Please Don’t Buy an Interchangeable Lens Camera if You Don’t Need One

Last Updated on 08/29/2014 by Julius Motal

At least every other day, we receive an email or message of some sort asking about what camera someone should purchase. In fact, I’ve been dealing with emails like this for years via the Phoblographer and during my time at B&H Photo. Usually, it’s from someone who knows nothing about photography. A former colleague of mine recently messaged me and said something along the lines of “Hey, the wife and I are thinking about buying a DSLR. I heard the D800 is good. What should I get?”

Granted, he and his wife know nothing about photography and when I tried to tell him that they don’t need a DSLR or anything as high level as a D800, he thought that I was completely insane. Then I offered alternatives from Fujifilm and Sony in the high end point and shoot world. He retorted with “Okay, just tell me this then: Canon or Nikon?”

Again, I told him that a DSLR is over his head, unless he really wants to learn how to use one to its potential. In truth, it’s also serious overkill.

“Why do you want a DSLR?” I said.

“Better pictures.” He said.

“Yes, but you’ll only get better pictures if you really want to dedicate yourself to learning how to use one. And with a kid on the way you won’t have the time.” I returned.

The point though is that not everyone needs a DSLR or a mirrorless camera. To be incredibly honest, most of the work that I do for the site or the paid photography gigs that I do doesn’t require super high end cameras. But to be fair, I have great lighting knowledge.

Still though, I seriously think that everyone needs to stop just reaching for DSLRs and mirrorless cameras and instead take a strong look at what the high end point and shoot market is offering. There are loads and loads of great options.

And of course, no one is making a bad camera.