Gumtree
Introduction
Gone are the days of camera film and dark rooms. These days almost all photography is done using digital cameras with the help of digital photography programs and apps – though that is not to say that the choices are any more straightforward. There are more Canon cameras on the market today than ever, from basic point-and-shoot cameras to complex DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) models with interchangeable lenses and powerful zoom capabilities. It might seem that choosing a new one can be daunting but armed with the right information it is easier than you think to find the type of camera that’s right for you.
Canon Camera Types
The key differentiating factor between cameras on the market today is whether they are ‘point-and-shoot’ models or sophisticated DSLRs with all the trimmings. Thinking about how you want to use your camera is the first and main consideration when deciding which to choose.
Canon DSLR Cameras
If you are a professional photographer or your job relies on your use of a camera, you will want to invest in a model that is capable of delivering high quality shots in any potential setting, so likely you will need some model of Canon DSLR. Similarly, if you are a keen amateur photographer who is interested in taking high-quality photos, experimenting with photographic effects, or wanting to manually adjust aperture, shutter speed, or other settings, you will be best-served considering a more sophisticated model like a DSLR as well. Of course, if you want the ability to use a variety of high-quality, powerful lenses, a DSLR is the way to go.
Canon Point-and-Shoot Cameras
Alternatively you may be looking to buy a camera simply for everyday use, for instance to capture photos of your children, holidays, or family events. In this case a Canon point-and-shoot camera could be the perfect option. Maybe you want a less-bulky (yet still powerful) camera that you can slide in your pocket or purse on the go. Point-and-shoots fit that bill perfectly. Despite their simplicity, Canon point-and-shoot cameras boast powerful zoom features to capture objects at various distances, excellent autofocus capabilities for trouble-free focusing and added features such as video recording to ensure you never miss those magic moments. When choosing your Canon camera, be sure that it is practical for your needs. Consider the size and weight of the camera, as well as how accessible it is – how easily you can pull it out and snap off a shot to capture a fleeting moment in a hurry. One item that is easy to overlook is making sure the menus and functions are intuitive and easy for you to use. There is no point in having extensive functionality if you don’t know how to use it – or where to find it.
Canon Features
There are several key camera features it is good to understand when you are comparing various Canon camera models:
Camera Features | |
| Camera Resolution | The resolution of digital cameras is usually referred to in terms of megapixels. When digital cameras were first introduced, the number of megapixels was an important factor in the quality of an image. Nowadays, however, all digital cameras possess enough megapixels to deliver images of an acceptable quality. |
| Camera Lenses | Aperture and focal length are the two main specifications to consider when evaluating a camera lens. The aperture describes the size of the hole through which light enters the camera. Wider apertures let in more light and can provide more clarity to the image surrounding the main subject. Lenses with wide apertures are known as ‘fast lenses’ while those with narrow apertures are known as ‘slow lenses’. A camera’s spec will list the aperture at its longest and shortest focal lengths. If you are a keen photographer or a professional, you are likely to want to change your lenses to match the subject matter and conditions. |
| Camera sensor size/type | Generally speaking, the larger the sensor a camera has, the better the quality of photographs it can produce. A larger sensor usually means a larger camera. |
| Light sensitivity | Light sensitivity is referred to as a camera’s ISO sensitivity. If a camera has a high ISO rating, it is usually better at taking photographs in conditions where there is less light. |
| Viewfinder/screen | Traditional film cameras relied on a viewfinder that you would physically put to the eye to see the composition of your photo. With the introduction of LCD display screens, many lower-end cameras have done away with viewfinders, although they still can be found on many more sophisticated models. |
| Image stabilisation | Image stabilisation (IS) helps to give your images clarity by eliminating camera ‘shake’. Lower-end models will often use electronic IS, while professional or more advanced amateur models will use in-camera sensor shift or in-lens optical. |
| Battery life/type | Lower-end cameras may use AA batteries, but most models will use lithium ion rechargeable battery packs. These battery packs usually are designed to fit a particular model. |
| Burst/continuous shooting rate | Some cameras offer a burst of continuous shooting, which helps to capture the best possible shot of a fleeting moment in time. Continuous shooting capability is measured in frames per second (FPS). |
| Video recording | Many of today’s cameras offer the ability to record video, eliminating the need for a separate video camera. To capture moments and events in decent quality, look for a 1080/30p spec. If you desire better quality video, there are cameras that offer higher specifications. |
| GPS and dating | A built-in GPS receiver will automatically record where and when a photo was taken. This may be important if you use your camera in your work or if you want to help organise your photographs. |
| WiFi | Cameras that have WiFi technology can wirelessly transfer photos and videos from your camera to a computer, mobile device, or cloud service. Many cameras now boast this feature, though some lower-end models still rely on a physical cable to perform this function. |
Canon Camera Models
Canon is one of the world’s leading camera manufacturers, and they offer a large variety of models to meet every need and budget. At the lower end of the market, the Canon IXUS 160 is typical of an entry-level model. It is compact, slim, easy to use, and comes with a 2.7 inch LCD screen and 8x optical zoom. Moving up the scale, the Canon PowerShot G7X boasts a large 1.0-type sensor, WiFi technology, and full HD recording for high-quality video.
There is a wide range of Canon DSLR camera models available, such as the Canon EOS 70D that has continuous shooting functionality, WiFi, ISO sensitivity to 25,600 and a touchscreen monitor.
For professional use consider something like the Canon EOS-1D X DSLR, which shoots 14 frames per second (FPS) with an ISO rating of 50-51,200, 61-point AF, and enhanced HD video. All DSLR cameras can accommodate different lenses, opening up a wide spectrum of accessories for your Canon camera.
Should You Buy a New or Used Camera?
The decision whether to buy a new or used Canon camera rests on your needs and budget. Buying a used model can save money and allow you to buy a camera with higher specifications than you might have been able to afford if you bought it new. The downside, of course, is that you may not know how well the camera has been looked after. Buying a new camera means you get one fresh from the manufacturer, but that “new camera feeling” comes at a higher price. Whether you choose new or used, be sure to check the specifications of your Canon camera carefully to ensure it meets your needs. For newer models you can find the information on the manufacturer’s website, while with an older model you may want to verify if the previous owner saved the box and instruction manual.
Looking After Your Canon Camera
Taking photographs is all about precision, so it is important to make sure your Canon camera is well maintained. Clean the LCD and viewfinder regularly so that your point of vision is clear and no dust particles creep into the main camera body. Cleaning the lens is particularly important – but it must be done with care. If your camera uses a detachable lens, remove the lens before cleaning so you can clean both ends. Otherwise simply clean the lens in situ. A microfibre cleaning cloth is ideal for this, but do make sure you blow away any small particles first to avoid the possibility of scratching the lens. If you have been to the beach, always wipe your camera with a slightly damp cloth to minimise the corrosive effects of salt.
How to Buy a Canon Camera on Gumtree
With a wide selection of both used and new Canon cameras, Gumtree makes the perfect starting point to do your research and save money when you buy. If you are still deciding which model or type of camera to buy, you can make a broad search for “cameras” to view the full range currently available. Clicking on this link will take you directly to the results page: http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-cameras/k0.
If you are looking for a specific camera model or type, you can find it easily by typing in a more specific search term such as “point and shoot cameras” or “Canon EOS 6d”. You can also hone your search to a particular area by selecting your preferred location in the location box – you can choose a state, a broad geographical area, a city, or even a particular location within a city, such as ‘Brisbane South West, QLD’ (http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-brisbane-south-west/canon+camera/k0l3005862).
Consider your needs realistically, do your research thoroughly, make your choice carefully and you are certain to find the perfect camera to create the images you want.
