10 Moments I Would Have Missed Without a DSLR Camera
6. Split- Second Splash
My kids both love the water. We’ve had most of Lil’ J’s birthday parties at the pool, and we basically live in the water over the summer.
We have a neighbor- hood pool, a slew of splash pads through Austin, and pools to enjoy at the gym.
Typically I’m not a fan of bringing any kind of camera to the pool. But there are some moments when I can’t resist.
The photographer who took pictures at Lil’ J’s first birthday party got a shot of her and I together that froze the moment perfectly. I held my daughter in my arms and spun around, while we spun in the water shooting up at us. Her lens froze the tiny droplets all around us in place. Now every summer I make it a point to bring my big girl camera and get at least one shot of my kids having a blast in the water. Of course it winds up turning into a “let’s try that again” approach and I wind up bringing it a few times, but the exciting pictures rarely disappoint.
Quick Tip: A higher shutter speed will freeze motion.
Bottom Line: Without a question I needed a DSLR to crank that shutter speed way up to get the water droplets splashing. In wide open sun my ISO was pretty low, and aperture was set to about 3.0 to focus on the subjects in the picture, and blur out the distracting background.
I don;t have a DSLR, but someday maybe I will get one. I am happy with my small camera for now 🙂
Sometimes it’s nice not knowing what you’re missing. One you go DLSR it’s hard to go back 😉
Your pictures are always so awesome. I definitely think it is no coincidence that I woke up thinking about getting a camera soon. No kids yet but I would like to start taking more pictures. Can you share some tips on a camera for a beginner like me? I have looked at the Canon Rebel but have no idea about lens sizes and other accessories.
Thank you
It’s meant to be! Thanks so much for your sweet compliment! Ok so I mentioned in another reply all of my lenses and my cameras. For a beginner I’d suggest the Canon Rebel T6i. I have one right now and I love it! With it I’d use a 18-55mm “kit” lens. As well as a 50mm 1.8lens (it’s about $95).
Maybe I’ll do a post comparing my cameras soon 🙂 Let me know what you decide!
Thanks for your reply Jennifer. You are so sweet to take time and reply my comment. I will definitely let you know what I decide.
I love the new blog look by the way 🙂
Yes please do a camera post. I would love that. Looking through your post for a camera bag now
Love your tips! I’m wanting to purchase my first camera, which do you suggest I start with?
So glad you enjoyed my tips Toni! Ok so I mentioned this above (or is it below?) the cameras and lenses I use, but for beginners I’d recommend a Canon Rebel. I started with the XS but they’ve come out with several more versions since then. The Canon Rebel T6i is the newest model and awesome to start with. I’m testing one now and don’t wanna give it back! haha. Hope that helps!
Jennifer I admire your work and respect your opinion this post came just at the right time. I am currently just using my IPhone as my means for getting back in touch with my photographer side, I didn’t want to commit to anything but this share has fueled my gear towards a dslr. I have been doing some research but still not to clear can you tell me what exactly you use? Camera, lenses etc…? Thanks in advance xo
Thanks so much Mari. It’s so fun getting in touch with that photographer side and I’m sure you’ll be amazing and have a blast! So currently I’m shooting with two DSLRs. A Canon 5D Mark ii and a Canon 70D. I got the 70D purely for the video autofocus capabilities. But now the new Canon Rebel also has that now. On that camera use the “kit” 18-55mm lens (I actually just bought another last week after testing it on that camera, it’s awesome. I had one years ago but sold it.)
On my 5D Mark ii I use my 100mm 2.8L lens, (it’s overall my prettiest and favorite). My Tamron 28-75mm 2.8 lens, and my 50mm 1.4. I hope that’s not overwhelming. To start I’d recommend the new Rebel t6i with a 50mmm 1.8. I’m testing one right now and it’s an amazing camera. Hope that helps!!
Jennifer not too much at all I loved the info and YES! please do a camera post! xo
I love my DSLR camera! ( Except the part when everyone asks me to take pics of their kids, too!)
I always bring my DSLR with me. But I also hate always being the only one with a camera
Haha Chastity, I never thought about it that way. It isn’t fun when everyone relies on YOU to take and send all the photos huh?
Those pictures are beautiful!
Thanks Christina 🙂
you caught some amazing moments.. I need to learn how to use my DSLR..
I’m telling you, I learned SO MUCH just by reading the manual.
I need a new camera, mine is getting old! I will be checking out this one! Great post, cute photo!
Thanks mama 🙂 Lots of choices. Let me know if you need any help deciding. I’ve tried several.
I don’t have a DSLR camera but my digital one does pretty good. I remember back in the day when they only had polaroid cameras.
“Only” had Polaroids? haha. I remember when those were FANCY! My mom still has ours actually and we recently played with it. No matter the camera, I’m glad you have one to capture moments with your family!
We too upgraded our camera when we found out I was pregnant for the first time. So worth it! We’ve captured some gorgeous photos and memories I would have hated to miss.
Awww, I’m so happy to hear that Katie. Aren’t they the best to look back on? I tear up going through my archives.
I just bought my DSLR and my kids are 9 to 13. I must have missed a bunch of moments. So sad.
So many great photos! I have a great little. Point and shoot, but I would love a dslr. Hopefully soon!
I have always loved your pictures. Because of you I bought a light kit a few years ago. I used it at a family reunion last year. I hope you consider writing a post or two that go into detail on using a Canon camera and all the settings. I know I would love that!
As a professional photographer, I’m so in agreement with you!
I actually started right after college, but I certainly sped up the business side of things after having kids and realizing how much I loved these new moments.
I love my Canon. They are the best!
Aw so many precious moments! I LOVE my DSLR camera as well!
These are great shots! I’ve had a few DSLRs but I need to learn how to use the manual settings.
I’m so glad to read this. I love photography and I really want to buy a DSLR!
Awe what a sweet post and precious photo’s. I have DSLR also on my new camera – love it!
Your photos are just precious! I too have a Canon and love it!
Great photos and lots of good information. I need to look into getting a DSLR camera.
These photos are all very beautiful. Dslr cameras are definitely worth the buy.
All I can say is WOW! You take absolutely amazing photographs! I love it all!
I need to use my DSLR more. I have a hard time remembering to take it out sometimes since I always have my iPhone.
I love taking pictures! I’m thinking that I need to take the plunge and finally invest in a DSLR. Your pictures are beautiful 🙂
I love the pictures they look amazing – thanks for sharing
These are fabulous photos. I love my camera but I’ll have to have my girlfriend check this out. She’s in the market for a new camera.
I want to gete a new one soon. Those pics are just so cute.
Those are some beautiful moments! Thank goodness for cameras!
Gorgeous pics! I have no idea how to use a DSLR but I would love to learn someday!
You have some amazing shots. Thank you for inspiring me to take more photos myself.
Thanks for sharing such beautiful information with us. I hope u will share some more information. And photo is mind blowing.