Digital SLRs have better image quality, this is due to the larger image sensors which allows for larger pixel sizes. Digital SLRs are able to be used at a faster ISO which will lead to faster shutter speeds and less grain. Digital SLRs also have built in noise-reduction when generating JPEG images which also cut down on visible noise. They are infinitely adaptable, their ability to change lenses opens up a cornucopia of possibilities for todays photographers. A point and shoot may have a nice little 3x Optical Zoom my Digital SLR can be fitted with a variety of high quality lenses ranging from wide angle to super long depending upon what I'm photographing . Add to this a large range of other accessories (flashes, filters etc.) and a Digital SLR can be utilised in many different situations. Digital SLRs are quicker than point and shoots when it comes to things like start up, focusing and shutter lag. The optical viewfinder is a major facet. Due to the reflex mirror Digital SLRs are very much a what you see is what you get operation.
You can utilise the manual controls, a Digital SLR is designed that it is assumed that the photographer has the ability to control their own settings. Automatic modes are available but again limit flexibility and creativity. A large ISO range gives greater flexibility over what and where you can shoot- this varies between cameras The great thing about a Digital SLR is the versatility that it gives in many areas, especially depth of field. This is really an extension of it's manual controls and ability to use a variety of lenses but a Digital SLR can give you depth of field that puts everything from foreground to background in focus through to nice blurry backgrounds.
Tips when choosing a Digital SLR
The first thing is decide on your budget. Digital SLRs vary in price from the low hundreds to a few thousand pounds or dollars. Decide on your budget and stick to it, it is very easy to get swayed once the salesman is in front of you and you have the camera in hand.
Secondly, feel. For me, the best way to decide on your new camera is about how does it feel in the hand. Is it heavy? Can you reach all the buttons? Are there too many buttons? Is it a good fit to the eye?
Thirdly, look at what it comes with. Are you just buying a body as you have some lenses already? Do your old lenses fit or do you need an adaptor. If it come with lenses, are you happy with the standard ones, will they meet your need?. How much are spare batteries? What sort of camera bag will you need?
Finally, what resolution do you need. Are you intending to be a professional and take high quality prints that need to be blown up to a large size, or are you, like many going to take pictures that be mainly seen on the computer screen or at most be A4 sized.
Final thoughts
For me, there is no such thing as a bad Digital SLR. There are just different brands and prices. For some, a budget camera that comes with two lenses will be fine, whilst others will feel the need to splash the cash and go for the top of the range. It is up to you, but just remember, you are responsible for deciding what to photograph, not the camera.
Back in the old days, it used to be that those who wanted to take just snapshots would just get a point and shoot camera. The serious photographers would all get SLRs. With today's wide variety of electronics, consumers have a huge set of options when it comes to choosing a camera, and these lines are no longer so distinct. Because of the more advanced features available on consumer level cameras with the advent of the digital revolution, you can take some very high quality pictures without going the full SLR route.
So, how do you find out if you need an SLR? To answer this questions, we'll assume that you're choosing between a high level, "prosumer" digital camera, and a quality digital SLR from a well known company. These prosumer cameras have the high image qualities, and full feature set that allows them be competitive with an SLR on many fronts. But, there are a few areas where they fall short of the capabilities of a full blown SLR.
If any of these features sounds unfamiliar to you, or you have no idea why you'd see yourself using them, you can safely choose a camera other than a digital SLR. If, however, you can't live without any of the following features, it looks like a SLR is in your future. Keep in mind that all these differences may not apply to all models, but on the whole, this serves as an accurate comparison.
The first and probably the most obvious differences between a SLR and a prosumer grade digital camera is speed. An SLR is faster in almost every way. Since you have an accurate, real time view of the scene through your viewfinder, and a very low shutter lag, you can literally "capture the moment" with an SLR. With most prosumer cameras, you're viewing the world through an LCD display, which has some inherent lag involved. Additionally, these cameras are also saddled with shutter lag, which means that even after you push the button, the picture isn't captured until a little bit later.
Another obvious difference between SLRs and prosumer models the the SLR's ability to use interchangeable lenses and accessories. Most prosumer cameras have a wide range zoom lens that covers a good portion of popular focal lengths. However, if you need a wider angle, or more magnification, you're out of luck. SLRs have lenses available for every purpose. You pay for this capability in terms of both money and weight, but for many, its worth it. External flashes are an option in some prosumer cameras, but these are an option for all SLRs. If you need to use a serious flash, you're getting an SLR for sure.
Another large difference is the size of the sensor. Simply put, a larger sensor means a better image, and SLRs deliver this in spades. Larger sensors also allow you to use higher ISOs without noise, which can be a lifesaver in low light and/or fast action. Also, the image from the SLR will simply look better, all else being equal.
Finally, you should consider that SLRs, being built for professionals, are very durable when compared to most prosumer digicams. If you need equipment that will hold up under abuse, you need to get an SLR.
I hope all this helps clear up some of the differences between high end digital cameras and true SLRs. Generally, once you understand the differences, it should be pretty clear whether the extra weight and cost of the SLR are worth it for you. Happy shopping!
Both Stephen Yeardley & David Wilson are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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