The DSLR: A Very Short Summary

DSLR = Digital Single Lens Reflex. These are digital cameras that allow the photographer to look directly through the lens, thereby seeing what the sensor will see. Most (all?) meter through the lens as well and have through-the-lens (TTL) flash control.

For practical and psychological reasons, a DSLR is the best choice for a new photographer. Practically, you have a platform to learn about exposure, composition and techniques that will provide you instant and high-quality feedback for a reasonable price. Psychologically speaking, a DSLR makes one feel like a photographer. While you can get nearly the same results as a DSLR from a point-and-shoot these days, it is definitely not the same feeling in the hand, nor will others perception of your craft be the same. A film SLR is a great choice for all of the same reasons minus the instant feedback.

So, there are dozens of DSLR's available from a number of manufacturers. The most popular are
Nikon and Canon, with Olympus, Pentax, Sony and others also offering their own lineup of models. There are also plenty of websites devoted to minute examination of specifications, lens sharpness performance tests, etc. Honestly, it really doesn't matter that much which you choose - the ultimate quality of your images comes from your imagination and skill, not the equipment.

Having said that, keep in mind a couple of key points and you'll never go wrong:
1. Invest in glass, not electronics
2. You'll often find better deals on the more popular brands

When I say invest in glass, not electronics I mean that if you are restricted by budget, you should buy better quality lenses - not higher end camera bodies. Why? Obsolescence. New DSLR camera bodies come out at an astonishingly fast rate. New lenses? Not so much. New lenses aren't needed because the old ones don't go obsolete. They're usually backwards- and forwards-compatible. Also, the fastest path to more creativity is through lenses, not electronic gimmickry.

The more popular brands, like Canon and Nikon have the greatest variety of equipment, both new and used. Nikon hasn't changed their F-mount configuration in what seems like forever, which allows a modular system where literally hundreds of lenses fit their different camera bodies (both digital and film). Does this mean that it's good reason to stay away from the other brands? It's possible that good deals may be had on the less popular equipment. The only catch may be that if you're a gear hound or plan to expand your system it may be more difficult/costly in the long run.

So, yes, a sub-$1000 DSLR with the kit lens will definitely get you out there shooting! Remember, the quality of the images you make are up to you, not the camera.

The Equipment Excuse

Though there are websites, magazines and endless forums dedicated to arguing about which camera is better, there is one thing that I truly believe:

When it comes to making a great image, the equipment actually matters very little. No, really. The camera is just a tool.

The composition of the image is what's key. The camera's ability to capture it in the sharpest manner using the highest number of megapixels is useless if it's a garbage composition.

The ability to create a great image is in the mind of the photographer - not the abilities of the camera. The camera is simply a tool. A good analogy here would be to consider this: Eric Clapton plays a guitar (a Fender Stratocaster, usually) worth thousands of dollars. If a random person is handed this guitar they won't automatically sound like Eric Clapton. However, if you gave Eric Clapton a cheapie guitar, chances are, he'd still sound like Eric Clapton. There is no difference with cameras and photographers. Also, just like guitars, an older camera with a little distortion is often a good thing (just ask a Holga photographer)!

So, why do uber-expensive cameras exist - and why do the pro's use them? They are much more durable than consumer-grade cameras and they are often faster to use. The image quality, especially in this latest generation of cameras, is often the same. Professionals use their equipment constantly and it takes a beating. Consumers do not and consequently can do without the ruggedness, saving a bit of money in the process.

The point is, get out and shoot what you have. Don't make excuses for what you are shooting - find a way to creatively work around your limitations.

Oh, and try not to wince every time you make a great image and a viewers' first response is "wow, you have a great camera!" Truth is, you have a great imagination. The camera is just a tool.

Ken Rockwell has a treatise on the above subject as well... here.

What is This All About? Why Bother?

Okay, why?

Well, the best that I can tell you there is that if you're here, you probably already know the answer to the last two questions. What makes a great nature photo? Well, there is an endless debate as to what makes art - and that really isn't a question that can ever be answered. Art, as well as photography is subjective and will always mean different things to different people. What most people equate greatness or quality with is the feelings that it evokes when they view or experience the work. The common thought is that the more people that believe that an individual piece is 'great' must mean that this is a superior piece of work. I disagree - keep art/photography/etc. individual. If you don't like it, but others do - fine. Likewise the opposite.

When I began making images publicly viewable. I'll admit that I initially did so seeking recognition. I have received a little bit of recognition, like having a photo published in a travel guide, getting paid for shooting, etc. which was fun for a non-pro that just shoots in his spare time. These experiences all taught me one big lesson, though:

Make images for yourself, not for anyone else.

It's great when others like your work, but you'll always be your own greatest critic, so concentrate on striving for your own satisfaction and all else will fall into place. In taking on a professional shoot for the first time, I learned that being a professional photographer would be a great way for me to ruin an excellent hobby and creative outlet. Someday I may sell artwork on the web - but if no one buys it I won't mind because I made these images for me.

So, again, why bother? Because photography is an easily accessible creative outlet. Those of us born with the innate desire to be creative will always find a way to 'get our fix' and nature photography is a fun, healthy, excellent way of doing so. And so is blogging.

Welcome to Imageinature!

Hello, my name is Duncan McPhee. I'm a freelance consultant located in California's San Francisco Bay area and my passion is photography. Though I've dabbled a bit with portraits and studio work, my primary area of interest is nature photography. Nature photography is a bit like Othello - it takes a minute to learn and a lifetime to master. But the fun is in trying and I encourage everyone to give it a try. In the digital era, photography is - literally - for everyone.

Simply put, there are great subjects to photograph everywhere and great images can be made with nearly any camera. You needn't have the latest and greatest digital camera to take great pictures. Film cameras work incredibly well for nature work and can be had for fractions of their original cost on eBay. In fact, most professional landscape photographers will forever use film cameras (usually in medium format or large format) for their great image quality.

Simply put, Imageinature is my attempt to share the tips, tricks and ideas that I've picked up along the way. Enjoy.