DSLR CAMERA GUIDE
Electronic Media Communications
University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College
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Common “point-and-shoot” cameras with fixed lenses (lenses that may not be removed and
changed for other lenses) are not acceptable for course use, as they do not typically offer manual
control of basic camera functions or adequate range of aperture control. This lack prevents users
of such cameras from completing required course assignments.
While you may choose to use a digital camera not on the list, please make sure any DSLR
camera selected has manual control of aperture, shutter speed and focus. In addition, the
instructors cannot possibly be familiar with the wide range of cameras that may potentially be
selected, and therefore may be unable to help you with the camera controls and menus if you do
not also have the instruction manual for the camera.
Cameras – all cameras need to have manual exposure and focus controls
Almost any DSLR made in the past 3 years will suffice.
Suitable Examples of DSLRs:
Canon DSLR – Rebel T3i, T4i, T5i, T6i, and T7i
Nikon DSLR – D3200, D3400, D5200, D5600 & pro DSLR
Olympus DSLR – E-5
Pentax DSLR – K-5, K-30, K-50
Sony DSLR – SLT –A35, A37, A57, A58, A68
Why a digital SLR?
So you've decided to invest in a new digital
camera and have made your mind up that
you want to step up to a digital SLR, but
the huge range of models on offer and
endless flow of technical jargon have left
you more confused than when you started?
Fear not, this page will take the pain out of
choosing the perfect digital SLR for you,
whether you're a seasoned shooter or a
total novice.
Before we get down to business it's worth
stopping for a moment to ask the question:
why would anyone want a digital SLR
when compact digital cameras are so much
smaller, lighter and more affordable? The
answer can be summed up in two words: versatility and image quality.
The versatility isn't just the fact you can change lenses and add a wide range of accessories - from basics
such as flashguns and remote controls to the more specialized equipment that allow SLRs to capture
anything from the tiniest bug to the most distant stars. It's also about the creative versatility offered by the
more advanced controls and higher quality components.
And this leads on to the second factor; image quality. In broad daylight the quality difference between a
good compact and a digital SLR is minimal; both will produce sharp, colorful results with little effort. But
when you start to push the boundaries a bit more; shooting in low light, attempting to capture fast moving
sports action or wildlife, or when you want to experiment with shallow depth of field (to add a soft
