Stepping My Photography Game Up

It is only June, but this summer is already off to an amazing start! I took a Cadillac CTS to Montreal for a couple days, and am in the planning stages of a couple other road trips. It's quite exciting, and I was thinking that one thing that would make my road trips even better would be to be able to capture some great shots. So, last week I made the decision to step my photography game up. Don't get me wrong, I love my iPhone, as you can tell by my ridiculous amount of pics on Instagram, but I've been contemplating on purchasing a DSLR camera for awhile now. On Friday night - I took the plunge! 

After some research, I purchased a Canon EOS Rebel T3. I'm a beginner (read: brand-spanking new), so this is a great entry-level camera. The camera is light-weight, and easy to use. I'm still learning all the features, but from playing with it over the weekend, I am incredibly happy with my choice! 

Here are some of the Product Features captured from the Best Buy website. 

Product Features

• The high-res 12.2MP CMOS sensor works with the DIGIC 4 image processor so images are exceptionally sharp and clear with incredible tonal range and reduced noise
• Use the Live View function to compose your shots on the stunning 2.7" LCD screen
• An Image Rating function makes it easy to sort and quickly play back your photos
• Creative Auto mode lets you change your photos to look exactly how you want them
• Improved EOS HD Movie mode with expanded recording [HD: 30p (29.97) / 25p] and in-camera movie editing options makes filmmaking easy
• Learn more about the camera's shooting modes and features with the on-screen guide's easy-to-understand explanations
• 3.0fps continuous shooting up to approximately 3 JPEGs or 2 RAW files so you never miss a moment of fast-moving action
• Capture gorgeous HD 1280 x 720 movies
• A high ISO range of 100-6400 makes shooting in low-light situations a snap
• The high-speed, high-precision 9-point AF system ensures you get accurate focus in a split second
• The 63-zone dual-layer metering system analyzes the area around the chosen points for optimal exposure and image quality with every click
• For use with SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards
• Compatible with the full line of Canon EF and EF-S lenses

Now, this camera is not only for road trips - obviously. It's a great investment for capturing so many of life's awesome moments. I'm excited to learn more and share some great shots with all of you!

If you have any tips or tricks for DSLR photography, please share!