In last week’s article, we talked about the basics to being a photographer and what you should know as a startup amateur in camera basics. I know what you’re thinking. I’m probably asking for the argument of a lifetime. However, today, instead of telling you which camera is better, I’d like to offer a more unbiased standpoint.

That is, giving you the benefits to be had with each brand of cameras at the basic DSLR level. If you must know, I have used both Canon and Nikon cameras and there are certainly good times to be had with both brands of cameras. I won’t be getting too technical with this, but rather giving you the general idea when you first come into contact based on my personal perspective.

First, we’ll be starting with Nikon:

1. Nikon cameras have more artistic capability

As a current Nikon user, I have found that the Nikon interface has a bit more possibility for artistic editing, such as the ability to overlay photos and transform a photo into monochrome or sepia within the camera itself instead of having to go into an editor post-photoshoot. As a starter, this would be an effective way to learn how to visualize photos without needing to buy external software right away.

2. They have a better auto-focus feature

Some photographers that I have come to know have said that Nikon tends to have a faster and more effective auto-focus feature, and this especially comes into play when you start learning about how to play with your aperture settings. An amateur may not recognize these differences right away, but it's mostly a technical aspect of the camera itself.

3. The lens quality is overall better

Chromatic fringing is a tough issue to deal with, especially when you're new to the field. Canon sometimes requires the use of preset programs in the camera in order to get around this issue. That is, the abnormal discoloration of the photo in certain areas where there is a sharp color contrast. Nikon lenses tend to be better prepared to handle this abnormality.

4. Starter DSLRs are faster

I have heard before that startup Nikon DSLRs tend to operate more quickly than a Canon while taking photos. That is, it has a faster capture time. I have also heard that this is a very minor difference, but it can likely be compensated once you become more experienced.

5. Battery life is a bit longer

This one I can vouch for, and that is that, when I last used Canons, the battery life wasn't up to speed with the Nikon. We had to have a couple of backup batteries because they were so subject to die while we were out on the field. I'd recommend looking into Nikon if you're concerned about battery life.

And now we transition to Canon:

1. Canon cameras are great for sports

Unfortunately, I can't explain the technical aspect for this, but Canons have generally been accepted as a better brand for sports photography. I believe this has to do with how quickly that the settings can be adjusted while in the manual formatting to take a photo without needing to stop and readjust for a few moments.

2. They feel more user-friendly

Unlike Nikon, Canon's camera menu on the display screen makes it much easier to change settings within the camera itself, especially if it has a pull-out display. This makes it easier to learn how to use and, while it requires a little more button pushing, it just creates a more user-friendly screen setup.

3. Video quality is excellent

Nikon has a hard time living up to Canon's video quality. At the basic level, Canon has a better capability to record videos as well as audio, making it an excellent camera to use if you plan on being a film student or intend on recording events for family or friends.

4. Starter DSLRs are a bit cheaper

There's not much of a doubt here. Canon starter DSLR bundles are much cheaper than Nikon. Consider it a bit more bang for the buck.

5. The handling is easier on the user

Canon has a very unique feeling to it that is unlike Nikon. The body feels much smoother in the hands and the lenses tend to feel more professionally made. This is in contrast to Nikon, which tends to feel a bit rough around the edges and almost a bit more bulky. That being said, it's merely a cosmetic choice. It's not a serious make or break factor.

So which camera is the best? Frankly, that’s not for me to decide. That’s for you as the starter photographer. My recommendation is to try a hands-on experience before you go out and purchase your own. And if you have any luck, definitely drop a comment down below and let me know how it goes or what you think!