How to know if a camera is right for you

All photographers — from beginner to advanced — know that choosing the right camera isn’t always as easy as it should be. While we aim to make the process much easier, it doesn’t take away from the fact that there are various models, lenses, and unique features to choose from. 

Plus, how can you know what suits your needs until you’ve tried a camera test for yourself? Professional cameras are a considerable investment, so you’ll ideally want to choose the best model first time round.

Here’s how to do it.

1. Figure out what you need

Are you wondering, “what camera should I buy?” Our answer is to begin with your goals. Before you even start scouring the internet, take a breather and really think about how you work as a photographer. 

Five minutes of thinking time can significantly narrow down your options, making the selection process just that little bit easier. For example:

-Do you specialise in street, travel, or documentary photography? You’ll need a compact and lightweight camera like those in our X Series range.

-Do you love fashion, portrait, or fine art photography? Opt for a GFX Series camera with high-resolution sensors for unparalleled image quality, depth, and detail. If you’re after something more lightweight and portable, the X-T5 and X-H2 are both fantastic options, and feature a great variety of lenses.

-Do you offer video services? Models with high video specifications, flip screens, and In-Body Image Stabilisation (IBIS) technology will be particularly beneficial for you. Some stand-out options include the X-M5 and X-H2S, or the X-S20 for specialist vlogging capabilities.

-Is having an interchangeable lens important to you, or do you value the simplicity of a fixed lens? Many customers opt for a fixed lens model, such as the X100VI, for its lightweight design and portability.

2. Choose your camera system

We can’t speak for other camera systems, but we can definitely say a thing or two about our own. We offer two camera systems available for trial and camera hire:

X Series

Fitted with FUJIFILM’s own X-Trans CMOS Sensor, X series cameras produce rich colour, high speed processing and exceptional image quality, in a compact body. X Series cameras are the ideal choice for beginners and professionals alike.

Key features:

-Burst mode

-Subject detection autofocus

-Film simulation modes

-6.2K / 4K video recording

Compatible with a wide range of FUJINON XF lenses, this camera collection is designed with portability, high-speed shooting, and adaptability in mind.

GFX Series

Featuring a sensor approximately 1.7 times larger than a full-frame sensor, our GFX cameras are renowned for their incredible attention to detail, tonal range, and exceptional image quality. These features make them a go-to choice for portrait, landscape, and commercial photographers alike.

Key features:

-51.4MP / 102MP ultra-high resolution 

-Large format sensor

-5-axis IBIS

-4K video with 10-bit colour

Our GFX cameras are also compatible with a variety of GFX lenses, ranging from ultra-wide and telephoto to macro.

3. Hold the camera in your hands (yes, we’re serious!)

At FUJIFILM House of Photography, we believe that the only way you can make a confident camera decision is to experience it. And by experience, we mean hands-on, because nothing beats holding a camera in your own hands. With our Try Before You Buy loan service, you can enjoy 48 hours of trying out our cameras and lenses completely free of charge, so you can find your perfect piece of kit before purchasing.

Many are surprised to learn that choosing a camera is as much about personal preference as it is about acquiring the best features and capabilities. Grip, size, weight, button placement, and menu layout are all important considerations that can only be experienced when physically holding a camera.

An easy way to do this is to book a camera loan or visit us in store so you can see how a camera feels and responds in the real world. When you can answer the following questions with confidence, you’ll soon learn whether it’s a fit for you:

-Does it feel comfortable? Will it feel comfortable to you after extended use?

-Do you find the controls intuitive?

-How easily can you navigate the menu?

-Do you find the viewfinder clear and responsive?

-Does it suit your shooting style? Will you need a compatible tripod?

4. Pick the best lens

As you know, choosing the right camera body is only half the story. Your choice of lens can completely change your experience and results. With this in mind, we recommend that you hire all the photography equipment you need so you can experiment with different focal lengths and aperture styles.

Consider the following:

-Zoom vs prime: Would you prefer the flexibility of a zoom lens or the sharpness of a prime?

-Size vs performance: Some people prefer a more lightweight lens, whereas some are willing to invest in a more premium lens, which can often be heavier.

-Subject: What are you planning on shooting?

5. Try before you buy

Want to test out our X Series and GFX cameras and lenses before making your purchase? Try out our free 48-hour camera hire service, where you can rent a camera and lenses and really get a feel for your chosen model. 

• Hire X Lenses
• Hire X Cameras
• Hire GFX Lenses
• Hire GFX Cameras

This ‘try before you buy’ service has been designed to give you the opportunity to experiment and eliminate the guesswork from choosing the right camera and lens, because trust us, we know how hard it can be!

Whether you’re eyeing up your first X series or looking to upgrade to the GFX system, our loan service allows you to put our models to the test. Plus, it’s a simple process:

1. Head over to our camera loans page
2. Choose your preferred camera and lens
3. Choose from ‘Loan In Store’ for store collection or ‘Loan Direct’ for home delivery.
4. Select an ideal date for delivery or collection.

Take a look at our full Loan Terms & Conditions for more information.

Find your perfect fit with FUJIFILM House of Photography

What feels like the perfect camera for one person can feel like a poor fit for another, which is exactly why try-before-you-buy camera services like ours are so important.

At FUJIFILM House of Photography, we want every photographer who walks through our doors (physical or online) to find the best camera gear for their needs and style.

Hire photography equipment with FUJIFILM House of Photography today. It’s never been easier to find the best camera or lens so you can develop your photography skills with confidence.