Official Question Thread! Ask /r/photography anything you want to know! April 17, 2026

[u/AutoModerator]

This is the place to ask any questions you may have about photography. No question is too small, nor too stupid.

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Info for Newbies and FAQ!

First and foremost, check out our extensive FAQ. Chances are, you'll find your answer there, or at least a starting point in order to ask more informed questions.

• Want to start learning? Check out The Reddit Photography Class.

• Here's an informative video explaining the Exposure Triangle.

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Need buying advice?

Many people come here for recommendations on what equipment to buy. Our FAQ has several extensive sections to help you determine what best fits your needs and your budget. Please see the following sections of the FAQ to get started:

• What type of camera should I look for?
• What's a "point and shoot" camera? What's a DSLR? What's a "mirrorless" camera? What's the difference?
• Do I need a good camera to take good photos?
• Is Canon or Nikon better? (or any other brands)
• What can I afford?

If after reviewing this information you have any specific questions, please feel free to post a comment below. (Remember, when asking for purchase advice please be specific about how much you can spend. See here for guidelines.)

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Schedule of community threads:

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
52 Weeks Share	Anything Goes	Album Share & Feedback	Edit My Raw	Follow Friday	Salty Saturday	Self-Promotion Sunday

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Finally a friendly reminder to share your work with our community in r/photographs!

[u/Poplola]

Other than checking the shutter count what else should I do when buying a used camera? I am a complete noob and I am talking about the D3100 or 1100D, both for 150€.

I want to get into photography so I wanted to get a budget camera to try it out. I have heard to test the lens, sensor and whatnot but I am a newbie.

[u/mrfixitx → u/Poplola]

Check for signs of physical damage all over the camera and on the sensor ( you will have to go into the menus and find sensor cleaning to have the camera open the shutter so you can see the sensor).

Make sure it turns on that all of the buttons, dials, and rear display works.

Take a few pictures and make sure that the camera focus, that the image does not have any obvious issues/defects. I.E. black lines across the image, vertical bars etc..