Buyers’ guide
Camera equipment can be pricey. No matter how much someone means to you, seeing the price tag on a brand-new camera can make you question whether you love them that much. Sound familiar? If so, it might be worth considering buying used. OK, we get it, the thought of leaving the difference between a wonderful surprise and a terrible disappointment in the hands of a dodgy seller online is a risk many of us aren’t willing to take – so use a trusted reseller. These companies have stellar reputations and even offer warranties. MPB is a prime example – you could even trade in some of old gear of your own to offset the cost. The money-saver Used gear
A newfound freedom Wireless mic systems
The sound choice
Shotgun mics
If you’re taking the next steps into more serious video recording – such as conducting interviews or capturing conversations with multiple speakers – a wireless microphone system is essential. Having the ability to record high-quality audio wirelessly makes an enormous difference to the sound quality and professionalism of a production. The Rode Wireless Go II is an excellent place to start. It’s simple, good quality and easy to use, even for complete beginners.
Video is an increasingly important part of cameras. Most models these days offer high-quality video that not so long ago was reserved for professionals. However, one thing’s for sure – a video is only as good as the quality of its sound, so relying on the built-in mic is a bad idea. If your recipient is just getting into video as a medium, a decent- quality shotgun mic is the perfect gift. The Sennheiser MKE 200 will give your loved one the best possible start for a very reasonable price.
Gift vouchers If all else fails
If you’ve reached the end of this article and are still completely lost, there’s only one thing for it: gift vouchers. They’re nothing to be ashamed of. Photography is an extremely subjective art form. From taste in the art itself, right down to the gear a photographer uses. When it’s something this personal, buying gifts can be quite a minefield. The key is to buy your vouchers from a company with the widest possible choice to ensure all bases are covered. One such retailer is Wex Photo Video, where you can find all the major brands, plus much more.
If your recipient is currently taking photos on their smartphone and would like to take their first steps in ‘real’ photography, Christmas is the perfect opportunity to get them started. The start of something Entry-level cameras
for any self-respecting Instagrammer. What’s more, the Fujifilm line-up contains some excellent lenses and higher-level cameras too, so it’s an excellent system to buy into.
Fujifilm offers great entry-level options, not least its most recent camera, the X-M5. The external dials on these cameras are great for beginners, and they also look cool – perfect
20 Photography News | Issue 118
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