Phone or camera: what should a beginner buy first?
Work out whether a separate camera will solve a real photography limitation before buying a body and lens.
Practical guides with DEX
Photography blog
Explore photography through the pictures you want to make, from everyday moments to landscapes and close-ups. Browse camera equipment, accessories and relevant learning resources.
Check what your phone or current camera can already do before adding equipment. Compare the exact model and compatible accessories, and include storage, batteries and editing costs in your budget.
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Learn before you buy
Photography mini-blog
Camera lenses: a compatibility checklist before you order
Check lens mount, sensor coverage and supported functions before buying a new or used camera lens.
Choosing a tripod you will actually carry
Compare tripod stability, working height and packed size using your complete camera setup.
Memory cards for cameras: capacity is only one part
Choose a camera memory card by supported format and recording requirements, then plan how you will back up its contents.
Window-light product photos with a small setup
Create clearer product photographs using a window, a simple background and consistent camera placement.
A photo backup routine you can check
Protect photographs with a simple copy-and-restore routine instead of treating a memory card as permanent storage.
Used camera buying checks before you pay
Inspect a used camera's condition, operation and included accessories before comparing it with new prices.
A camera bag for one day out
Choose a camera bag around one day's equipment, carrying comfort and quick access rather than unused capacity.
Sharp photographs of moving subjects: diagnose before upgrading
Separate movement blur from missed focus so you can practise the right camera setting before buying equipment.
Photo editing without collecting unnecessary subscriptions
Build a repeatable photo-editing routine and check export needs before paying for extra software.