One of the most common questions that I am asked is – “I would like to get more serious with my photography, what equipment should I buy to get better pictures?”
Well it is not an easy question to answer as a lot depends on the type of photography that you want to do. I will address this post from the nature / wildlife photographers area.
Camera Equipment
If you want to get serious a DSLR or a mirrorless camera. With this type of camera it will allow you to use different lenses. Yes you can use other cameras and I know some great photographers that do. BUT a DSLR or a mirrorless allows you to switch lenses and add other accessories using the same camera body.
I also recommend a camera that is at least 20 megapixels, if your camera is less don’t worry you can still start with that. If you are buying aim higher then 20mps.
Lenses
You do not have to spend a lot of money to get started. If you bought a camera kit then start with the lens that came with it.
If you are looking at adding new lenses a good wide angle lens for landscape photography is always helpful. For wildlife photography the longer the lens (200mm, 300mm, 400mm or 600mm) will allow you to bring your subject in closer.
You do not need to go with the $14000.00 lens but improvements in your lens quality and range will help you get better pictures.
I have an amazing Sigma 150-600 that I LOVE for my wildlife. Well worth every penny!!!
Flash
For nature and wildlife I would stay away from spending any money on flashes. In my opinion more important areas should be updated first.
Tripod / Monopod
I do not often use a tripod but there are times that you will want or need a good tripod. If you do not have a good tripod this is an area that you should look at. The cheaper tripods are fine as a platform to hold your camera in bright light but nothing less.
A good tripod will hold your camera still and allow you to pan with your lens. You can use your tripod for long night exposures and also to hold your larger lenses.
Monopods are another great option. If you like to hike or just need some extra support for a big lens in bright light a monopod will help with that. They are cheaper than a tripod and a lot lighter. Monopods are designed to add some additional support when hand holding.
Carrying bag for your equipment
A good carrying bag is a must to keep things organized and safe. If you do a lot of hiking get a good backpack and you will never regret it. Trying to haul gear any distance is a NIGHTMARE without a good bag.
Batteries
Extra batteries are relatively cheap and a great idea. Nothing is worse than getting out to a location and running out of power.
A in-vehicle charger is also a good idea to charge your batteries if you are going to be on location for a number of days.
Accessories / Equipment
Additional camera cards are great to have. Everyone a;ways think they have lots of room to take more pictures. BUT when your card is full you are out of luck. EXTRA cards allow you to shoot more.
Other items to consider like filters, remotes, etc can also help improve your photography. My way of telling if I need something or not is if I have had a need for it at least a couple times I will put it on my list to buy.
I NEVER buy something if I don’t have a purpose for it. No point in spending money for stuff that never gets used.
the best Telephoto lens that i have used on an SLR is the Canon EF 70-200 F/2.8 lens. Best image quality ever.~*”