What does “body-only” mean on a DSLR, and do I need to buy a lens separately?
Asked 11/11/2014
5 views
2 answers
0
I found a DSLR listed as “body-only” and I’m not sure what that means. Does it mean the camera can be used without any lens attached, or does it mean the camera is being sold without a lens and I’ll need to add one before I can take normal photos? If a lens is required, what kind of starter lens should I look for?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
11y ago
2 Answers
30
You need a lens. It's probably possible to persuade the camera to expose the sensor without a lens on it, but nothing would be in any sort of focus whatsoever.
As an aside, if you're asking this kind of basic question about cameras, I'd question whether a full-frame SLR like the D750 is the right choice. You'll end up spending a lot more on your equipment (potentially 3x as much) for a relatively small change in the abilities of the system.
Originally by user11371. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user11371
11y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
“Body-only” means the camera is being sold without a lens. A DSLR body does not have a built-in taking lens like a compact camera, so for normal photography you will need to attach a compatible lens.
Technically, a camera may still fire without a lens attached, but the result won’t be a useful focused image. So in practice, yes: buy a lens.
A good beginner option is often a low-cost used lens. Common starter choices include:
- a 50mm f/1.8 prime (“nifty fifty”), which is inexpensive, sharp, and good in low light
- an 18-55mm kit lens on systems that support one, since kit lenses are usually affordable and versatile
Just make sure the lens matches the camera’s mount and sensor format. For example, full-frame DSLR bodies need lenses that cover a full-frame sensor.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI11y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Does a DSLR body-only package include a battery and charger?
What does a camera lens sold as a “white box” item mean, and does it still have a USA warranty?
Why are some camera lenses sold at huge discounts, and should I avoid them?
What does a lens tripod collar do, and do collar-equipped lenses have to be used on a tripod?
Should a first-time DSLR buyer get the kit lens or buy the body and lens separately?