Read this BEFORE you consider photography!

When it comes to digital photography, it is difficult to figure out which camera is best for your needs. So many newbies think that it is all about megapixels but any well-seasoned photographer will tell you that this is not the case. You have to research which lenses are best suited to your needs. You have to look at focal length range, zoom ratio, format, image stabilization, etc.

When purchasing a digital camera, you have to take several things into consideration. These include: budget, what type, of photos you will be taking (general, nature, portraits, etc.).

Some new photographers are shell shocked by the cost of these cameras. Some cameras are only a few hundred while some can cost over $10,000.00!! DSLR cameras in general cost around $1,000+. However, the real cost comes with the lens. Lenses can range up to $8,000.00 or more alone. Most cameras come with a standard lens. However, you will find out very quickly that these are nearly useless unless you are only taking standard run-of-the-mill pictures. They only have basic functionality and it is the equivalent of trying to paint a  Picasso with a wet toothbrush..it just doesn't work! You will need other equipment as well (backdrops, lighting, tripod, etc.)

When you are doing photography, the most important thing is what you buy. You do not want to purchase a cheap version of anything. Even though it seems more cost-effective in the short-
run but it will cost you in the long run. For instance, I purchased a cheap tripod for my husband when he first started doing photography. I thought they were all the same. However, the tripod fell apart completely within the first few months of use. Keep in mind that he did this on the side at first so he
probably only used it around 5 times or so!

Some photographers are better at some types of photography than others. While you may be a great portrait photographer, you may not be that good at doing live events like weddings and graduations. Another thing photographers have to take into consideration is what brand of camera they want. Some people like Canon while others are die-hard Nikon fans.

Some cool entry-level cameras for Photographers are the Nikon D3100 and the D5100. If you want to go a little higher from the beginning you should go with the D90. Canon is cool but I am more familiar with Nikon cameras and I want to give you an honest opinion on the brand that I am more familiar with. Also the Canon's body does not feel as robust as the Nikon body and it is not as easy to grip because it doesn't really have a texture to it. Also, two lenses you want to make sure that you get are the 50 mm and the 35 mm because these are good all-around lenses and they are very good for lots of photos.

As a photographer, you will develop your own sense of style. One thing is for certain: there is no one-size-fits-all. You have to find out what works for you. When you decide to purchase your equipment, be sure to compare and contrast. The most important factor in your decision should never be cost if you want to become a professional. Buying the cheaper item will hurt you in the long run so be sure to go for quality.It is better to save up for one piece of equipment rather than get a bunch of cheap substandard lousy equipment.

Beats by Dre

For those of you who are on the fence about checking out the Beats by Dre headphones, don't be! Before I bought these I was skeptical and I didn't know whether or not the quality of these headphones would command the high price tag. When I got them, I thought they sounded pretty good but I still wasn't completely convinced until my husband downloaded a cool equalizer in the Android Marketplace. The headphones need adequate software in order to reach their full capabilities. When I heard these with the software I was completely blown away! I have never heard such rich sound and I truly became a believer at that point.

Months later I was at Best Buy with my family and I compared the sound quality of the Beats By Dre headphones against Bose and all of the others. The Beats Studio (which is the one that I have) blew all of those other headphones out of the water..yes EVEN BOSE! My sister-in-law and her husband tested out the Beats Studio and they were so impressed that they both bought them along with Ipods. While the earbuds and solos are okay, I suggest that you at least get the Studio.

Needless to say, these headphones are absolutely awesome! Don't hesitate. if you want, you can do what I did and compare these at the store and you will see that it is not just a name. these are the real deal folks..I'm listening to them right now!