If you about to purchase a digital camera, you no doubt seen several different types of cameras. It may not be clear what the differences between the types are, and it can be confusing trying to choose the digital camera that is indeed right for you. In this article, we will explain the different types of cameras so that you can better understand what to look for in purchasing your perfect 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 resolution of up to 12 mega pixels (million pixels). These cameras are simply the digital version of your typical 35mm consumer camera.

A point and shoot digital camera is designed to do just that - take instant shots. They provide limited flexibility with options, although more and more new releases come equipped with many adjustable settings of which the more experienced photographer will be content with. With these digital cameras now ranging up to 12 mega pixels, you can be confident of printing photos of all sizes. If you want a digital camera which is compatible with your computer and which caters for the majority of circumstances, then this camera is for you.

Semi Professional Digital Cameras

A semi professional digital camera is a more advanced version of a point and shoot digital camera. Typically, these cameras provide resolutions between 10 and 15 mega pixels (million pixels). These cameras obviously come equipped with a lot more adjustable settings and because of the higher resolution, the quality of the picture is superior compared to a point and shoot model. A semi professional digital camera may be a consideration for you if you are a keen photographer and demand more from your photos. Although beware, because of the increased features and quality, expect a heavy increase in the price.

Digital SLR Cameras

If you are a serious or professional photographer, no less than a Digital SLR model will do for you. SLR is short for Single Lens Reflex. Digital SLR cameras are very similar in operation to their 35 mm SLR predecessors. 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 obviously of great benefit and flexibility to professional photographers. These cameras provide the best quality pictures and pictures can be blown up to poster size without hindering quality, needless to say, expect to spend a fortune on these type of cameras.