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Starting out in photography? Here is an in-depth guide on what essentials you’ll need to start shooting with confidence.

The world of photography is nothing short of visionary. Whether you’re just establishing a new hobby or considering pursuing a career in this exhilarating field, photography allows you to tap into your creativity and perception of the world’s beauty. However, it can be daunting to figure out where to begin your journey if you are new to the world.

Firstly, what does a beginner photographer need? As a Nikon specialist camera shop, we are experts who can help you identify what equipment you need to bring your vision to life. So, without further ado, please keep reading for our beginner photographer essentials guide that’ll have you capturing with confidence in no time.

Choosing the Right Nikon Camera for Beginners

First and foremost, on our Photographer for Beginners guide, you must know what Nikon camera will suit your desired outcome. Here are a couple of our camera recommendations that are perfect for starters:

Nikon Z30

Perfect for beginners, the Nikon Z30 is a nifty number for shooting excellent photographs. This camera allows users to capture much more light than a smartphone due to the ultra-wide Z mount that lets its large DX-format 20.9 MP CMOS sensor absorb lighting. The Z30 is perfect for daytime and nighttime photography; no matter the time of day, the detail captured surpasses any phone and is a great option for trying out a range of photography styles.

Furthermore, ​​the Z30 doesn’t have an EVF, making it small in size and offering brightness that no other Nikon camera can attain. Because of this, it’s ideal for vlogging alongside photography, especially as it shoots in 4k video.

Nikon Z50

Similarly, the Nikon Z50 is ideal if you prefer a mirrorless camera option with a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF). With its 20.9-megapixel sensor combined with immaculate autofocus and an innovative tilting touchscreen, the beginner DSLR camera’s performance is unmatched for its price.

Beginners can fully immerse themselves into photography with this compact, lightweight camera that’s perfect for on-the-go. It’s very portable and a popular, easy-to-use choice.

Struggling To Pick?

If you are still feeling unsure about which camera is the right one for you, we have created a helpful video comparing both bodies and highlighting the differences in more depth. Click this link to watch the full video, and don’t forget to subscribe as we release new videos every few days covering everything from product reviews to photography tips and opinion pieces.

What Equipment Do You Need as a Beginner Photographer?

You must have the appropriate camera accessories alongside your chosen body to ensure you get the most out of your photography shoots. Below, we have compiled a small list that’ll get you started correctly.

Memory Cards

While this may seem obvious, there is a knack for purchasing a memory card. Not only should you invest in the highest quality, but ample storage will ensure you have enough memory on larger shoots. We recommend looking for Class 10 or UHS-I cards that offer a fast read option and write speeds for smooth data handling. This is especially important when shooting in burst mode or recording videos.

Lenses

Ensuring that your lens choice is versatile will allow you to capture quality photographs in various shooting situations. When it comes to camera lenses for beginners, a standard zoom lens should suffice; this tends to be 16-50mm. However, if you want to explore depth of field, fixed focal length lenses are your best option. For instance, 35mm and 50mm are renowned for their sharpness and stunning bokeh.

Grays of Westminster has many second-hand and brand-new Nikon lenses available online and in our Aladdin’s Cave-esc shop in London. We focus on stocking Nikon because of the unparalleled quality attained in every shot. The brand aims to protect vision while shooting in the harshest environments while solving a photographer’s every need in terms of dim, blue, UV, glare and bright light.

Batteries

Alongside memory cards, you must stay stocked up on batteries. Spare batteries give you peace of mind that you’ll never miss a shot due to power depletion. Although your Nikon camera usually comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, having an extra one while on the go is always a good idea.

Tripod

Tripods take still photography to the next level. A sturdy and easily transportable tripod is essential to gain the most stable shots, especially in low light or long exposure situations. They are also very helpful when it comes to portrait and product photography. There are many different types of tripods, from flexible stands that can be twisted around tree branches to large, sturdy ones that are designed with the studio in mind, so be sure to think about which will suit your needs best.

Optional Camera Accessories

While all of the above are integral elements for a successful photography shoot, other optional camera accessories could enhance your experience further.

Camera Bag: A camera bag does as it says on the tin. Keep your camera gear safe and organised, allowing you to easily access your camera body, lenses and other accessories.

External Flash: If you’d like to control lighting and significantly reduce harsh shadows in your photography, you’d benefit greatly from an external flash attachment. This attachment is ideal for indoor and low-light photography.

UV Filters: As another way to protect your equipment, UV filters allow you to avoid scratches and prevent dust from building up on your lenses. Furthermore, they reduce the impact of ultraviolet light on your shots.

Remote Shutter Release: The remote shutter release is perfect for long exposure shots and keeping a steady vision. You’ll be able to trigger your camera without even touching it.

Second-Hand Camera Equipment from Grays

While getting a brand-new piece of camera equipment is exciting, we have a wide range of second-hand pieces available on Grays, all in prime condition and mostly in their original packaging – making a purchase just as satisfying! Continue exploring our website to find second-hand bargains suited to your abilities and interests.

Getting Started with Grays of Westminster

Once you are stocked up with all the photography essentials you need to begin your first shoot, it’s time to study your camera’s settings on the exposure triangle on the body. As famously said, practise makes perfect, so find your flair by experimenting with a range of subjects, lighting conditions and compositions, and you’ll soon refine your skills.

Remember, photography is down to perception, and it is nothing short of a journey of consistent learning and creative input. If you’d like a helping hand when getting started, our photography experts can help ensure you have everything you need. We also have a YouTube channel packed with videos designed to help beginner and professional photographers. No matter the question or guidance you need, we have decades of experience in photography.

If you have a query, contact us via phone at 020-7828 4925, or visit our wonderful little shop in the heart of London. You can also order online from our website. Click here to browse. We have the equipment, expertise and enthusiasm to guide you in the right direction. Happy shooting!