommends the Nikon D3200 plus a fabulous lens to crafters with nearly $1000 to spend" width="360" height="333" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_d3200_side.jpg 450w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_d3200_side-300x277.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1175" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGFZU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGFZU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon D3200</a> and its kit lens</p></div></p>
<p><strong>Versatile lens recommendation:</strong> The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-35mm-1-8G-Digital-Cameras/dp/B001S2PPT0/ref=cm_cmu_pg__header">Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S</a> is a flexible “prime” (non-zooming) auto-focusing lens capable of putting a beautiful background blur behind small, close-up objects as well as shooting larger scenes with incredible clarity. Your subjects will have to be at least 1 foot away from the lens, making this lens great for larger items like clothing and human models. If you need to get super close, save your pennies and go to the next lens instead.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1210" style="width: 233px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_35mm_18_lens.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1210" class="wp-image-1210 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_35mm_18_lens.jpg" alt="Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S" width="223" height="221" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_35mm_18_lens.jpg 372w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_35mm_18_lens-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_35mm_18_lens-300x297.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 223px) 100vw, 223px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1210" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-35mm-1-8G-Digital-Cameras/dp/B001S2PPT0/ref=cm_cmu_pg__header">Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S</a> is versatile but can’t get closer than about a foot away from subjects</p></div></p>
<p><strong>Close-up lens recommendation:</strong> This lens can do landscape and portraits and all that but it <em>also</em> takes stunning photos of super tiny things. If you’re going to be shooting jewelry, craft supplies, or food, consider the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005C50H2Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005C50H2Y&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon 40mm f/2.8G AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR Lens</a>. Yes, it costs more, but it lets you get <strong>extremely close </strong>and the<strong> clarity and bokeh will knock your socks off.</strong></p>
<p>If your crafts aren’t tiny, though, you can probably get away with the previous lens and pocket the savings.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1215" style="width: 290px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005C50H2Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005C50H2Y&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1215" class=" wp-image-1215 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_DX_af_s_micro.jpg" alt="Nikon 40mm f/2.8G AF-S DX Micro" width="280" height="210" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_DX_af_s_micro.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nikon_DX_af_s_micro-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1215" class="wp-caption-text">The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005C50H2Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005C50H2Y&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon 40mm f/2.8G AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR Lens</a> can auto-focus on things just 6.4 inches away.</p></div></p>
<p><strong>Think twice before buying a DSLR + lenses if…</strong></p>
<p>Don’t rush into lens buying unless you’re sure the kit lens won’t meet your needs. (And if you are <em>certain</em> you don’t want the kit lens, you can save around $100 and buy the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GB1ISTW/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00GB1ISTW&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">camera body by itself</a>.)</p>
<p>The blurry backgrounds from a 50mm lens are absolutely gorgeous and if your items are tiny, a close up lens will work wonders. but if you’re thrilled with what the camera and kit lens can do (and you will be… for a while :D) you might as well pocket the difference.</p>
<h1>Best Camera for $1000-$3000</h1>
<p>You have a <em>lot</em> of options if your budget is between $1000 and about $3000. There’s really no limit to how much you<em> can</em> spend on photography equipment, since professional cameras run all the way into five-digits (yes, like how much you might pay for a <strong>car</strong>).</p>
<p>Only consider spending this kind of money on a camera and lens set if you’re interested in photography beyond selling/blogging your crafts and you can actually afford to do so. If you want to be your family’s go-to photographer or are thinking of starting a side (or main) business as a photographer and you’ve got the cash to spare, then it might make sense to splash out on a camera body. (But seriously, the previous category’s got you covered even for those things.)</p>
<p>That’s not to say there<em> aren’t</em> bloggers and crafters out there using prosumer cameras. The incredible (and not to mention <em>massively popular</em>) photos from <a href="http://pinchofyum.com/">PinchOfYum</a> are shot with a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0MZ8U/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009B0MZ8U&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon EOS 6D DSLR</a> and a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00009XVCZ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00009XVCZ&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 telephoto lens</a>. (Take a peek at those cameras on Amazon – yes, this is <strong>serious</strong> photography equipment!)</p>
<p>Since I’m madly in love with <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pinchofyum/pinch-of-yum-on-the-blog/">Pinch of Yum’s photos</a>, I’m gonna go ahead and recommend their equipment:</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1192" style="width: 410px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_eos_6D.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1192" class=" wp-image-1192 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_eos_6D.jpg" alt="canon_eos_6D" width="400" height="300" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_eos_6D.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_eos_6D-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1192" class="wp-caption-text">The highly reviewed prosumer <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0MZG2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009B0MZG2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Canon EOS 6D</a> is shown here without a lens. (You weren’t going to use a basic kit lens on it anyway, were you?)</p></div></p>
<p><div id="attachment_1193" style="width: 304px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_EF_50mm_f14lens.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1193" class=" wp-image-1193 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_EF_50mm_f14lens.jpg" alt="canon_EF_50mm_f14lens" width="294" height="227" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_EF_50mm_f14lens.jpg 490w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/03/canon_EF_50mm_f14lens-300x231.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 294px) 100vw, 294px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1193" class="wp-caption-text">50mm lenses are what we recommend to crafters and portrait photographers. This is one seriously high quality lens: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00009XVCZ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00009XVCZ&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 lens</a></p></div></p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00009XVCZ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00009XVCZ&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 lens</a> offers resistance to chromatic abberation, autofocus, brilliant color saturation, and buttery smooth bokeh.</p>
<p><strong>Prefer Nikon?</strong></p>
<p>We also love the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042X9LC4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0042X9LC4&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon D7000</a> (if we have any complaint, it’s that it’s noticeably heavier than the D3200) and the extra cash in your budget can be spent on some incredible lenses.</p>
<p><em>Psst: These are the same lenses we recommend above for the D3200.</em></p>
<ol>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Y1AYAC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004Y1AYAC&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon 50mm f/1.8G AF-S NIKKOR FX Lens</a> for models, animals, and small crafts</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005C50H2Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005C50H2Y&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon 40mm f/2.8G AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR Lens</a> for extreme close ups of jewelry, trinkets, and details shots</li>
</ol>
<p><strong><strong>Prosumer DSLR </strong>Advantages</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>The only limit is your imagination – these are professional cameras</li>
<li>Compatible with your entry level DSLR lenses, if you have some</li>
<li>The camera body should last you a very long time, you shouldn’t feel the need to upgrade for years</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Prosumer DSLR Disadvantages</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>You<em> have</em> to know what you’re doing</strong> to get full value out of a prosumer cameras. An expensive camera and lens can’t save you from yourself. If you’re brand new to photography or new to DSLRs, there’s no way around it: you’ll have to put in many hours to truly understand and master this equipment.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Think twice before buying a higher tier DSLR if…</strong></p>
<p>You think the camera’s going to do all the heavy lifting for you. Nope! <em>You</em> are still the most important factor here. Even the best camera and lens setup in the world can’t give you good lighting conditions and create beautiful compositions in your camera. Successful photographers like Pinch of Yum obsess over lighting and composition – you’ll need to do the same to get the same results.</p>
<h1>Choosing a Camera Manufacturer</h1>
<p>You know how there’s no one right car for everyone? Cameras are the <em>same way!</em> Sorry – there’s no easy answer. Choosing a camera brand is a lot like deciding whether you prefer Toyota or Honda. You can drive yourself completely nuts debating Nikon vs. Canon vs. Fujifilm vs. Olympus vs. Pentax.</p>
<h2><strong>Test drive it!</strong></h2>
<p>If you can, <strong>use the camera you’re considering</strong> or at least<strong> hold it</strong> before you buy – that will tell you more than hundreds of hours of reading on the Internet ever will. In my own personal experience, I only had to hold a Canon camera body for a few moments to know that I preferred the feel of a Nikon.</p>
<p>The Internet is full of arguments over whether Canon or Nikon is better, since these two manufacturers represent about 80% of the marketshare, and the fact that no one’s “won” this argument is a testament to just how good both these manufacturers are. The pros use Canon and Nikon almost 50/50. Brands like Pentax, Fujifilm, Olympus and a host of others offer their own unique advantages. The car analogy works here, too – all cars can get you from point A to point B, the rest is details.</p>
<p>For beginners, I like to recommend Canon or Nikon because these brands have such large user bases. Lots of people using these cameras means means there are lots of how-to videos, guides, and reviews on accessories out there.</p>
<h1>The Final Word</h1>
<p>You can spend a lot of time reading reviews, but this is what it boils down to: get a camera, read the manual, start taking pics.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p><em>Some links in this article are Amazon Affiliate links. Read DIYCraftPhotography’s <a href="/affiliate-disclosure/">full disclosure here</a>.</em></p>
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</item>
<item>
<title>Best DSLR Cameras Under $500 Comparison and Buyer’s Guide (Updated Quarterly)</title>
<link>/best-dslr-cameras-under-500-dollars/</link>
<comments>/best-dslr-cameras-under-500-dollars/#comments</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[M. Johnson]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sun, 02 Mar 2014 14:30:13 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[DSLR Cameras]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[cameras]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[DSLR comparison]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[DSLR reviews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[under $500]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">/?p=1014</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Welcome to DIYCraftPhotography’s detailed guide to the best DSLR cameras under $500! Updated quarterly! Last update: 11/4/2014 Are you still using a point and shoot? If you’re ready to kick everything up a level, you might be ready for a DSLR camera! Crafters, food bloggers, and Etsy shop owners will be blown away by how...</p><p><a class="more-link" href="/best-dslr-cameras-under-500-dollars/">Read More</a></p>]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/our_favorite_DSLR_cameras_under_500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1295" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/our_favorite_DSLR_cameras_under_500.jpg" alt="DIYCraftPhotography's guide to the Best DSLR Cameras under $500!" width="441" height="364" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/our_favorite_DSLR_cameras_under_500.jpg 441w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/03/our_favorite_DSLR_cameras_under_500-300x247.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 441px) 100vw, 441px" /></a></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Welcome to DIYCraftPhotography’s detailed guide to the best DSLR cameras under $500!</strong></p>
<p><strong>Updated quarterly! Last update: 11/4/2014</strong></p>
<p>Are you still using a point and shoot? If you’re ready to kick everything up a level, you might be ready for a DSLR camera! Crafters, food bloggers, and Etsy shop owners will be blown away by how powerful a $400-500 DSLR can be. It all starts with a photo, and for many crafts, the depth of field and improved clarity offered by a DSLR is 100% worth the expense. Only the <em>best</em> photos get re-pins and make sales, after all. (<a href="/dslr-advantages-over-point-and-shoot-cameras/">Read about the advantages of a DSLR camera here!</a>)</p>
<p>If you’re in the market for a DSLR you might have landed here trying to figure out which DSLR is right for you. The sheer variety and terminology can be overwhelming. In this article, we’re going to look exclusively at the <strong>best DSLR cameras (+ kit lenses) priced at or under $500. </strong></p>
<p><strong>How we find the best DSLRs:</strong> Every few months, we look at the best selling DSLR cameras and rank them. After years of looking at cameras, we have quite a few opinions! Photography sites, Amazon reviews, professional photographer friends, and a few trips to local camera stores helps us choose the four very best DSLRs under $500.</p>
<p><em>Camera data comes from Amazon.com, SnapSort.com, and manufacturer websites. Links to Amazon.com are affiliate links. Last updated: November 2014.</em></p>
<h1>Best DSLR Cameras Under $500 Comparison Chart</h1>
<p>
<table id="tablepress-6" class="tablepress tablepress-id-6">
<thead>
<tr class="row-1 odd">
<th class="column-1"></th><th class="column-2"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3V90Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3V90Y&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://diycraftphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_eos_rebel_t3i_icon1.jpg" alt="" width="100" height="83" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1067"></a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3V90Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3V90Y&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon EOS Rebel T3i</a></th><th class="column-3"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGFZU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGFZU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://diycraftphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/nikon_d3200.jpg" alt="" width="100" height="83" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1080"/></a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGFZU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGFZU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Nikon D3200</a></th><th class="column-4"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3Y9U6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3Y9U6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://diycraftphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_eos_rebel_t3.jpg" alt="" width="100" height="83" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1073" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3Y9U6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3Y9U6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon EOS Rebel T3 </a></th><th class="column-5"><a href="http://diycraftphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/nikon_d3100.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://diycraftphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/nikon_d3100.jpg" alt="" width="100" height="83" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1081" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003ZYF3LO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003ZYF3LO&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Nikon D3100</a></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody class="row-hover">
<tr class="row-2 even">
<td class="column-1"><b>Standout / Unique features</b></td><td class="column-2"><b>Wifi connectivity with adapter</b>, record full HD video <b>with full-time auto focus</b>, available in red or black, remote control supported</td><td class="column-3">"Intelligent Auto Mode", full HD video, <b>flip-out LCD screen</b>, 3.7 still shots per second, optional battery grip, remote control supported</td><td class="column-4">Similar to T3i but less expensive, 3 still shots per second, remote control supported<br />
</td><td class="column-5">Full-time auto focusing while shooting video</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-3 odd">
<td class="column-1"><b>Amazon.com price</b></td><td class="column-2"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003ZYF3LO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003ZYF3LO&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Click for current price</a></td><td class="column-3"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGFZU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGFZU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Click for current price</a></td><td class="column-4"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3Y9U6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3Y9U6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Click for current price</td><td class="column-5"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003ZYF3LO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003ZYF3LO&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Click for current price</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-4 even">
<td class="column-1"><b>Kit lens</b></td><td class="column-2">EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens</td><td class="column-3">18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR NIKKOR Zoom Lens<br />
<br />
</td><td class="column-4">18-55mm IS II Lens</td><td class="column-5">18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-5 odd">
<td class="column-1"><b>ISO Range</b></td><td class="column-2">ISO 100 - 6400</td><td class="column-3"> ISO 100 to 6400 and expandable up to ISO 12800 equivalent</td><td class="column-4">ISO 100 - 6400</td><td class="column-5">ISO 100 - 3200 and expandable to ISO 12800 equivalent</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-6 even">
<td class="column-1"><b>Resolution (megapixels)</b></td><td class="column-2">17.9 MP</td><td class="column-3">24.2 MP</td><td class="column-4">12.2 MP</td><td class="column-5">14.2 MP</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-7 odd">
<td class="column-1"><b>Startup Delay</b></td><td class="column-2">1500 ms</td><td class="column-3">400 ms</td><td class="column-4">300 ms</td><td class="column-5">400 ms</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-8 even">
<td class="column-1"><b>Sensor Size</b></td><td class="column-2">APS-C 22.3x14.9mm</td><td class="column-3">APS-C 23.2x15.4mm</td><td class="column-4">APS-C 22.2x14.7mm</td><td class="column-5">APS-C 23.1x15.4mm</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-9 odd">
<td class="column-1"><b>Body dimensions</b></td><td class="column-2">133 x 99 x 79mm</td><td class="column-3">125 x 96 x 76mm</td><td class="column-4">130 x 100 x 78mm</td><td class="column-5">124 x 96 x 73mm</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-10 even">
<td class="column-1"><b>Focus points</b></td><td class="column-2">9</td><td class="column-3">11</td><td class="column-4">9</td><td class="column-5">11</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-11 odd">
<td class="column-1"><b>Shots per second</b></td><td class="column-2">4 fps</td><td class="column-3">3.7 fps</td><td class="column-4">3 fps</td><td class="column-5">3 fps</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-12 even">
<td class="column-1"><b>Built-in focus motor (autofocuses with all autofocus lenses)</b></td><td class="column-2">Built-in</td><td class="column-3">None</td><td class="column-4">Built-in</td><td class="column-5">None</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-13 odd">
<td class="column-1"><b>Video resolution</b></td><td class="column-2">1080p @ 30fps</td><td class="column-3">1080p @ 30fps</td><td class="column-4">720p @ 30fps</td><td class="column-5">1080p @ 24fps</td>
</tr>
<tr class="row-14 even">
<td class="column-1"><b>Video auto-focus</b></td><td class="column-2">None</td><td class="column-3">Contrast detection</td><td class="column-4">None</td><td class="column-5">Contrast detection</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<!-- #tablepress-6 from cache --></p>
<h2>What are the differences between all these cameras?</h2>
<p>These are <strong>all</strong> “upper entry-level” cameras. If all you have right now is a point-and-shoot camera, you’ll be blown away by any of them. Each of these cameras has a <strong>4.5 out of 5 star ratings</strong> from hundreds (if not thousands) of Amazon.com reviewers. Let’s take a closer look at each of these great cameras:</p>
<h3><strong>Canon T3i</strong><strong> advantages </strong><strong>& disadvantages</strong></h3>
<p><div id="attachment_1088" style="width: 210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3V90Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3V90Y&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1088" class="size-full wp-image-1088 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/canon_dslr_rebel_t3i.jpg" alt="canon_dslr_rebel_t3i" width="200" height="200" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/canon_dslr_rebel_t3i.jpg 200w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/canon_dslr_rebel_t3i-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1088" class="wp-caption-text">Popular camera: the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3V90Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3V90Y&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon EOS Rebel T3i</a> is Amazon’s best selling DSLR, period.</p></div></p>
<p>The <strong>Canon T3i is ranked #1 in Amazon’s best seller list</strong> and it’s no surprise because this camera delivers <strong>astounding photos</strong>, <strong>excellent on-camera help</strong>, and a <strong>quality (detachable) kit lens</strong>. The camera supports a huge range of ISO settings (100 – 6400) for shooting in bright and dim lighting. “Auto mode” and “scene modes” make it easy to just start shooting, and advanced options let you grow into the camera.</p>
<p><strong>Included in the box</strong></p>
<p>Camera body, EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Type II lens, eye cup, wide strap, USB cable, AV cable for TV previews, battery, and charger.</p>
<p><strong>Disadvantages </strong></p>
<p>Some T3i owners complain that Canon lenses are slow to auto focus when using the LCD preview. The Canon T3i offers a swivel-out LCD screen, which is great when recording video, but while the HD video looks great on this camera it <strong>doesn’t auto-focus while recording video</strong> (the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00894YWD0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00894YWD0&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon T4i</a> added this feature). If you plan on shooting HD video, this camera isn’t a perfect camcorder replacement.</p>
<p>For a camcorder-like capabilities plus an even bigger range of ISO, a touch screen, and wireless transfer of your photos to your smartphone or social networking, consider the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Digital-Camera-18-135mm-F3-5-5-6/dp/B00DMS0LCO/ref=pd_rhf_dp_s_cp_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=0QMSMBFW8TRE53WMM53N">Canon EOS 70D</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Suggested D3200 Accessories</strong></p>
<p>You’ll need a memory card, as the T3i doesn’t come with one. This <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008CVHLT2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B008CVHLT2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Transcend brand 32 GB high speed flash memory card</a> offers loads of space and is fast enough to keep up with HD video recording.</p>
<h3><strong>Nikon D3200<strong> advantages </strong></strong><strong>& disadvantages</strong></h3>
<p><div id="attachment_1089" style="width: 210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_d3200_large_red.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1089" class="size-full wp-image-1089 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_d3200_large_red.jpg" alt="nikon_d3200_large_red" width="200" height="200" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_d3200_large_red.jpg 200w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_d3200_large_red-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1089" class="wp-caption-text">Colorful: The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGFZU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGFZU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon D3200</a> is offered in both red and black body colors.</p></div></p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGFZU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGFZU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon D3200</a> is Amazon’s 2nd-best selling DSLR under $500. The D3200’s claims to fame are its <strong>astounding photo quality</strong>, <strong>excellent on-camera help</strong>, and its high quality <strong>kit lens</strong>. Camera features include a fast start up time, auto-focus while shooting HD video, and “scene modes” for common shooting conditions. The D3200 offers an improved LCD over its predecessor the Nikon D3100. The 24MP are eye-catching, but their benefit really only kicks in at low ISO settings (200-300) prior to when noise reduction sets in. Product photography tends to be well-lit, so a high pixel count isn’t quite so meaningful for us crafters.</p>
<p>The D3200’s 11-point autofocusing helps you track moving subjects and an optional wireless mobile adapter lets you send photos to your smartphone wirelessly for quick sharing. Anti-shake and a bright LCD round out the package.</p>
<p><strong>Included in the box</strong></p>
<p>Camera body, 1-AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens, charger cable, USB cabpe, rubber eyecup, camera stap, eyepiece cap, body cap, accessory shoe cover.</p>
<p><strong>Disadvantages</strong></p>
<p>Some D3200 owners complain that the camera is a bit small in their hands and that the camera tends to overexpose shots, requiring you to set your exposure lower to compensate. If you’re shooting RAW jpg (optional format, some choose it for more post-processing options), be warned that the NEF RAW format used by the D3200 can only be processed by Photoshop CS5 and above (or equivalent software).</p>
<p><strong>Suggested D3200 Accessories</strong></p>
<p>You’ll need a memory card, as this camera doesn’t come with one. This <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008CVHLT2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B008CVHLT2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Transcend brand 32 GB high speed flash memory card</a> offers loads of space and is fast enough to keep up with HD video recording.</p>
<h3><strong>Canon T3<strong> advantages</strong></strong><strong> </strong><strong>& disadvantages</strong></h3>
<p><div id="attachment_1095" style="width: 210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/canon_DSLR_t3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1095" class="size-full wp-image-1095 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/canon_DSLR_t3.jpg" alt="canon_DSLR_t3" width="200" height="200" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/canon_DSLR_t3.jpg 200w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/canon_DSLR_t3-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1095" class="wp-caption-text">Low-priced powerhouse: The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J3Y9U6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J3Y9U6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon T3</a> is a powerful body in an inexpensive package.</p></div></p>
<p>The Canon T3 is the lowest-priced DSLR in this list, yet the <strong>photo quality is incredible (especially with an upgraded lens).</strong> The ISO range is 100-6400 for dim to brightly lit photos, and a 9-point auto-focus system ensures your shots come out clear. Select a “scene type” and the camera takes care of white balance settings for you. Traditional photography advice holds that you should <em>“underspend on the camera and over-spend on the lens”</em>. This camera body may be inexpensive, but the savings may enable you to purchase a higher quality lens.</p>
<p><strong>Included in the box</strong></p>
<p>Camera body, EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Type II Lens, eye cup, wide strap, USB cable, battery, and charger.</p>
<p><strong>T3 Disadvantages</strong></p>
<p>This camera does not do full HD video (1080p) – you’ll be limited to 720p. If you don’t care about video, then you could <strong>save yourself the hundred bucks</strong> by going with this camera over the T3i. Some reviewers complain of a “cheap” feel to the camera’s smooth plastic body (notice the other cameras in this list have a “grippy” texture). Others express dissatisfaction with the kit lens.</p>
<p><strong>Suggested T3 Accessories</strong></p>
<p>Consider using some of those savings to get a very high-quality lens such as the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00009XVCZ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00009XVCZ&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon EF 50mm</a>. Yes, this lens costs almost as much as the body – but this is an incredible lens, and you’ll be super happy with the photo quality. Blurry backgrounds, sharp images are perfect for your crafts. (Note: this is a “prime lens”, not a zoom lens, so you’ll need to adjust your standing position to get the shot as you like it.)</p>
<p>For smaller products (and budets) we also recommend the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00007E7JU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00007E7JU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon 50mm f1.8 II Camera Lens</a>.</p>
<p>You’ll need a memory card, too. This <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008CVHLT2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B008CVHLT2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Transcend brand 32 GB high speed flash memory card</a> offers plenty of space and is fast enough to keep up with video recording.</p>
<h3><strong>Nikon D3100 <strong> advantages</strong></strong><strong> </strong><strong>& disadvantages</strong></h3>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003ZYF3LO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003ZYF3LO&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-1096 alignnone" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_d3100_large.jpg" alt="nikon_d3100_large" width="200" height="200" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_d3100_large.jpg 200w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_d3100_large-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /></a></p>
<p>The Nikon D3100 is the second-lowest priced camera (priced just a touch over the Canon T3), but it’s still a superstar camera. <strong>Fantastic image quality</strong>, <strong>full-time auto focus while shooting HD video</strong>, <strong>fast start-up time</strong>, “scene modes” for common shooting conditions, on-camera help, and more. Video capture is at full HD (1080p) and comes with full-time auto-focus.</p>
<p><strong>Included in the box</strong></p>
<p>Camera body, EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Type II Lens, eye cup, wide strap, USB cable, battery, and charger.</p>
<p><strong>D3100 Disadvantages </strong></p>
<p>This is an earlier version of the Nikon D3200, but it’s essentially the same camera inside. The key difference is the D3100’s viewfinder and LCD lag aren’t as good as the D3200’s. If you’re not bothered by this (and coming from a point and shoot, you probably won’t be), you can pocket nearly a hundred dollars by choosing the D3100 instead of the D3200.</p>
<p><strong>Suggested D3100 Accessories</strong></p>
<p>Some owners suggest upgrading from the stock lens. Consider getting a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001S2PPT0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001S2PPT0&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">35mm 1.8dx AFS</a> lens and/or the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Y1AYAC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004Y1AYAC&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon 50mm f/1.8G AF-S NIKKOR FX Lens</a> to go with this camera and you will be super happy with the D3100’s photo quality.</p>
<p>You’ll need a memory card, too. This <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008CVHLT2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B008CVHLT2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Transcend brand 32 GB high speed flash memory card</a> offers loads of space and is fast enough to keep up with HD video recording.</p>
<h2>What are the differences between Canon and Nikon?</h2>
<p>The biggest differences between Canon and Nikon is the<strong> on-camera user-interface</strong>. A common comparison is that of PCs vs. Macs, with Canons being Macs and Nikons being PCs.</p>
<p>Canon tries to make everything very user-friendly, but the icons can sometimes be puzzling. Nikon exposes options and features that beginners may find overwhelming, but will come to enjoy as they become more practiced. Once you’ve learned a lot about photography, Canons can become frustrating (advanced features hidden away from the user) and Nikons more appealing with their numerous features. These are generalizations, of course, but this is what the photography community usually tells people in response to this question.</p>
<h2>Are these cameras hard to learn?</h2>
<p><strong>Nope!</strong></p>
<p>In fact, all of these cameras offer an “auto” mode, giving you the familiarity of your point and shoot camera coupled with the optical quality of a DSLR. The advanced features will be there when you’re ready to explore them – you take your time!<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<h2>What kind of lens do these cameras come with? Is it useful for craft photography?</h2>
<p>All of these budget-friendly DSLR cameras ship with a <strong>18mm-55mm “kit lens”.</strong> This default lens is a zoom lens suitable for “everyday” use, meaning close ups, birthday shots, portraits, situations and can be used to get that oh-so-lovely blurred background behind average-sized crafts. However, you won’t be able to get <em>super close</em> with this stock lens. If your crafts are teeny tiny, you may need a different lens.</p>
<p>Remember, “good glass” (the lens) is far more important than the camera body itself and has the biggest impact on image quality. If you’re debating where to spend, underspend on the body and overspend on the lenses. A good 50mm f1.8 prime lens is a great complement to the kit lens.</p>
<p><strong>Lens Recommendations for Crafters</strong></p>
<p>For the <strong>Canon T3/T3i</strong> cameras, check out the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00007E7JU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00007E7JU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon 50mm f1.8 II Camera Lens</a> for those close-up product shots. Owners rave about this lens’s sharpness, color accuracy, beautiful close-up shots, blurred backgrounds, and versatility.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00007E7JU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00007E7JU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1125" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/canon_EF_50mm1.jpg" alt="Canon EF 50mm lens" width="280" height="278" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/canon_EF_50mm1.jpg 400w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/03/canon_EF_50mm1-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/03/canon_EF_50mm1-300x297.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">For the <strong>Nikon D3100/D3200</strong> cameras, consider the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Y1AYAC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004Y1AYAC&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon 50mm f/1.8G AF-S NIKKOR FX Lens</a>. Buyers rave about the fast auto-focus, sharpness, better bokeh (background blur) than the kit lens, and improved color consistency.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Y1AYAC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004Y1AYAC&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1126" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/nikon_50mm.jpg" alt="nikon_50mm" width="280" height="278" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/nikon_50mm.jpg 400w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/03/nikon_50mm-150x150.jpg 150w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/03/nikon_50mm-300x297.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Want to see what these 50mm lenses can do? </strong>Visit our <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/mandigrant/photos-taken-with-a-50mm-f18-lens/">“Photos taken with a 50mm f/1.8 lens” Pinterest board</a> to see real examples.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1111" style="width: 295px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/mandigrant/photos-taken-with-a-50mm-f18-lens/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1111" class=" wp-image-1111" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/pinterest_50mm_lens.jpg" alt="pinterest_50mm_lens" width="285" height="272" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/pinterest_50mm_lens.jpg 791w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/pinterest_50mm_lens-300x286.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 285px) 100vw, 285px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1111" class="wp-caption-text">Click to see our Pinterest board showcasing photos taken with a 50mm lens</p></div></p>
<h2>What’s the difference between a $500 DSLR and a $1,500 DSLR? Will I regret going “too cheap”? I don’t want to have to upgrade again in 2 years!</h2>
<p>If the only thing you’re seeking is amazing photo quality, you’ll be set for a long time with any of these cameras. Besides, you already know that the lens is more important than the camera body, anyway.</p>
<p>If you <em>do</em> have a bit of extra cash on hand, an extra thousand dollars invested into a higher-end DSLR buys some nice features:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Wireless photo transfer to social networks and smartphones</strong></li>
<li><strong>Wider range of supported ISO settings</strong></li>
<li><strong>More auto-focus points</strong></li>
<li><strong>Auto-focus in HD video recording (camcorder capabilities)</strong></li>
<li><strong>GPS</strong></li>
<li><strong>Lighter-weight body</strong></li>
<li><strong>Larger sensors, more megapixels</strong></li>
<li><strong>More still shots per second (5+)</strong></li>
<li><strong>Touch screen on back</strong></li>
<li><strong>Higher quality audio recording microphone</strong></li>
<li><strong>Weather sealing</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>These are features that 99% of Etsy sellers and food bloggers will <em>never</em> miss. So unless you’re taking photos for National Geographic or weddings, there’s a really good chance you’ll be thrilled for years with your sub-$500 DSLR camera purchase.</p>
<p>You should only think about buying a pricier camera if you’re actually interested in any of the following types of photography or situations:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>High speed photography?</strong> You may want to consider the 60D for faster continuous shooting (this upgrade will cost you between $300 and $400)</li>
<li><strong>Camcorder replacement?</strong> These under-$500 DSLRs can shoot HD video, but not indefinitely. 10-14 minutes of HD video is the max for all of these models.</li>
<li><strong>Shooting in the rain?</strong> These under-$500 DSLRs aren’t weather-sealed, but if you’d like to shoot in snow or rain consider the just-over-$500 <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0082OJ2X2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0082OJ2X2&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Pentax K-30</a>. This highly-reviewed DSLR is weather-sealed and comes with all the same features as the Canon and Nikon cameras detailed in this review.</li>
<li><strong>Carrying it all day?</strong> High end pro cameras are lighter weight, but that portability comes at a premium.</li>
<li><strong>Making photography your full-time job? </strong>This site is aimed at hobbyists and craft business owners. Seek advice from other pros before you buy a camera that’ll be responsible for putting food on your table! (But a lot of these best-selling DSLRs under $500 <em>are</em> touted as “budding wedding photographer” cameras, so there’s that.)</li>
</ul>
<p>If you’d like to look at the next step up, two higher-end DSLR leaders are the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DMS0LCO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00DMS0LCO&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon EOS 70D</a> and the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BI9X7UC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BI9X7UC&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon D7100</a>.</p>
<h2>What accessories should I get?</h2>
<p>Consider adding one or more of these accessories to maximize enjoyment of your new DSLR:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003VNKNF0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003VNKNF0&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><strong>Transcend 32GB Class 10 SDHC Flash Memory Card</strong></a></p>
<p>You probably have a bunch of these flash memory cards laying around your house already, but you’ll need a faster and bigger one to keep up with your DSLR. Fortunately, these cards are fairly inexpensive at under $20 for a whopping 32GB. Photo size varies with settings, but even if you’re shooting RAW 32GB should hold around 2,000 photos.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1109" style="width: 153px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003VNKNF0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003VNKNF0&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1109" class="wp-image-1109 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/transcend_32gb_card.jpg" alt="transcend_32gb_card" width="143" height="183" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/transcend_32gb_card.jpg 827w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/transcend_32gb_card-233x300.jpg 233w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/transcend_32gb_card-797x1024.jpg 797w" sizes="(max-width: 143px) 100vw, 143px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1109" class="wp-caption-text">Powerful memory card for powerful cameras!</p></div></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0039BPG1A/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0039BPG1A&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Case Logic DCB-304 Hybrid Camera Case</a></strong></p>
<p>At under $15 this high quality Case Logic bag is a no-brainer. Keep your camera safe at home or on the go!</p>
<p><div style="width: 219px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0039BPG1A/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0039BPG1A&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/case_logic_dcb_304.jpg" alt="case_logic_dcb_304" width="209" height="167" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Case Logic makes the <em>best</em> bags and you can’t beat that price.</p></div></p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000V7AF8E/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000V7AF8E&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><strong>Vista Explorer 60-inch Lightweight Tripod & Tripod Bag</strong></a></p>
<p>I’ve used one of these tripods for years and highly recommend it. It’s light as a feather yet rugged as a monster truck. Shooting crafts with a tripod is a great idea because it keeps the backgrounds and zoom levels consistent between shots. If you don’t already have a tripod, grab this one for under $25 – you’ll love it.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1102" style="width: 142px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/vista_tripod.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1102" class=" wp-image-1102 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/vista_tripod.jpg" alt="vista_tripod" width="132" height="245" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1102" class="wp-caption-text">All the bells and whistles in a sleek package.</p></div></p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003L1ZYZ6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003L1ZYZ6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><strong>Wireless Shutter Control Remote</strong></a></p>
<p>Put yourself in the shot – or just spare yourself a thousand trips back and forth to your camera with a wireless remote. These are seriously liberating – and for under $10, a remote is a steal!</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1105" style="width: 154px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003L1ZYZ6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003L1ZYZ6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1105" class="wp-image-1105 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/amazon_basics_remote.jpg" alt="amazon_basics_remote" width="144" height="177" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/amazon_basics_remote.jpg 400w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/amazon_basics_remote-244x300.jpg 244w" sizes="(max-width: 144px) 100vw, 144px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1105" class="wp-caption-text">Be sure to select the right brand for your camera!</p></div></p>
<h2>Just pick a camera for me!</h2>
<p>Go with the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGHW6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGHW6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Nikon D3200</a>. The D3200 is a popular choice among crafters and bloggers (including <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2012/09/accidental-upgrade/">Young House Love</a>). The D3200 holds a high position in most “best DSLR cameras under $500” lists. The video recording is full HD and supports autofocus while recording. Nikkor lenses are super high quality, and the camera’s auto modes let you start shooting the minute you unbox it.</p>
<p>Happy shooting!</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1107" style="width: 460px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGHW6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGHW6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1107" class="size-full wp-image-1107 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_d3200_side_black.jpg" alt="Nikon D2300: DIYCraftPhotography's recommended DSLR under $500" width="450" height="416" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_d3200_side_black.jpg 450w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_d3200_side_black-300x277.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1107" class="wp-caption-text">DIYCraftPhotography’s under-$500 DSLR recommended camera: the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGHW6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGHW6&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Nikon D3200</a>! Incredible photos, endless selection of lenses, and there’s even a snazzy red body color option.</p></div></p>
<p><em>Some links in this article are Amazon Affiliate links. Read DIYCraftPhotography’s <a href="/affiliate-disclosure/">full disclosure here</a>.</em></p>
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<item>
<title>DSLR Advantages over Point and Shoot Cameras for Crafters</title>
<link>/dslr-advantages-over-point-and-shoot-cameras/</link>
<comments>/dslr-advantages-over-point-and-shoot-cameras/#comments</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[M. Johnson]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sat, 01 Mar 2014 12:30:56 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[DSLR Cameras]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">/?p=1017</guid>
<description><![CDATA[DSLR cameras (that’s short for “digital single-lens reflex”) are the powerhouse cameras favored by serious photographers, bloggers, and craft businesses. DSLR cameras are larger, heavier, and more expensive than point and shoots. What can a DSLR do that a point and shoot camera can’t? Read on as we explain the biggest DSLR advantages over point and shoot...</p><p><a class="more-link" href="/dslr-advantages-over-point-and-shoot-cameras/">Read More</a></p>]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/DSLR_advantages_over_point_and_shoot_cameras_title.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1033" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/DSLR_advantages_over_point_and_shoot_cameras_title.jpg" alt="DSLR advantages over point and shoot cameras title" width="441" height="364" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/DSLR_advantages_over_point_and_shoot_cameras_title.jpg 441w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/DSLR_advantages_over_point_and_shoot_cameras_title-300x247.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 441px) 100vw, 441px" /></a></p>
<p>DSLR cameras (that’s short for <strong>“digital single-lens reflex”</strong>) are the <strong>powerhouse cameras</strong> favored by serious photographers, bloggers, and craft businesses. DSLR cameras are larger, heavier, and more expensive than point and shoots. <em>What can a DSLR do that a point and shoot camera can’t? </em></p>
<p>Read on as we explain <strong>the biggest DSLR advantages over point and shoot cameras!</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/DSLR_camera_vs_Point_and_Shoot_Camera.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1034" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/DSLR_camera_vs_Point_and_Shoot_Camera.jpg" alt="DSLR camera vs Point and Shoot Camera" width="500" height="325" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/DSLR_camera_vs_Point_and_Shoot_Camera.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/DSLR_camera_vs_Point_and_Shoot_Camera-300x195.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p>
<h1>DSLR Advantages over Point and Shoot Cameras</h1>
<h2><b>Lenses!</b></h2>
<p>Swapping lenses is like giving your camera new super powers. <strong>Lenses = versatility. </strong></p>
<p><em>Wait a minute – don’t point and shoot cameras come with lenses built in?</em> Yes, but those are “all purpose” lenses – they put everything into focus and that’s the end of it. On a DSLR, however, you can chooses lenses that put the background out of focus, magnify tiny details, or photograph objects thousands of feet (or miles) away with clarity.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1026" style="width: 310px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/rebel_t3i_feature_11a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1026" class="size-medium wp-image-1026 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/rebel_t3i_feature_11a-300x138.jpg" alt="DSLR advantage: tons of lenses! This giant collection of lenses is by Canon." width="300" height="138" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/rebel_t3i_feature_11a-300x138.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/rebel_t3i_feature_11a.jpg 350w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1026" class="wp-caption-text"><strong>That’s a lot of lenses.</strong> (This is the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=Canon%20lenses%20in%20the%20EF%20lineup&linkCode=ur2&tag=diy07a-20&url=search-alias%3Delectronics">Canon EF lens family</a>.)</p></div></p>
<p><strong>Blurred backgrounds, hooray! </strong>Many product photographers want to achieve this blurred background look. To get it, you’ll need a lens designed for a <em>shallow depth of field</em>. Look for a lens with “85mm” or “100mm” in its name and you can create beautiful <em>bokeh</em> effects. (Tip for searchers: “bokeh” is just a fancy photographer word for “blurry background”).</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1020" style="width: 580px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/cupcake_charms_by_shayaaron.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1020" class="size-full wp-image-1020 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/cupcake_charms_by_shayaaron.jpg" alt="My favorite DSLR advantage: shallow depth of field shots." width="570" height="428" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/cupcake_charms_by_shayaaron.jpg 570w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/cupcake_charms_by_shayaaron-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 570px) 100vw, 570px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1020" class="wp-caption-text">A shallow depth of field puts close objects in focus while blurring the further ones. Adorable cupcake charms are by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/113057366/chocolate-cupcake-charm-the-new-cupcakes?ref=related-2">Shayaaron on Etsy</a>.</p></div></p>
<p>Point and shoot cameras really struggle to achieve this professional-looking effect. This is because a point and shoot camera is <strong>designed to put everything in focus</strong>. That’s the tradeoff – a “foolproof” camera assumes you want in-focus shots! Some point and shoot cameras offer macro mode, but macro mode doesn’t work well on objects larger than, say, your hand – not to mention subjects like children and decorated rooms.</p>
<p><b>With a shallow depth of field lens</b><strong>, your crafts can look sharp as that messy kitchen behind them becomes a pleasing blur!</strong> These 85mm lenses by Canon and Nikon are highly rated and good examples of the kind of lens you would need to achieve this flattering effect.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1022" style="width: 250px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00007GQLU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00007GQLU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1022" class=" wp-image-1022 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/canon_EF_85mm_f_18_usm_medium_telephoto_lens.jpg" alt="DSLR advantage: lens variety! This is a Canon EF 85mm medium telephoto lens." width="240" height="205" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/canon_EF_85mm_f_18_usm_medium_telephoto_lens.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/canon_EF_85mm_f_18_usm_medium_telephoto_lens-300x256.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1022" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00007GQLU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00007GQLU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM medium telephoto lens for Canon SLR cameras</a>. This lens is built for beautiful background blurs, earning it a full 5 star rating on Amazon.</p></div></p>
<p><div id="attachment_1024" style="width: 250px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_85mm_f_18f_nikkor_lens.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1024" class=" wp-image-1024 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_85mm_f_18f_nikkor_lens-300x289.jpg" alt="DSLR advantage: loads of lenses! This is a Nikon 85mm 18f NIKKOR lens." width="240" height="231" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_85mm_f_18f_nikkor_lens-300x289.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_85mm_f_18f_nikkor_lens-1024x987.jpg 1024w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_85mm_f_18f_nikkor_lens.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1024" class="wp-caption-text"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006TAP096/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B006TAP096&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Nikon 85mm f/1.8G AF-S NIKKOR Lens for Nikon SLR cameras</a>. Another 5-star lens, the Nikon 85mm creates beautiful bokeh (blurred backgrounds).</p></div></p>
<h2><b>More control</b></h2>
<p>If you’ve ever been frustrated by indoor lighting, poor lighting, moving subjects – you’ll love the options a DSLR offers.</p>
<p>Yes, you’ll have to practice a bit to master your DSLR, but the effort is well worth it. <strong>The typical DSLR offers aperture controls, shutter priority, full manual exposure, light metering, channel controls, and more.</strong> Don’t worry if you don’t even know what these terms mean yet – the web is packed with helpful guides to virtually every camera on the market.</p>
<p>When you’re ready to step up, a DSLR will feel like the training wheels have come off.</p>
<h2><b>Bigger sensor = Better image</b></h2>
<p>Camera manufacturers love to boast about megapixels, but <strong>sensor size </strong>also matters. DSLR sensors are <em>much larger</em> than those of point and shoot cameras. Larger sensors let more light in, reducing grain and increasing sharpness. Look closely at your point and shoot photos and you’ll probably find a blurry haze at the edges of objects – larger sensors get rid of (or reduce) that effect.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1028" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_sensor_comparison1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1028" class="size-full wp-image-1028" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_sensor_comparison1.jpg" alt="nikon_sensor_comparison" width="500" height="212" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_sensor_comparison1.jpg 500w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/nikon_sensor_comparison1-300x127.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1028" class="wp-caption-text">Size <em>does</em> matter. The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007VGGFZU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007VGGFZU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Nikon D3200</a> shows off its larger sensor next to a compact <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BUQ4D3S/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BUQ4D3S&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Nikon Coolpix S2700</a>.</p></div></p>
<p><em>Wait, what <strong>is</strong> the sensor, exactly?</em> In a DSLR camera, a mirror behind the lens directs light to the viewfinder (allowing you to see what the camera sees). When you press the shutter button, the mirror moves out of the way and light hits the <strong>sensor</strong> instead, recording the image. Sensors are what replaced the 35mm film frames of yesteryear. Like film, sensors are sensitive to light. Larger sensors are what make DSLRs what they are: better cameras.</p>
<p><strong>A quick terminology lesson for the interested:</strong> Most DSLRs have sensors described as “APS” or “1.5x” or “1.6x”. Some DSLRs are “full-frame”, meaning their sensors are the same size as 35mm film – and at that point you’re entering “serious landscape photographer for <em>National Geographic</em>” territory. All you really need to know is that DSLRs let more light in, and more light = better photos.</p>
<p><strong>More reading on sensors:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full-frame_digital_SLR">Wikipedia DSLR sensor article</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.digital-photography-tips.net/digital-camera-comparison-megapixels.html">Here’s why more megapixels doesn’t necessarily mean better pictures</a> (digital-photography-tips.net)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.vistek.ca/buyingguides/dslrs/">DSLR buying guide</a> has helpful explanations of many DSLR features</li>
</ul>
<h2>Resale value</h2>
<p>If you’re looking first at an “entry level” DSLR before investing in a higher quality DSLR later on, you’ll be happy to hear that you’ll probably be able to resell the camera body and/or lenses and apply the earnings to your next camera. <em>(But don’t get too wrapped up in the upgrade cycle – <a href="http://theonlinephotographer.typepad.com/the_online_photographer/2010/05/letter-to-george.html">here’s why</a>.) </em> Point and shoot cameras are so inexpensive and so ubiquitous they’re difficult to resell a few years after purchase.</p>
<p>Even more valuable are the <strong>lenses</strong>. At anywhere from $200-$2000+ each, lenses are a real investment. New lenses can become an addiction, too, since each one unlocks new photography possibilities! Fortunately, lenses generally stay compatible over the years, so your collection of lenses will stay “current” for a long time.</p>
<p><strong>Quick word of advice:</strong> you’ll need to pick a camera family and stay in it. Generally speaking, Canon lenses work with Canon cameras, Nikon lenses with Nikon cameras, and so on.</p>
<h2><b>Quick photos (no shutter lag)</b></h2>
<p>Many point and shoot cameras have a noticeable delay after you press the shutter button. If you’ve ever tried to capture a moving subject, you know the frustration of blurred photos and missed shots.</p>
<p>DSLRs are lightning fast – press and shoot! Most can take multiple pictures a <em>second</em>.</p>
<h2><b>Accessories for even more control</b></h2>
<p>DSLR cameras offer a huge variety of accessories such as<strong> remotes</strong>, <strong>off-camera flash</strong>, <strong>shoulder stabilizers</strong>, <strong>flashguns</strong>, and <strong>diffusers</strong>. Properly used, accessories like these can enhance lighting, soften shadows, control glares, and make your human models look better. <em>(Ever been to a wedding with a professional photographer? The photographer probably carried many of these accessories to get better control over the venue’s ambient lighting.)</em></p>
<p>This beautiful shot from Etsy seller <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PowderBlueBijoux?ref=l2-shopheader-name">PowderBlueBijoux</a> shows the quality of soft, controlled lighting you can achieve with the right camera accessories. Pale backgrounds, skin tones, and hair colors can be difficult to capture – they’re prone to “blowing out” in too-bright light. In this photo, the photographer diffused the lighting and captured all the subtle details of the flowers and the model’s delicate skin tones. If you’re working with human models, mastering your DSLR accessories is essential.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1038" style="width: 352px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/powder_blue_bijoux_fascinator.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1038" class=" wp-image-1038" src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/powder_blue_bijoux_fascinator.jpg" alt="powder_blue_bijoux_fascinator" width="342" height="363" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/powder_blue_bijoux_fascinator.jpg 570w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/powder_blue_bijoux_fascinator-282x300.jpg 282w" sizes="(max-width: 342px) 100vw, 342px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1038" class="wp-caption-text"><strong>Another DSLR-only trick:</strong> the shallower depth of field lens puts the model’s shoulders slightly out of focus, guiding the viewer’s eye up to the intended focal point. <strong><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/87090317/bridal-silk-flower-hair-clips-wedding?ref=related-1">Bridal Silk Flower Hair Clips by PowderBlueBijoux</a></strong></p></div></p>
<p>My favorite accessory is the remote. Without a remote, you’re left relying on the self-timer. It can be a real hassle to get everything into position before the self-timer runs out, and a remote lets you just rapid fire shots and pick the best one later.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_1029" style="width: 176px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BCEJ0E0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BCEJ0E0&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1029" class=" wp-image-1029 " src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/camera_remote_by_amazon_basics.jpg" alt="DSLR advantage over Point and Shoot camera: remote control!" width="166" height="264" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/camera_remote_by_amazon_basics.jpg 347w, /wp-content/uploads/2015/02/camera_remote_by_amazon_basics-189x300.jpg 189w" sizes="(max-width: 166px) 100vw, 166px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1029" class="wp-caption-text">Be your own model with an <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BCEJ0E0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BCEJ0E0&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">inexpensive camera remote</a>.</p></div></p>
<h2><b>Grow Your Photography Skills</b></h2>
<p>If you’ve enjoyed taking photos with your point and shoot and find yourself wanting more, a DSLR is the next logical step. There’s more to learn (and buy), but photography is a rewarding life-long hobby. If you think you’ll enjoy it, why not jump in with a DSLR?</p>
<h1>In Conclusion</h1>
<p>This particular list of DSLR advantages over point and shoot cameras was <strong>written for crafters and product photographers</strong>! There’s <strong>soooo much more</strong> you can do with a DSLR: landscape photography, high speed photography, long-exposure, portraits – they really are the “everything” camera.</p>
<p>Remember, too, that you don’t <em>have</em> to own just one camera. If you’ve already got a point and shoot camera, think of a DSLR as an <em>addition to the family</em>. For photographing your crafts for Etsy, a DSLR will almost certainly help you take more polished-looking photos and your compact point and shoot camera still fills that “go anywhere” role.</p>
<p><em>Some links in this article are Amazon Affiliate links. Read DIYCraftPhotography’s <a href="/affiliate-disclosure/">full disclosure here</a>.</em></p>
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<title>Top Selling Point and Shoot Cameras – Spring 2014</title>
<link>/top-selling-point-and-shoot-cameras-amazon-spring-2014/</link>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[M. Johnson]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 Feb 2014 14:00:28 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Cameras & Equipment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Point and Shoot Cameras]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">/?p=943</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Point and shoot cameras might be the “entry level” camera, but they pack a punch with fantastic image quality, shooting modes, image stabilization, compact go-anywhere size, and smart auto-adjusting settings. It’s impossible to go wrong with a point and shoot: they take the guesswork out of getting a great photo. DIYCraftPhotography recommends point and shoot cameras to...</p><p><a class="more-link" href="/top-selling-point-and-shoot-cameras-amazon-spring-2014/">Read More</a></p>]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/top_selling_point_and_shoot_cameras_20141.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1139" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/top_selling_point_and_shoot_cameras_20141.jpg" alt="A quick look at the top selling point and shoot cameras of spring 2014." width="441" height="364" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/top_selling_point_and_shoot_cameras_20141.jpg 441w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/02/top_selling_point_and_shoot_cameras_20141-300x247.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 441px) 100vw, 441px" /></a>Point and shoot cameras might be the “entry level” camera, but they pack a punch with <strong>fantastic image quality</strong>, <strong>shooting modes</strong>, <strong>image stabilization</strong>, <strong>compact go-anywhere size</strong>, and smart <strong>auto-adjusting settings. </strong>It’s impossible to go wrong with a point and shoot: they take the guesswork out of getting a great photo.</p>
<p>DIYCraftPhotography recommends point and shoot cameras to beginners and folks on a budget. Even if you do “graduate” to a DSLR someday, your point and shoot will always be a pocket-sized powerhouse that can go anywhere with you. If you already have a point and shoot but it’s a few years old, you might appreciate the advancements in image quality, shooting modes, and write speed seen in newer models.</p>
<p><em>Amazon.com links are affiliate links.</em></p>
<h1>Top Selling Point and Shoot Cameras on Amazon</h1>
<p>If you were thinking of a new point and shoot camera, it’s hard to go wrong with any of these best-selling point and shoots. They’re all highly reviewed (4+ stars) and, even more remarkably, nearly all of them cost about $60-80. Just three years ago I paid $220 for a Canon PowerShot – ouch! Prices have seriously come down!</p>
<p><strong>The top-selling list changes frequently! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/bestsellers/photo/330405011/?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Click here to see the current best-sellers</a>.</strong></p>
<p>Here’s the best-selling point and shoot cameras on Amazon.com as of March 2014:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5HE2UG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00B5HE2UG&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">CanonPowerShot A2500</a></strong> – Amazon’s top-selling point and shoot camera</li>
<li><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AWYN0BU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AWYN0BU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon PowerShot ELPH 130 IS</a></strong> – “ELPH” is the line used by DIYCraftPhotography & family, highly recommend!</li>
<li><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EFILPHA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00EFILPHA&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon PowerShot SX510 HS</a></strong></li>
<li><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Canon-PowerShot-A2500-Stabilized-Black/dp/B00B5HE1SY/ref=zg_bs_330405011_4">CanonPowerShot A2500</a></strong> (black version of #1)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AWYMXZY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AWYMXZY&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20"><strong>Canon PowerShot A1400</strong></a></li>
</ol>
<p>Canon dominates this list – their name is practically synonymous with the point and shoot category. Fortunately, their cameras are awesome. I’ve used PowerShots for nearly a decade and so does everyone else in my immediate family.</p>
<h2>#1 – Canon PowerShot A2500</h2>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_powershot_a2500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_powershot_a2500.jpg" alt="canon_powershot_a2500" width="280" height="204" /></a></p>
<p>The #1 and #4 best-selling point and shoot camera spot on Amazon is held by the PowerShot A2500. (It holds both positions thanks to its red and black color variations.) This amazing little camera offers 720p HD video, 16 megapixels, 5x optical zoom, 28mm lens, and “Smart Auto” to adjust camera settings on the fly. If you’re in need of a point and shoot camera upgrade, you can’t go wrong with A2500. We here at DIYCraftPhotography have been PowerShot users for nearly a decade and highly recommend the product line.</p>
<p>Best of all, the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5HE2UG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00B5HE2UG&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">PowerShot A2500 can be found priced well under $100 on Amazon.com</a></p>
<h2>#2 – Canon PowerShot ELPH 130 IS</h2>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AWYN0BU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AWYN0BU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-1136 alignnone" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_powershot_elph.jpg" alt="canon_powershot_elph" width="280" height="238" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_powershot_elph.jpg 400w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_powershot_elph-300x255.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px" /></a></p>
<p>The #2 best selling point and shoot camera on Amazon is the PowerShot ELPH 130 IS. It’s priced about 25-$30 higher, so what does the ELPH have that the #1 camera doesn’t? Macro mode is one big difference, and wifi upload capabilities and 8x optical zoom are the others. Like the A2500, the ELPH offers 720p HD video, 16 megapixels, a 28mm lens, and “Smart Auto” to adjust camera settings on the fly.</p>
<p><strong>PS:</strong> I want to take a minute to personally recommend the ELPH line. I’ve used three ELPH cameras, and I get a new one every couple years to keep up with the new features. My ELPH fires up fast, writes shots quickly, is rugged enough to survive every ride at Disney World, and the photos it takes are the ones you see throughout this site! I think the extra $25 would be well spent on the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AWYN0BU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AWYN0BU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">ELPH 130 IS</a> over the A2500.</p>
<h2>#3 – Canon PowerShot SX510 HS</h2>
<div>
<dl id="attachment_1134">
<dt><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EFILPHA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00EFILPHA&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_powershot_sx510.jpg" alt="canon_powershot_sx510" width="240" height="240" /></a></dt>
</dl>
</div>
<p>The third best-selling point and shoot is priced about $120 more than the #1 seller. Yowza! What does that extra $120 get you? A whole bunch of stuff, as it turns out: the SX510 HS offers a <strong>bigger and better sensor, larger LCD screen, full 1080p video, 32 “scene modes” and powerful 30x optical zoom.</strong> <strong>Built-in wifi</strong> makes transferring photos to your smartphone or computer quick and painless. Reviewers say this camera takes<strong> great low light photos</strong> and rave about its lightweight, compact body.</p>
<p>If you have a bit of extra room in your budget, the extra $100 will be well-spent on the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EFILPHA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00EFILPHA&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">PowerShot SX510</a>.</p>
<h2>#4 – Canon PowerShot A2500 HS</h2>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_powershot_a2500_grey1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-1138 alignnone" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_powershot_a2500_grey1.jpg" alt="canon_powershot_a2500_grey" width="240" height="175" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_powershot_a2500_grey1.jpg 400w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_powershot_a2500_grey1-300x219.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px" /></a></p>
<p>It’s <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5HE1SY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00B5HE1SY&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">the grey version</a> of the #1 best-selling camera.</p>
<h2>#5 – Canon PowerShot A1400</h2>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AWYMXZY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AWYMXZY&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-946 alignnone" src="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_a1400_best_selling_point_and_shoot.jpg" alt="canon_a1400_best_selling_point_and_shoot" width="246" height="181" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_a1400_best_selling_point_and_shoot.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2014/02/canon_a1400_best_selling_point_and_shoot-300x220.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 246px) 100vw, 246px" /></a></p>
<p>Finally, our #5 camera is the Canon PowerShot A1400. This camera was the #1 best-seller for a while until it was displaced by the A2500. Features include 16 megapixels, 5x optical zoom, and 720p HD video, and “Smart Auto” to adjust camera settings on the fly. This camera is super easy to learn,<strong> runs on AA alkaline batteries</strong>, and includes features to stabilize shots, and a variety of “scene modes” to take the guesswork out of shooting in low light. Reviewers say it shoots fast and shots look great.</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AWYMXZY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AWYMXZY&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20" rel="nofollow">Canon PowerShot A1400</a>‘s claim to fame used to be that Amazon sold it for under<strong> $70</strong>. (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AWYMXZY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AWYMXZY&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Click to see its current Amazon.com price</a>), but the PowerShot A2500 can usually be found for even less than that.</p>
<p> </p>
<h1>Resources & Links</h1>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2351841,00.asp">How to Buy a Point and Shoot Camera</a> by PCmag.com is an excellent guide to buying a point and shoot camera</li>
<li><a href="http://lifehacker.com/5822098/how-to-choose-the-perfect-camera-for-your-needs">How to Choose the Perfect Camera for Your Needs</a> by Lifehacker is great if you’re still debating whether you want a point and shoot or a DSLR</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Some links in this article are Amazon Affiliate links. Read DIYCraftPhotography’s <a href="/affiliate-disclosure/">full disclosure here</a>.</em></p>
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<title>The DIYer’s Essential Photography Equipment Checklist</title>
<link>/diy-craft-photography-equipment-checklist/</link>
<comments>/diy-craft-photography-equipment-checklist/#comments</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[M. Johnson]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Fri, 20 Sep 2013 07:00:22 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Cameras & Equipment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[equipment]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">/?p=171</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Do you have a great handmade product you’re ready to share with the world? Awesome! Putting photos of your handmade crafts online has never been simpler, more affordable, or easier to do it yourself. This photography equipment checklist is for the ultimate beginner, someone who is just starting to consider the possibilities of selling on...</p><p><a class="more-link" href="/diy-craft-photography-equipment-checklist/">Read More</a></p>]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><div id="attachment_737" style="width: 305px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/essentialchecklist.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-737" class="size-full wp-image-737" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/essentialchecklist.jpg" alt="beginner photographer's essential equipment checklist" width="295" height="601" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/essentialchecklist.jpg 295w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/09/essentialchecklist-147x300.jpg 147w" sizes="(max-width: 295px) 100vw, 295px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-737" class="wp-caption-text">Click to share me on Pinterest!</p></div></p>
<p>Do you have a great handmade product you’re ready to share with the world? Awesome!</p>
<p>Putting photos of your handmade crafts online has never been simpler, more affordable, or easier to do it yourself. This photography equipment checklist is for <strong>the ultimate beginner</strong>, someone who is just starting to consider the possibilities of selling on Etsy or blogging tasty recipes.</p>
<p>I didn’t discover or think about some of these things until <em>years</em> after I started taking photos of my plushies. I cringe when I think of the early missteps I made when it came to photographing my products trying to get by without some of these must-haves.</p>
<p>Read on and hit the ground running!</p>
<h1>Must-Have Photography Equipment Checklist</h1>
<p>It’s easy to get into debates over what’s a must-have and what’s a nice-to-have, but we’re going to keep it super simple and limit this list to just <strong>four essentials</strong>.</p>
<h2>1. Handmade Crafts or Supplies!</h2>
<p>You’ve got to have something to photograph! <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="🙂" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></p>
<p>Jewelry, plushies, food, sewing patterns – when it comes to what to make, sell, or blog about, you are limited only by your own imagination!</p>
<h2>2. Digital Camera</h2>
<p>You might already have a digital camera, and if it’s from the last 4-5 years it’s probably good enough for taking pics of your crafts. If you don’t, there’s good news: digital cameras are better and less expensive than ever. Great “point and shoot” cameras can be found for as little as $85 (USD). (Point and shoot cameras are usually pocket-sized with a retractable lens – see image below for an example.)</p>
<p>Nearly all of the photos on DIYCraftPhotography were taken using a 2-year-old <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AWYN0BU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AWYN0BU&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">Canon PowerShot</a><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="jeliogattfjawsmzfzod" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=diy07a-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00AWYN0BU" alt="" width="1" height="1" border="0" /> ELPH 300 HS (which is actually my second Canon PowerShot in ~6 years). I highly recommend the <a href="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=canon%20powershot&linkCode=ur2&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Acanon%20powershot&sprefix=canon%20powe%2Caps&tag=diy07a-20&url=search-alias%3Daps">Canon PowerShot series</a> for image quality, ease of use, fast power-on time, and memory type (SD cards!).</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/canon_powershot.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-500" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/canon_powershot.jpg" alt="canon_powershot" width="410" height="273" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/canon_powershot.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/10/canon_powershot-300x199.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 410px) 100vw, 410px" /></a></p>
<p>If you’re shooting outdoors or in otherwise “ideal” lighting, you may be surprised to find that <em>your smartphone</em> is actually pretty good at taking photos of your crafts! This plush fish photo was taken with an iPhone 4S and required no more touch-up than if it had been taking using the Canon.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/diy_craft_photo_taken_with_iphone.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-306 aligncenter" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/diy_craft_photo_taken_with_iphone.jpg" alt="diy_craft_photo_taken_with_iphone" width="399" height="299" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/diy_craft_photo_taken_with_iphone.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/09/diy_craft_photo_taken_with_iphone-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 399px) 100vw, 399px" /></a></p>
<h2><strong>2. Background(s)</strong></h2>
<p>What kind of world do your handmade crafts live in?</p>
<p>Are they at home in the outdoors, or are they more the indoorsy type? Do you prefer a solid white background, a black background, or something a little more interesting?</p>
<p>Whatever background you choose, be consistent across all your shop products for a cohesive, “branded” look in your shop. Don’t forget about props and “action shots” where you show your product in use or on a model!</p>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/key_bark.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-496" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/key_bark.jpg" alt="key_bark" width="512" height="341" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/key_bark.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/10/key_bark-300x199.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></a></p>
<p>Want more photo background inspiration?</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="/how-to-take-white-background-photos/">How to Take Great White Background Photos</a></li>
<li><a href="/6-alternatives-to-white-backgrounds/">6 Alternatives to White Backgrounds</a></li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>3. Photo Editing Software</strong></h2>
<p>It’s virtually impossible to skip the step of editing your photos in some way, even if it’s just to resize or crop your photos. The good news is all the basic photo editing tools you’ll need are available for free in your web browser, thanks to in-browser apps like Pixlr and PicMonkey.</p>
<p><a href="/5-best-apps-free-photo-editing-online-2013/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-307 aligncenter" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/free_online_image_editors.jpg" alt="free_online_image_editors" width="210" height="96" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Check out our reviews of the <a href="/5-best-apps-free-photo-editing-online-2013/">Top 5 Favorite Free Online editors</a>.</p>
<h1>Nice-to-Have Photography Equipment Checklist</h1>
<h2><strong>5. Homemade Tinfoil Bounce Card</strong></h2>
<p>A bounce card is a white or reflective surface used to “bounce” light back onto a subject. Bounce lighting fills in shadows and brightens “the dark side” of a subject.</p>
<p><a href="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/bounce_lighting_examples.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-542" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/bounce_lighting_examples.jpg" alt="bounce_lighting_examples" width="512" height="170" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/bounce_lighting_examples.jpg 512w, /wp-content/uploads/2013/10/bounce_lighting_examples-300x99.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></a></p>
<p>Make your own <a href="/the-magic-of-bounce-lighting/ ">inexpensive tinfoil bounce card</a>.</p>
<h2><strong>6. Tripod</strong></h2>
<p>Sure, you can get by without one, but a simple $25 tripod can make a <em>huge</em> difference in the quality of your photos. Here’s the one I use:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000V7AF8E/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000V7AF8E&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-546 aligncenter" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/camera_tripod.jpg" alt="camera_tripod" width="161" height="300" /></a></p>
<p>If you’re shooting indoors, a tripod will reduce subtle blurring on details. If you’re hoping to take multiple very similar looking shots, a tripod will let you set up a scene and swap your products in and out, one after another. If your crafts are very small, you may get a lot of use out of a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002J2TLC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0002J2TLC&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20">small tabletop tripod</a>.</p>
<h2><strong>7. Two (or More) White Foam Core Boards<br />
</strong></h2>
<p>Grab a couple boards of white foam core from your local craft store and you’ve got a cheap, go-anywhere photo backdrop for your small crafts. Blur the seam in Photoshop and you’re good to go!</p>
<h2><strong>8. An Adventurous Spirit!<br />
</strong></h2>
<p>Hang in there – no one takes amazing photos the first time around. Take tons of shots and experiment with different camera angles, lighting setups, and product poses.</p>
<p>Keep trying new things with your photos and before you know it, your shop or craft blog will have its own visual brand.</p>
<h1>Got a bit of cash?</h1>
<p>These last two items are for DIY’ers willing to spend a bit of cash for a more professional experience.</p>
<h2><strong>9. Table Top Photo Studio</strong></h2>
<p>If your craft products are small and neat, you may like the all-in-one simplicity of a <strong>table top photo studio</strong>. Table top photo studios usually include a white light tent, a few background colors, a couple lamps, and sometimes a small tripod for your camera. The light tent is great at minimizing shadows, reflections, and other interference from the environment you’re working in.</p>
<p>Check out our <a href="/table-top-photo-studio-kit-reviews/">Table Top Photo Studio Reviews & Comparison Chart</a> for help choosing a table top photo studio.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A6G2LM8/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00A6G2LM8&linkCode=as2&tag=diy07a-20"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/limostudio_photography_studio_12_30_agg941-300x300.jpg" alt="limostudio_photography_studio_12_30_agg941" width="180" height="180" /></a></p>
<h2><strong>10. Adobe Photoshop </strong></h2>
<p>The free tools we plugged above are great, but for some nothing but Photoshop will do.</p>
<p>Photoshop is the long-time industry standard for photo editing and retouching. Some folks love Photoshop’s enormous array of tools and the opportunity to learn useful skills in this popular image editing package.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<dl id="attachment_503">
<dt><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/64329241/ps5-pillow"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ps_pillow-300x300.jpg" alt="Ps5 Pillow by Craftsquatch " width="300" height="300" /></a></dt>
<dd>Adorable Ps5 Pillow by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Craftsquatch?ref=l2-shopheader-name">Craftsquatch</a></dd>
</dl>
</div>
<p>Don’t be intimidated by Photoshop’s reputation or toolset. Photoshop is easier than ever to get into thanks to the tons and tons of tutorials on the web nowadays.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="/photoshop-tutorial-remove-the-orange-tint-from-photos/">Remove an Orange Tint from Photos with Photoshop</a></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Some links in this article are Amazon Affiliate links. Read DIYCraftPhotography’s <a href="/affiliate-disclosure/">full disclosure here</a>.</em></p>
<h1>Quick List!</h1>
<p>[ ] Finished product or supplies<br />
[ ] Digital Camera<br />
[ ] Backgrounds<br />
[ ] Free Online Photo Editing Software<br />
[ ] Tinfoil Bounce Card<br />
[ ] Tripod<br />
[ ] 2 Foam Core Boards<br />
[ ] Tabletop Photo Studio<br />
[ ] Photoshop</p>
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