SAIT Polytechnic Journalism Program – 2012 / 2013 RECOMMENDED CAMERAS LIST FOR PHOTOJOURNALISM

So, what does a typical photojournalist carry?

A typical photojournalist will usually carry two (sometimes more) camera bodies, a selection of high quality lenses, at least two units, wireless transmitters, and a wide variety of other accessories. For the first year journalism student, however, this would be far too cost- prohibitive to require all of this equipment. We only require students to purchase the absolute minimum - one camera, one lens, one flash, and a selection of smaller accessories (please see the Equipment & Supplies List document).

However, students should be aware that to pursue photojournalism as a means of making a living, a significant outlay of money for equipment purchases and upgrades will be required throughout your career. But, you must also keep in mind that unless you are independently wealthy, there are few photojournalists working today who were able to purchase all of their equipment in the early stages (especially their college years) of their career. If you are concerned about the costs of entry into this industry, please take heart – equipment can be acquired over a period of time.

What Camera Should You Choose?

For serious professional photojournalists, Canon and are the two main brands that cater to the professional market. Keep in mind that if you are serious about pursuing the photojournalism major in second year, you will need to have the appropriate equipment to handle the rigors of the profession.

CANON: all models below have video capability (which is mandatory for our course)

• Lower-end, entry level DSLRs… Canon EOS Rebel series cameras… Models include the T2i; T3; T3i; T4i. These are not recommended if the student is intending to pursue the Photojournalism Major in second year.

• Mid-range DSLR Cameras… Canon EOS 60D; Canon EOS 7D; Canon EOS 5D Mark II

• High-end DSLR Cameras… Canon EOS 1D Mark IV; Canon EOS 5D Mark III; Canon EOS 1DX

NIKON: all models below have video capability (which is mandatory for our course)

• Lower-end, entry level DSLRs… Nikon D3100, D5100, D90... These are not recommended if the student is intending to pursue the Photojournalism Major in second year.

• Mid-range DSLR Cameras… Nikon D300s, D7000

• High-end DSLR Cameras… ; ; Nikon D3x;

These are recommendations only. Should you choose to purchase another brand of camera (many of which might suit your needs just fine), or an earlier model used camera, make sure that the unit is of the DSLR type with interchangeable lenses, is capable of full manual control, and has video capability. If you are looking at purchasing an older used camera, it is advisable to speak with a photo instructor, and discuss your options first.

The job description of today’s photojournalist is changing. Video shooting and editing is now an integral part of a print journalist’s skill set. Major advances in camera technology have allowed newspaper and magazine photojournalists to carry pro-level DSLR cameras that are capable of capturing high definition video. Because these new cameras are becoming the tool of choice for news media photographers, it is imperative that you purchase a DSLR camera that can capture video footage. Please stick to the DSLR camera systems mentioned above, and DO NOT purchase a dedicated unit that captures still images.

For help or advice contact any one of the following photojournalism instructors: Kevin Udahl ([email protected]) Greg Fulmes ([email protected]) Rob Galbraith ([email protected])