Slr or Digital Camera
What type of camera should I buy? In general, there are three types of digital cameras: compact/point and shoot, mirrorless interchangeable lens/compact interchangeable lens (MILC or CILC), and digital SLRs (DSLRs).
Slr or Digital Camera
When Eastman Kodak unveiled the Brownie camera in 1900, it was a cardboard box with a lens and a roll of film. As basic as it was, it was revolutionary in democratizing photography. Fast-forward more than a century later, the modern camera is now so advanced that buying one is akin to shopping for a car.
Like cars, there are a ton of choices, but nailing one down that’s right for you is another challenge, especially if you’re buying one online or from a big box store with less than helpful clerks. Whether you are looking to buy an entry level point-and-shoot for your kids or the top-of-the-line digital SLR with the latest bells and whistles for yourself, it’s definitely not a one-model-fits-all kind of decision. Within this huge crop of available models you’ll find digicams in all types, shapes, sizes, and colors, with prices ranging anywhere from $79 on up to a whopping $7,999.
It’s in your best interest to do a little research to find out exactly what you are looking for. It can be daunting, but never fear: Our ultimate digital camera shopping guide will help point you in the right direction. Designed for new camera buyers and those looking to step up to an advanced model, we’ve broken this guide down to the questions most-often asked by consumers.
What type of camera should I buy? In general, there are three types of digital cameras: compact/point and shoot, mirrorless interchangeable lens/compact interchangeable lens (MILC or CILC), and digital SLRs (DSLRs). (There are other specialty cameras, but most consumers should concentrate on these three.) The good news: Everything falls more easily into place once this key question is answered as it narrows down your choices quite a bit.
Point-and-shoot cameras run the gamut: they can be compact shooters that are affordable, simple to use, and pocketsize portable, or more robust pro models with longer zooms or advanced shooting options.
Some good entry-level point-and-shoots can be had for in the $99-$130 range. Key features to look for are optical zoom and stabilization, fast shutter speeds, and HD video. Popular models in this category include the Olympus VR-340 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W710.
Compact megazooms and standard megazooms start at $200 and can go up to $500 or more. Compact megaszooms offer wide-angle lenses with long zooms, giving you a lot of shooting flexibility, but without the bulk of larger DSLR-style standard megazooms. The bigger and more expensive megazoooms, also known as bridge models, offer longer lenses and are full-featured models with DSLR-style bodies; but many still have the shooting performance and photo quality of a compact camera. Models to look at in this space include the Samsung WB250F Smart Camera, Canon PowerShot SX50 HS, Olympus XZ-2, and Samsung EX2F.
This category of cameras offers superior image quality, more creative options, and faster performance than point-and-shoots, but they also come with a higher price tag.
When we used to talk about interchangeable lens cameras, it meant one thing: DSLR. But the category in itself has grown into several distinct categories: traditional DSLRs; Sony’s fixed translucent-mirror models; and MILC models that completely omit the mirror box and optical viewfinder, allowing for a smaller and lightweight design – not to mention a blend of ease-of-use and advanced shooting. (To make things slightly more confusing, the mirrorless category can also refer to Micro Four Thirds with models from Olympus and Panasonic.)
All of these ILC cameras allow you to attach a huge variety of lenses that range from short to long telefoto zoom lenses for far away subjects (click here to read more about interchangeable lenses). Prices for MILC models start at $499 and can go up to $999. The Sony Alpha NEX-F3 is a good choice for entry-level foray into this category, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 is perfect for shooters looking to step up their photo skills. Meanwhile, Ashton Kutcher’s commercials and the camera’s whiter shade of pale sleek design have helped make the Nikon 1 a star in this arena. As for DSLRs, keep reading.
Photographers who want to take full creative control over their images should consider a DSLR. These models offer the advanced features that experienced shooters need, and all of them are compatible with a wide range of interchangeable lenses and accessories. They are more expensive, with prices beginning at about $600 for the body only. If you’re new to this type of camera, an ideal point to start your shopping is with the Canon Rebel T3i, Nikon D3200, Pentax K-30, or Sony Alpha 65. For those looking for a higher end prosumer models, check out the Nikon D700, Canon 60D, or Pentax K-5.
Ideally, you don’t have to spend a fortune to find the camera that is right for you. Many models that are priced higher are loaded with features that you might not use, so leave them to the pros. According to industry analysts, the vast majority of cameras sold range in the ballpark of $200-300. Making the leap to a DSLR will definitely set you back more, but investment will be well worth it if you are into this hobby for the long haul.
If you’ve ever used a compact digicam, you know that these devices take time to focus and save images to memory cards. During these delays, you can easily miss a smiling face or a running child. There are two things to consider. One is the time that elapses between the moment you press the shutter and the moment the camera takes the picture – this is called shutter lag. This had been a major differentiating factor between different camera models, but in recent years shutter lag has grown shorter and the gap between cameras has narrowed quite a bit.
The other camera delay problem is the time the camera needs to get ready between shots. If you are taking candid shots of your kids, a slow camera will definitely mean missed shots. These speeds can vary significantly from camera to camera. To put things in perspective: An average point-and-shoot digital camera generally captures 1-2 frames per second (fps), while many top-of-the-line DSLRs such as Canon’s EOS-1D X, take 12-14 fps, making them ideally suited for fast action shots or sporting events.
Ergonomics is another key element. Try before you buy. Make sure it fits comfortably in your hand and that it’s not so big or bulky. The camera you buy should offer quick accessibility to the most commonly used functions, and menus should be simply structured, logical, and easy to learn. Touch-screen models can allow for greater functionality, but at the same time can be frustrating if the controls and menus are poorly organized or the screen can’t be calibrated to your touch.
It might also be a good idea to purchase your camera from your local photo retailer and getting all your questions answered in person from a knowledgeable source rather than simply going to Google and looking for the cheapest deal online.
If you simply read camera spec sheets, you’ll see that point-and-shoots and DSLRs in some cases have similar megapixel counts (16MP, 18MP, and so on). However, this is like saying a Ford Focus is the same as a Lamborghini – while both may be cars with four wheels, overall performance and quality between the two are very different. The same holds true with point-and-shoot digital cameras versus DSLRs. Compact cameras use much smaller imaging sensors. Although most cameras with small sensors will do a good job for things like sharing online or small prints, by cramming so many megapixels on a small chip, digital noise can be a problem. DSLRs have much larger imagers, meaning you’ll encounter less noise in low light situations and better picture quality overall. Using one, you can shoot in more dimly lit conditions without a flash, with less image degradation. In addition, if huge prints are in your future – or extensive cropping – interchangeable lens models should be in your focal point.
In short, don’t judge a camera solely its megapixel count. The physical size and quality of the image sensor along with the corresponding optics play a much bigger role in image quality than megapixels alone, so don’t be fooled into thinking more megapixels will produce better photographs. A small sensor allows a camera to be compact and portable, but you sacrifice a bit in image quality for the convenience. DSLRs with larger sensors take better photos, but even the most compact DSLRs are bulky. Hence the growing popularity of MILCs: they use larger sensors, but are smaller in size than a DSLR.
The megapixel count matters if you’re looking to print or crop large images, but, as we’ve said, that has nothing to do with the quality of the image itself (see image).
See our guide on image sensors for a closer look, as well as how to determine a camera’s sensor size. If you’re looking to print large images, we have a guide for you, as well.
There are several attributes that differentiate a camera from good to great, and one of them is optics, or the lens. As advanced as the internal components may be, a camera is nothing without its glass eye. As we’ve mentioned, the appeal of an interchangeable lens camera is just that: they not only let you tailor your system to meet your photography needs but also give you more shooting options. While some point-and-shoot cameras on the high-end have very good optics, they can’t compete with the versatility of interchangeable lenses.
Most interchangeable lens models are typically sold with a basic 18-55mm lens, called a kit lens. From there you can go crazy, spending a small fortune on a variety of interchangeable lenses: wide angle, super telephoto, and macro, to name a few. Nikon, Canon, and Sony are well known for their lens quality, but other manufacturers often include equally high-quality lenses from respected lens suppliers such as Leica, Carl Zeiss, or Schneider-Kreuznach. These lenses use finer glass than point-and-shoots, adding to overall quality advantage of DSLRs and mirrorless models.
Note that, despite the name, not all lenses are interchangeable with any camera. For example, Canon lenses are designed to work with Canon cameras, and not Nikon or Sony. While there are third-party mounting adapters available, a Nikon camera won’t be able to utilize the features of a Canon lens, like image stabilization.
Like megapixels, manufacturers frequently throw around big numbers relating to digital zoom. And like megapixels, you should ignore them. Optical zoom uses real optics to get you closer to your subject, while digital zoom merely takes the same amount of pixels you would have in a standard shot and blows them up to fill the frame. The camera captures no more detail. It’s the same zooming or cropping trick you could pull in Photoshop, done in the camera on the fly. While that can sometimes be handy, image quality suffers severely as a result, and most photographers would never use digital zoom. In recent years, fewer and fewer manufacturers are making a fuss over digital zoom, however, you should ignore it should you encounter this spec.
It is really helpful but i would suggest to add some information ISO , Shutter speed and other characteristics related to camera. can add information about what are all point and shoot camera can and cant do. this would help one to select the point and shoot camera or go for SLR. it just says that it cant shoot moving object nothing else. Anyway it helped me understanding the MP and zoom.
For those interested recently purchased a new canon camera and a few accessories through this website which has just about every Canon camera and accessories for some pretty cheap prices. canoncameraparts.
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Like cars, there are a ton of choices, but nailing one down that’s right for you is another challenge, especially if you’re buying one online or from a big box store with less than helpful clerks. Whether you are looking to buy an entry level point-and-shoot for your kids or the top-of-the-line digital SLR with the latest bells and whistles for yourself, it’s definitely not a one-model-fits-all kind of decision. Within this huge crop of available models you’ll find digicams in all types, shapes, sizes, and colors, with prices ranging anywhere from $79 on up to a whopping $7,999.
It’s in your best interest to do a little research to find out exactly what you are looking for. It can be daunting, but never fear: Our ultimate digital camera shopping guide will help point you in the right direction. Designed for new camera buyers and those looking to step up to an advanced model, we’ve broken this guide down to the questions most-often asked by consumers.
What type of camera should I buy? In general, there are three types of digital cameras: compact/point and shoot, mirrorless interchangeable lens/compact interchangeable lens (MILC or CILC), and digital SLRs (DSLRs). (There are other specialty cameras, but most consumers should concentrate on these three.) The good news: Everything falls more easily into place once this key question is answered as it narrows down your choices quite a bit.
Point-and-shoot cameras run the gamut: they can be compact shooters that are affordable, simple to use, and pocketsize portable, or more robust pro models with longer zooms or advanced shooting options.
Some good entry-level point-and-shoots can be had for in the $99-$130 range. Key features to look for are optical zoom and stabilization, fast shutter speeds, and HD video. Popular models in this category include the Olympus VR-340 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W710.
Compact megazooms and standard megazooms start at $200 and can go up to $500 or more. Compact megaszooms offer wide-angle lenses with long zooms, giving you a lot of shooting flexibility, but without the bulk of larger DSLR-style standard megazooms. The bigger and more expensive megazoooms, also known as bridge models, offer longer lenses and are full-featured models with DSLR-style bodies; but many still have the shooting performance and photo quality of a compact camera. Models to look at in this space include the Samsung WB250F Smart Camera, Canon PowerShot SX50 HS, Olympus XZ-2, and Samsung EX2F.
This category of cameras offers superior image quality, more creative options, and faster performance than point-and-shoots, but they also come with a higher price tag.
When we used to talk about interchangeable lens cameras, it meant one thing: DSLR. But the category in itself has grown into several distinct categories: traditional DSLRs; Sony’s fixed translucent-mirror models; and MILC models that completely omit the mirror box and optical viewfinder, allowing for a smaller and lightweight design – not to mention a blend of ease-of-use and advanced shooting. (To make things slightly more confusing, the mirrorless category can also refer to Micro Four Thirds with models from Olympus and Panasonic.)
All of these ILC cameras allow you to attach a huge variety of lenses that range from short to long telefoto zoom lenses for far away subjects (click here to read more about interchangeable lenses). Prices for MILC models start at $499 and can go up to $999. The Sony Alpha NEX-F3 is a good choice for entry-level foray into this category, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 is perfect for shooters looking to step up their photo skills. Meanwhile, Ashton Kutcher’s commercials and the camera’s whiter shade of pale sleek design have helped make the Nikon 1 a star in this arena. As for DSLRs, keep reading.
Photographers who want to take full creative control over their images should consider a DSLR. These models offer the advanced features that experienced shooters need, and all of them are compatible with a wide range of interchangeable lenses and accessories. They are more expensive, with prices beginning at about $600 for the body only. If you’re new to this type of camera, an ideal point to start your shopping is with the Canon Rebel T3i, Nikon D3200, Pentax K-30, or Sony Alpha 65. For those looking for a higher end prosumer models, check out the Nikon D700, Canon 60D, or Pentax K-5.
Ideally, you don’t have to spend a fortune to find the camera that is right for you. Many models that are priced higher are loaded with features that you might not use, so leave them to the pros. According to industry analysts, the vast majority of cameras sold range in the ballpark of $200-300. Making the leap to a DSLR will definitely set you back more, but investment will be well worth it if you are into this hobby for the long haul.
If you’ve ever used a compact digicam, you know that these devices take time to focus and save images to memory cards. During these delays, you can easily miss a smiling face or a running child. There are two things to consider. One is the time that elapses between the moment you press the shutter and the moment the camera takes the picture – this is called shutter lag. This had been a major differentiating factor between different camera models, but in recent years shutter lag has grown shorter and the gap between cameras has narrowed quite a bit.
The other camera delay problem is the time the camera needs to get ready between shots. If you are taking candid shots of your kids, a slow camera will definitely mean missed shots. These speeds can vary significantly from camera to camera. To put things in perspective: An average point-and-shoot digital camera generally captures 1-2 frames per second (fps), while many top-of-the-line DSLRs such as Canon’s EOS-1D X, take 12-14 fps, making them ideally suited for fast action shots or sporting events.
Ergonomics is another key element. Try before you buy. Make sure it fits comfortably in your hand and that it’s not so big or bulky. The camera you buy should offer quick accessibility to the most commonly used functions, and menus should be simply structured, logical, and easy to learn. Touch-screen models can allow for greater functionality, but at the same time can be frustrating if the controls and menus are poorly organized or the screen can’t be calibrated to your touch.
It might also be a good idea to purchase your camera from your local photo retailer and getting all your questions answered in person from a knowledgeable source rather than simply going to Google and looking for the cheapest deal online.
If you simply read camera spec sheets, you’ll see that point-and-shoots and DSLRs in some cases have similar megapixel counts (16MP, 18MP, and so on). However, this is like saying a Ford Focus is the same as a Lamborghini – while both may be cars with four wheels, overall performance and quality between the two are very different. The same holds true with point-and-shoot digital cameras versus DSLRs. Compact cameras use much smaller imaging sensors. Although most cameras with small sensors will do a good job for things like sharing online or small prints, by cramming so many megapixels on a small chip, digital noise can be a problem. DSLRs have much larger imagers, meaning you’ll encounter less noise in low light situations and better picture quality overall. Using one, you can shoot in more dimly lit conditions without a flash, with less image degradation. In addition, if huge prints are in your future – or extensive cropping – interchangeable lens models should be in your focal point.
In short, don’t judge a camera solely its megapixel count. The physical size and quality of the image sensor along with the corresponding optics play a much bigger role in image quality than megapixels alone, so don’t be fooled into thinking more megapixels will produce better photographs. A small sensor allows a camera to be compact and portable, but you sacrifice a bit in image quality for the convenience. DSLRs with larger sensors take better photos, but even the most compact DSLRs are bulky. Hence the growing popularity of MILCs: they use larger sensors, but are smaller in size than a DSLR.
The megapixel count matters if you’re looking to print or crop large images, but, as we’ve said, that has nothing to do with the quality of the image itself (see image).
See our guide on image sensors for a closer look, as well as how to determine a camera’s sensor size. If you’re looking to print large images, we have a guide for you, as well.
There are several attributes that differentiate a camera from good to great, and one of them is optics, or the lens. As advanced as the internal components may be, a camera is nothing without its glass eye. As we’ve mentioned, the appeal of an interchangeable lens camera is just that: they not only let you tailor your system to meet your photography needs but also give you more shooting options. While some point-and-shoot cameras on the high-end have very good optics, they can’t compete with the versatility of interchangeable lenses.
Most interchangeable lens models are typically sold with a basic 18-55mm lens, called a kit lens. From there you can go crazy, spending a small fortune on a variety of interchangeable lenses: wide angle, super telephoto, and macro, to name a few. Nikon, Canon, and Sony are well known for their lens quality, but other manufacturers often include equally high-quality lenses from respected lens suppliers such as Leica, Carl Zeiss, or Schneider-Kreuznach. These lenses use finer glass than point-and-shoots, adding to overall quality advantage of DSLRs and mirrorless models.
Note that, despite the name, not all lenses are interchangeable with any camera. For example, Canon lenses are designed to work with Canon cameras, and not Nikon or Sony. While there are third-party mounting adapters available, a Nikon camera won’t be able to utilize the features of a Canon lens, like image stabilization.
Like megapixels, manufacturers frequently throw around big numbers relating to digital zoom. And like megapixels, you should ignore them. Optical zoom uses real optics to get you closer to your subject, while digital zoom merely takes the same amount of pixels you would have in a standard shot and blows them up to fill the frame. The camera captures no more detail. It’s the same zooming or cropping trick you could pull in Photoshop, done in the camera on the fly. While that can sometimes be handy, image quality suffers severely as a result, and most photographers would never use digital zoom. In recent years, fewer and fewer manufacturers are making a fuss over digital zoom, however, you should ignore it should you encounter this spec.
It is really helpful but i would suggest to add some information ISO , Shutter speed and other characteristics related to camera. can add information about what are all point and shoot camera can and cant do. this would help one to select the point and shoot camera or go for SLR. it just says that it cant shoot moving object nothing else. Anyway it helped me understanding the MP and zoom.
For those interested recently purchased a new canon camera and a few accessories through this website which has just about every Canon camera and accessories for some pretty cheap prices. canoncameraparts.
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