Do I need a new camera? Or a new setting?

Most disappointing photos come from a setting, a habit or the lens, and each costs less to fix than a new body. A new camera earns its price in a short list of cases. Answer a few questions to see which side you're on.

1. What's bothering you most? Blurry photos Grainy, noisy photos in low light Flat or dull colour Focus lands on the wrong thing, or misses moving subjects Not enough background blur My video looks or sounds bad

2. Which camera do you have?

3. A few details

Have you tried a faster shutter speed (at least 1 over your focal length) with stabilization switched on?

Not really Yes, still blurry

Do you often shoot handheld in dim places (indoors, evenings)?

Yes, a lot Not often

Does your camera have in-body stabilization?

Yes No Not sure

3. A few details

Do you shoot RAW and expose correctly in the camera (not brightening a dark photo later)?

Not really Yes, still noisy

What's the smallest f-number your lens opens to?

f/3.5 or higher (most kit zooms) f/2.8 or lower Not sure

3. A few details

What are you photographing?

Still subjects, posed people People moving, kids Pets, birds, wildlife or sport

Have you tried continuous autofocus (AF-C / Servo) with tracking or subject detection turned on?

Not really Yes, still missing

Does your camera detect and follow animal or bird eyes on its own?

Yes No Not sure

3. A few details

Have you tried all four together: the smallest f-number, getting closer, more distance behind the subject, and zooming in?

Not all of them Yes, still busy

Which lens are you using?

The kit zoom (f/3.5 to 5.6 or similar) A fast prime (f/1.8 or lower)

3. What's wrong with it? The sound It's shaky Flat, grey or odd colour My camera can't record what I need (4K 120p, 10-bit, log)

The reasoning behind every answer is in the full guide: Do I need a new camera? Diagnose the problem first.

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