If you are in the market to purchase a digital camera, you have surely seen several different types of cameras. It isnt exactly clear what the differences between the types are, and it can be confusing trying to choose the digital camera thats right for you. In this article, we wil discuss the different types of cameras so that you can better understand what to look for in purchasing a digital camera.

Point and Shoot Digital Cameras

Most consumer cameras on the market today fall into the category of Point and Shoot digital cameras. These cameras usually provide resolutions of between 2 and 4 megapixels (million pixels). These cameras are the digital version of your typical 35mm consumer camera.

A point and shoot digital camera is designed to do just that - take snapshots. They provide limited flexability with options, although many newer models have some limited options for special effects. The image quality from a point and shoot digital camera is generally good enough for common uses, such as auction photos, and even 4 X 6 prints.

If you just want a standard, entry level digital camera for family snapshots and auction photos, then a point and shoot digital camera is a budget conscious choice.

Semi Professional Digital Cameras

A semi professional digital camera is a more advanced version of a point and shoot digital camera. Typicaly, these cameras provide resolutions between 5 and 6 megapixels (million pixels). They also often offer the user additional settings and greater control over the camera. The image quality of these cameras is good enough to produce clear prints up to about 8 x 10.

A semi professional digital camera may be the best option for you if you seek greater creative control than you can get with a point and shoot model. The increased flexability does come with a price. Most semi professional models are priced much higher than point and shoot models.

Digital SLR Cameras

If you are a serious or professional photographer, no less than a Digital SLR model will do. SLR stands for Single Lens Reflex. Digital SLR cameras are very similar in operation to their 35 mm SLR countereparts. Also, many camera companies (such as Cannon and Nikon) have built their digital SLR models to be compatible with 35 mm SLR lenses. This is a great benefit to professional photographers who can select a model that is compatible with their existing lenses.

Digital SLR cameras provide an amazing ammount of creative control over the camera and the resuting images. Also, these cameras provide resolutions over 6 Megapixels and can produce prints of poster size without noticable pixelazation.

A Digital SLR camera (without lenses) is a pricey investment indeed. Currently, you can expect to spend $1500 or more on the camera alone. Accessories and lenses cost extra.