If you're interested in photography, a camera bundled with all the must-have accessories might be perfect for you.
As a hobby, photography can be expensive, so it’s important to research and budget your purchases to avoid paying an unnecessary amount for your camera gear.
Camera bundles are a great way to save money, but you have to know what to look for to get the most out of your purchases.
Figure Out What You Need
Before you go on a photography-related shopping spree, you’ll need to do some research. Break out a notepad and paper and start listing everything you need.
Camera bundle deals usually include the camera and lenses, but can also include a camera bag, memory cards, tripods and batteries.
Your photography kit will depend on the kind of photographer you plan to be. Consider how you plan to use your kit: will you be shooting portraits, landscapes or both? Studio photography will require different equipment to travel photography.
You won’t need to buy everything on your list straight away. But figuring out what you need and what you can go without is a great way of saving money in the long run.
A camera bundle deal is only worth it if you plan to use every piece, so look for camera bundles suited to your purposes. These are some of the things you might need to get you started:
DSLR Camera
The most important thing to consider when deciding on a camera bundle is the camera. Pay close attention to the specifications and look for cameras that will suit your purposes.
Buying a DSLR camera usually only means buying the camera body. But many camera packages come with a kit lens, which brings us to our next point...
Lenses
You will need different kinds of lenses for different purposes, so figure out which ones you will get the most use out of.
Your standard camera bundle generally comes with an 18-55mm lens, which is perfect if you're just starting out. But you could find it limiting as you hone your skills and develop a particular field of interest (such as landscapes).
Over time, you may want to add a macro or wide-angle lens for specific purposes. However, for your first camera, you may find the standard lens more than meets your needs.
Tripods
Tripods will give your camera stability so you can capture crisp photos no matter your circumstances. They are especially important for low-light photography.
Lighting
Studio lighting and flash guns are great additions for portrait photography but they aren’t immediately necessary unless you're certain you'll be dedicating your skills to studio photography.
Spare Batteries
If you’re planning on travelling with your camera, and you don’t want to miss a moment, spare camera batteries are a valuable addition.
Memory Cards & Hard Drives
Memory cards and hard drives are often forgotten extras. Make sure that the memory cards and hard drives are large enough for your purposes.
Camera Bags & Cases
Quality camera bags are important so that you can ensure your camera is safe and protected when you're not using it. Even if you don’t plan to travel with your camera, a good case is a must-have.
Try Before You Buy
Before you shell out for a camera bundle, it's a good idea to try it out. Borrow cameras from friends and family and ask enthusiast you know for their recommendations.
Read reviews online, and then go in-store and try out the ones you are considering. Weigh it up in your hand to make sure it sits comfortably. You might even be able to rent the model you want for a day and see if it’s right for you.
Invest in the Future
DSLRs can last a long time. But it’s important to note that the technology is constantly improving. Buying an older model might seem like a smart move financially but it might mean it’ll become obsolete sooner.
Look for camera bundles that include the latest cameras and equipment. These might be a little more expensive, but the value is hard to beat.
If you are self-taught it might be easier to choose a camera that will be easier to learn on, such as an entry-level camera.
If you are a little more experienced or you are planning to attend a photography course, investing in a professional-level camera might be of more value to you.
Either way, camera bundles are often a good way to get all the equipment you need at a better rate than if you were buying each item individually.
Get Insurance
You don’t want to invest so much money into your hobby only to have your camera stolen or broken. Always consider getting your camera gear insured separately, or included on your home or travel insurance.
Check out the Camera House blog or head in-store for more handy tips and expert advice. For the best camera equipment and bundles, check out our full range of cameras and accessories online at Camera House today.
