As a quick follow-up to my previous post about buying a digital camera, I wanted to address a question that keeps surfacing regarding the purchase of digital SLR cameras - "do you think I should buy one?"

As the various camera manufacturers produce new and less costly digital 35 mm camera bodies, it becomes tempting for amateur photographers to make the jump from point-and-shoot to digital SLR. It's easy to see how a potential consumer could be lured by the features and ever-increasing resolution of digital sensors, all at an affordable price. In many ways, it seems like the obvious jump.

However, as with most things in life, it's not that simple. The one main thing that prospective consumers fail to realize is that buying the camera body is only part of the equation. The other part of the cost is the lenses – and this is not by any means an insignificant cost. Sure, there are many inexpensive lenses on the market, but more often than not they won't be worth the cost – and this typically includes the lenses that come with some models. There are some decent knock-off lenses made by companies like Sigma, but it takes some research to find them.

As any professional will tell you, the quality of glass (that makes up the lens) matters – and that glass can be costly. Photographers new to the digital SLR market can expect to spend from $400-800 per lens for the lower end models and in the many thousands for high end lenses with superior glass. Most professionals have many, many thousands of dollars wrapped up in lenses.

Another thing that the average consumer fails to realize is that, just because they've bought a fancy new digital SLR camera doesn't mean that it'll automatically take phenomenal photos. It takes a good deal of work to get the photos people see in galleries and art shows – from mastering the technical to mastering the digital workflow.

My main piece of advice for most people who ask me if they should buy a digital SLR is by countering with my usual first question: “how much do you intend on spending?” This is not to discourage potential digital SLR consumers, but mainly to gage their interest. I've found that most people who have consulted with me for purchasing advice will be happiest with a simple point-and-shoot model – both with the results and with their pocketbook.

I often get requests for advice on buying a digital camera - which is a little like being asked what car to buy. Like cars, digital cameras come in nearly every shape and size imaginable. Despite the number of choices, there's a camera out there that will fit your needs - but, be prepared to answer a number of questions before finding it.

The first question I typically ask is "what is your price range?" because that generally eliminates a number of models. As with all things, prices range from simple models in the low 100's to top of the line professional models that are about the same price as a car down payment.

But, the more important question that you have to consider is "what are your photographic goals?" Admittedly, this question sounds a bit introspective, but I don't mean it in a "meaning of life" kind of way. Rather, you need to think about where you'll be taking photos, what you'll be doing with them and what needs you have with regard to printing the photos. These questions will help guide you toward the right model - from the right number of megapixels to the right size and options.

Be advised though that once you've found a model to purchase, you're not quite done shopping. Make sure to budget in the cost of a decent sized memory card (depending on what model you buy and the resolution) to capture your captivating, stunning photos on. And if you wish to print your own photos, a printer will be necessary as well - and they come in all flavors as well.

Fortunately, the internet offers a number of great guides to help out the novice photographer find the camera (and other equipment) that best suits their needs. These include:

• What to look for in a digital camera - BetterPhoto.com
• How to buy a digital camera - PCWorld.com
• Digital camera buying guide - CNET

Recently (late August), Canon announced the release of their latest digital offering - the Canon 5d. It includes a full-frame 12.8 Megapixel CMOS sensor, high-precision 9-point AF system and 2.5 inch display. Although I haven't had a chance to even see or hold one in my hands, I've read some good things about this new product.

For a great overview of the 5d, visit The Luminous Landscape. Not that I'm ever lacking for wishlist items, but the 5d is likely to be near the top of my list.