Digital Cameras – Compact v SLR – How to Make the Right Choice
Many people are far more familiar with compact digital cameras than SLR digital cameras since these models have flooded the marketplace.
Almost as common as cellphones, it is not unusual to see someone with a compact digital camera every time you walk down the street. Until recently, it was rare to see a digital SLR camera unless it was in the hands of a professional.
Thankfully, the cost of the digital SLR’s has now fallen to such a degree that some are now around the same price as a top quality compact camera. This has opened up a whole new market although many people are unaware of what these SLR’s can do.
A key advantage of a digital SLR is speed when compared to a compact. The simple reason for the greater SLR speed is it’s mechanical operation whereas a compact uses electronics for the same function.
There’s a device called a shutter that sits in front of the digital SLR sensor, blocking it from light.When you take a photo, the shutter (made up of two curtains) opens and closes.
By comparison, a compact camera has no physical shutter mechanism but rather it’s sensor is activated electronically whenever you take a picture.
The mechanical shutter has a massive advantage because there is no time lag between you pressing the button and the shutter opening to take the snap, it is instant, unlike with compact cameras where there is a significant delay between the two actions – and how many times has that delay meant you’ve missed the perfect shot?
There is now much more choice in digital SLR cameras as major suppliers like Canon, Nikon, Olympus etc. bring better, ever more functional cameras to the market place, that it is no easy matter picking the right SLR for you.
When you come to chose which SLR is right for you, make a list of all the things you think you want to photograph then do your homework on which cameras have the functionality to let you do this. Read up on any guide books or testimonials you can find for the cameras on your shortlist. Now, and only now, should you start to compare prices on the few that are left, also look out for any package deals that may be available and go strike yourself a deal.
What I like so much about picking a digital SLR camera using these steps is that no salesperson will be able to sell you more camera than you want or need, you’ll only have to compare prices for a few cameras’, you’ll be confident you’ve made the best choice when you go to buy your new camera, you won’t regret your purchase and you’ll have a great SLR that will last you for years to come.
My personal recommendation is to look at the series of Canon Rebel digital cameras. Check out any bestsellers list and they are usually at the top for styling, functionality and value for money.
Tags: Cameras, Digital Cameras, electronics, hobbies, lifestyle, Photography, product reviews, shopping, technology Posted in


Leave a Reply