9 things to remember before choosing a DSLR camera

So you always wanted to buy a great camera but didn't know how to go about? Get Ahead reader Madhumita Thakur lists out the things you must keep in mind.

When not at work she loves to talk about Indian Politics, Cricket and Movies at her blog A Pinch of Salt (http://attitudespeaks.blogspot.com/)

We have often come across this saying in our lives -- A picture speaks a thousand words -- but have we ever wondered what really goes into making that picture?

An interesting subject, a creative mind, a perspective and of course a great tool collaborate together to create that magic. In this case the great tool in question is a camera -- more so a DSLR camera.

Technology has bestowed human beings with lots of power and photography is one such glorious example. From amateur to professional every photographer likes to own a DSLR camera but do you know what features make a good DSLR camera? What should you look into before finalising your choice?

To help you with such dilemmatic questions we have highlighted few important features which you must check out while buying your DSLR.

Believe it or not size does matter. The ideal thing is to buy a camera which fits well into your palms. If your palms are small then do not go for a very bulky camera as it would not give you a steady hold which you need while clicking pictures. So hold each camera into your hand and judge your own comfort level.

This is another crucial factor which will decide what type of DSLR you should buy. For instance if you want to take pictures while travelling then you must look at sturdiness of your camera.

On the other hand if you like taking pictures in dark at night then your camera should have high ISO levels and if you like to take pictures of nature, plants and insects then your camera should be equipped with macro capabilities.

It is a myth that higher resolution means better quality picture.

Although a good resolution makes the picture appear great it only matters most when you are getting your pictures enlarged. The picture quality also depends upon other factors like lens, techniques, exposure etc. So don't be hung upon choosing a DSLR with high resolution. Focus on other parameters too.

This feature is literally the stabilising factor while taking pictures.

It prevents your pictures from getting blurred or shaken if your camera moves while taking a shot. It is a technology which replaces the use of tripods. Again a high IS number indicates great sensitivity of the camera to sense motion and stabilize the picture. Cameras can have optical, digital or dual image stabilization features.

This factor determines how well you camera can take pictures in dark or dim lights.

DSLR cameras have a range of ISO 50 to 25600, so depending upon your style of photography you can choose a DSLR which will be apt for your pictures.

Lens is like the eye of your camera so make sure that the lens which you are buying is compatible with your brand of DSLR. Since lens is generally a little pricey it is better to gather this information before you make your purchase.

It is measure in number of shots per charge.

A longer battery life means more pictures which you can click in one charge cycle of your camera. It is of great importance to those who like to travel.

No matter whether you use your camera while travelling or at home or just outside in a garden make sure your camera has resistance to water, dust and shock.

Most of the brands offer one or more resistance in their camera however you must choose a camera depending upon your usage. For instance if you like to take under water shots then a water proof DSLR would be your choice.

Last but also one of the most important factor which will govern your selection.

You must invest in a DSLR depending upon your intentions of using it. If it is just for casual purposes then go for something which will not create a dent in your budget.

However if you are really serious about your photography then you can buy a DSLR on the higher end to augment your skills.

Apart from these there are factors like focus (auto, manual), view finder size, flash modes, pictures modes and other which go a great way in differentiating one DSLR camera from the other.