Thursday, 30 September 2010

Info Regarding the Best Digital SLR Cameras


SLR stands for Digital Single lens Reflex. An SLR camera's viewfinder has the capability to have direct light during shoots. The location of the mirror inside the digital camera enables such a feature. This process enables the viewfinder to create pentaprism. Pentaprism aids in placing the image in the right angle on your screen. The best digital SLR camera would help you in finding the right angle for you.

What's best about digital SLRs?

SLR digital cameras have an extensive scope of focal length of lens. This means that you would not need to buy costly lenses required for different kinds of photography. A lot of photo enthusiasts find the SLR cameras as the best digital cameras. The mentioned feature of SLRs allows photographers to stick to a single lens which results to speedier work.

The high-end models of digital SLRs are equipped with a Live view mode. With the use of LCD, you can put together your images. Prism will redirect the image to small sensor that delivers to the camera's LCD. And because SLRs have contrast autofocus, manual focusing won't be a need.

What are the kinds of digital SLRs?

There are three kinds of digital SLR.

1.Interchangeable-lens full system digital SLR- With this kind, you have the option to buy and change your lenses the way you like it. You can get a supertelefoto or super bid angle. It depends on your pocket and your usage. You must remember that brands must go together. The brand of your camera should also be the brand of the lenses you would purchase. The Nikon D300 is just one brand for this kind of digital SLR

2.Fixed lens digital - The lenses of these SLRs are permanent. The adaptability is also limited. However, you can be sure that this digital camera will be dust free forever. You can add some gadgets like a non-moving mirror to enable your viewfinder to get some light thru a sensor. The Olympus E-20N carries this kind of fixed lens digital SLR camera.

3.SLR-like or SLR-style- This is the normal digital camera that uses an electronic viewfinder (EVF) that is usually a small LCD in lieu of the pentaprism of SLRs. One of the feature of this style is the tremendous long zoom lenses that are often referred to as megazooms. The Canon PowerShot S51S is one brand that carries this type of camera.








Getting the perfect camera, is never an easy thing, especially with the way digital technology is constantly changing. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful websites online, that can narrow down your search and help you find the camera with all the features important to you.


Wednesday, 29 September 2010

Move Up to the World of the Digital SLR Camera


A digital SLR camera or a single lens reflex (SLR) camera is one of the most popular cameras amongst photographers today. These cameras not only provide high quality images but the photographer can also largely control how he wants the final product to look like. Hence, people who are extremely fond of clicking pictures have a great time while using a SLR camera. If you have a creative spark in you then you will want to consider one of these at some point. I am using a Canon Rebel right now but the Nikon F6 is next on my horizon of my purchases. These are moving into the 8 mp and up range now so the quality is quite good.

The SLR is not cheap at all. The price historically started at about $5,000 - which is very steep. So, only those who are either professionals or wannabes purchased an SLR for themselves. Nowadays however, in order to make the SLR available to a larger number of photographers, companies such as Canon and Nikon have come up with SLRs falling in the price range of around $1000 without extra lenses.

What is it that attracts people to an SLR? One of the main reasons is that an SLR produces pictures which are of much higher quality than point-and-shoot cameras. The contrast and color are extremely good since the lenses used in an SLR are of very good quality. It is an old maxim in the photography world that much of the quality in your images comes from the glass you put in front of the camera. The better the glass the better the photo, it worked in the film days and it still works in the digital age. The camera is important but don't skimp on the lens.

The photographer can change the lenses in an SLR, depending upon the shot that he/she plans to take. For example, a wide angle lens is used to take pictures of landscapes such as animals in the wild while telephoto lenses help to take extremely detailed pictures of small objects. Thus, one can pick and choose according to the environmental needs. Today some of the manufacturers have started building in image stabilization to their lenses. This really helps when taking long focal length images. While it uses additional power it can be extremely useful.

In addition to the above, the creative opportunity available to the photographer is much more in a SLR than a regular camera. This is because of the fact that a SLR has a lower contrast and image sharpening features. Hence, the photographer can do a lot of editing on his own to get the kind of effect that he desires. This can be viewed as a disadvantage as well by those who are not truly photo enthusiasts. So, for you guys, a point-and-shoot camera is the best option as not only is it cheaper but also adjusts things automatically.

Since a SLR is comparitvely more expensive than other digital cameras, it is very important that you get yourself a proper insurance for the camera. Especially if you plan to travel a lot with your SLR, insurance is extremely important. And also make sure that damage protection does form a part of the insurance deal as some insurance policies do not provide it. So, read the fine print before signing on the dotted line!








Kevin Rockwell worked as a network TV cameraman for 20 years shooting news and sports. Now a devoted fan of digital photography and video he works to gather information, tips and news for digital camera users. Oh and he loves to shoot pictures of his kids playing sports.

(http://www.greatdigitalcameras.info)


Are You Planning To Buy Sony Or Canon Digital SLR Cameras? Are They Good?


SLR Means Single Lens Reflex. That is a single lens is used viewing and as well as taking pictures. A mirror is fixed which will direct the light from the lens to the prism for viewing. There is an elctronic sensor behind the shutter in a SLR system.

This SLR digital cameras are made from the base design of Konica/Minolta SLR system. This type of Sony cameras are best suited for photographers with autofocus lenses. They are also best suited for hobbyist and

professionals.

Different types of SLR cameras

1. Big lenses with big sensor

2. Big lenses with small sensor

3. Small lenses with small sensor

Types of Sony SLR Cameras

The first DSLR in Sony Alpha Series is SOny Alpha A100. This is slightly heavier which has a CCS Sensor, Autofocus, LCD screen and more. The other types are Sony Alpha A200, Sony Alpha A250, A350 and so on.

Other Features in Sony SLR Cameras

Other special features in this Sony SLR cameras are it can be used to focus an individual among a group of people. This is done with a special object a speical pen using which it can be used to focus and take the picture of a particular person.

For example if in a party you would like to take pictures of your mom and dad among a group of people then this is possible with Sony SLR cameras by using this focussing technique. It will take only the desginated person. Even you can set the camera to take the picture of the person when he smiles.

The smiling range also varies from slight to high. This feature is named as Smile Shutter. The advantage of this feature there is no wastage of shots and hence you can save your precious time.

Sony Cyber-shot Cameras

The new sony cyber-shot cameras comes with a high quality 24mm-120mm zoom lens. The lenses are designed in such a way that it reduces chromatic aberration.

It also protects lens from dust, scratching or damaging the sensor due to lens changes. There is no need to change the lens for different shots. It also allows to take photos horizontal, vertical, high or low angles or upto waist height and so on.

Sensor bodies of sony cameras

Usually the sensor bodies of sony cameras are small and hence compatible photos can be taken with the compatible lenses and it also reduces camera shake.

Buying Canon SLR Cameras

Canon is the strongest competitor in the digital SLR market. This is because of their big lenses and small sensor options. Some of the recommended digital SLR cameras are

1. Canon Digital Rebel XTi

2. Canon EOS 30D

Check the prices before you buy

Have a look at the prices of the SLR cameras. The prices for digital slr cameras start from range from 800$ to 5000$ which are quite higher. Canon and Nikon are coming out for cheaper prices that are affordable. It may range from 1000$ but without additional lenses. Always check in the internet for latest prices before you buy. You will surely find good bargains in many websites








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Tuesday, 28 September 2010

Should You Buy a Digital SLR Camera Or a Point and Shoot Camera?


Digital SLR cameras are becoming more and more popular each day. This is partly due to a decrease in prices. User friendly models are also hitting the market which makes it appealing for the average photographer to consider investing in one.

With their rise in popularity, one question becomes evident. Should You Buy A Digital SLR Camera Or A Point And Shoot Camera?

This article will focus on some of the differences between the two. The answer ultimately lies with your photography needs.

Digital SLR camera strengths:

Speed: SLR cameras are generally fast devices. What this means for you is fast start up times and less shutter lag.

Versatility: An advantage that SLR cameras hold over point and shoot cameras is their versatility. There is much more freedom for the photographer to adapt to his or her environment.

Controls: With SLR cameras, the photographer is given more control over his or her work. Manual controls are easily accessible as opposed to relying on just auto mode.

These are a few of the strengths associated with Digital SLR cameras. We will now divert our attention to point and shoot cameras.

Point and shoot camera strengths:

Price: While DSLR cameras are going down in price, they still can't compare to the lower prices offered by point and shoot cameras.

Size: Point and shoot cameras come in all shapes and sizes. The more popular ones are generally compact and easy to carry around. SLR Cameras on the other hand are large and bulky.

Less control over images: This can be a good or bad thing depending on your needs. Generally speaking most stick to auto mode when using point and shoot cameras. The end result is still of good quality. If you prefer to tinker around with your settings then this can be viewed as a negative.

Portable: directly related to size, point and shoot cameras are  easy to carry around. There isn't much that is required when taking pictures aside from the camera itself. DSLR on the other hand is not only quite bulky, but you also need to carry the lenses that you plan on using.

Whichever camera you decide to purchase depends on your needs as a photographer. If price is an issue consider looking into point and shoot. For more freedom with your shots look into Digital SLR cameras. If the image quality of your work is of importance then Digital SLR cameras are your solution. Be sure to look into both, and analyze the pros and cons based on your needs.








For news and reviews on digital cameras Visit Buy Latest Digital Cameras Each consumer is different be sure to do plenty of research before taking the plunge on your digital camera purchase.


Monday, 27 September 2010

Nikon School presents A Hands-on Guide to Creative Lighting

Nikon School presents A Hands-on Guide to Creative Lighting
In "A Hands-on Guide to Creative Lighting", Bob Krist is joined by world- renowned photojournalist and lighting expert Joe McNally for a tour of lighting fundamentals and techniques in the studio and in a variety of real world shooting scenarios from the Boston Ballet School, to the charm of Gloucester Massachusetts. A Nikon School DVD (Running time: Full 2-1/2 Hours)

Learn how to make light work for you with the power and versatility of the Nikon Creative Lighting System, featuring the SB-900, SB-800, SB-600 and SB-R200. Nikon Speedlights deliver the ability to turn an ordinary subject into a striking image or even into a stunning work of art.

Price: $39.95


Click here to buy from Amazon

Olympus BLM-01 Lithium-ion Rechargeable Battery for C7070, C8080, E1, E300 & E500 Digital Cameras

Olympus BLM-01 Lithium-ion Rechargeable Battery for C7070, C8080, E1, E300 & E500 Digital CamerasMODEL- 260205 VENDOR- OLYMPUS AMERICA

FEATURES- Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery (BLM-01)
For long trips or vacations, make sure to take an extra battery
along for the ride!
The BLM-01 Rechargeable Li-Ion battery is a replacement for the
battery that comes with the C-5060, C-8080 Wide Zoom and E-1.
The Lithium Ion battery is rated at 1500mAh providing hundreds of
shots between charges.
olympus.com

Price: $89.99


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Sunday, 26 September 2010

The Traits of the Best SLR Camera


Finding the best SLR camera all depends on a lot of different factors. First of all, you need to know all about an SLR camera and what it is. SLR stands for "single-lens reflex" and basically means a camera that uses a mirror that runs semi-automatically to let the person shooting see exactly what the picture they are taking looks like. This is unlike the pre-SLR cameras that only let the people see the light meters, and not the way the photograph looks like when they are taking it. An SLR also has only one source of light, which is the lens, as opposed to the other cameras of the past that had two sources of light.

Finding the best SLR is harder today, seeing as there are more models that are more affordable as well as easier to use. Here are a few tips on how you can choose which would be the best SLR camera for you:

Price - there are many different cameras on the market and these range from modest to exorbitant prices. The price that you are willing to pay says a lot about the kind of camera you should buy. Also, this will determine the kinds of other add-ons that you will also purchase, such as various lenses, bigger memory cards, bags, etc. The best SLR is that which fits your budget perfectly.
The use - you need to determine what you will be using it for. If you just want to be able to take beautiful photos as a hobby, then there is no need for the professional models. There are many SLRs out there that are really aimed at hobbyists and other non-professional photographers. The best SLR for you will depend on your intended use.
Resolution - while there are a lot more that determine what makes an SLR the "best," the resolution is the most common question that is asked. Getting a camera with more megapixels will require more money and may be able to give you clearer pictures, but remember that the best SLR camera is nothing if you will not even try to learn how to use it properly.
Size - as was previously mentioned, there are now more models of SLRs than ever before. The non-professional ones are more likely to be lighter, seeing as the size is smaller. Getting this might be the best SLR choice you can make. But even so, top manufacturers like Canon are now coming out with professional cameras with titanium bodies, so as to assure the user that the user's wrists are safe and that they will not have to deal with getting too tired before they even finish shooting.

These are just some of the things that you must look for when finding the best SLR camera for you. Remember, there are many advantages to switching to an SLR from point-and-shoot cameras. Aside from the superior image quality, there is also the adaptability of the camera, the large ISO range which gives you the option to shoot beautiful photos in dark places, and so much more. Take all of these things into consideration when buying the best SLR camera for you.








Visit my site for more information on choosing the best SLR for you, and a selection of the best SLR cameras for sale.


The Story Behind the Canon SLR Camera


Now for those of you who don't know what SLR stands for, well the abbreviation stands for single reflex lens. The 35mm canon camera graduated to the rangefinder ones and then to the canon SLR cameras. The first SLR camera which was launched by this world renowned company was the Canon Flex camera. Now there was advancement when it came to the lenses of these cameras too. They advanced from the "R" series to your "Fl" series.

Now knowing about the story of the Canon SLR camera is quite interesting. Now the entire concept of the 35 mm canon camera started with a heated discussion about whether to keep manufacturing high end cameras or to also shift to the lower market where ordinary consumers could also purchase cameras like this.

Now the debate ended with the company manufacturing its camera range which was quite affordable. Hence this led to the birth of the 35 mm camera which was called the Canonet.

Now the Canonet was followed by the 8mm cine camera which was called the Canon Cine 8T in 1956. This camera had the zoom lens and the magnification value of 4 but then the disadvantage was its huge size. Now the company kept trying to improve the standards of this 8mm camera for quite sometime. Now this camera was succeeded by the 35mm Canon SLR cameras.

The first SLR camera was brought out in 1959. The first series for this camera which was developed by the company was the R series. Every SLR camera which used the lens which was of the r series was known as the R series Canon SLR camera. The Canoflex was the first Canon SLR camera introduced which was followed by the R2000 series and the Canoflex RM.

Now this camera consisted of a exposure meter which was in built and also had the film "advanced" system which had a lever which was recessed rather than the usual triggers. This was done to improve upon the cameras operability. Now the R series had very good characteristics when it came to the lenses but then there were certain errors in the costs and the future developments (technical) and thus this series need a makeover.

Thus came in the FL series. Now this series had fluorite inside the super telephoto lenses which helped in reducing the amount of chromatic aberrations (chromatic). But then the crystals weren't large enough for being applied practically. So artificial crystals were used instead of the real ones. SP lenses like FL300mm and the FL500mm lenses. Over time the company keeps changing the quality of the lenses and getting even more technologically advanced models for the Canon SLR cameras.








Joey McKenzie is a free lance photographer. Come visit his latest website over at http://www.canoncameradigitals.com/ which helps people find the best canon camera digital and information they are looking for when buying canon digital camera.


Saturday, 25 September 2010

Introduction to the Canon 5D Mark II/50D, Vol. 2: Advanced Topics

Introduction to the Canon 5D Mark II/50D, Vol. 2: Advanced TopicsTake great pictures with your Canon 5D Mark II or 50D! Push your creativity to the limits; create photographic images that up until now have existed only in your imagination! This guide takes you through Canon's advanced features, and explains what they are, how they work, and how they can perform in real-world situations.
Custom Functions: The 5D and the 50D are endlessly configurable. We go into detail about the settings that can have the most impact on your shooting. We also address the topics of Live View, and the 5D's video capabilities. Canon Speedlites and flash photography: We discuss choices and settings you can use to control pop-up Speedlites, external flash units, and natural lighting. Color properties and settings: You will learn how to control color properties, and how to build new Picture Styles for your camera. In our color management section, we address the issue of maintaining authentic color throughout the digital image workflow, from choosing a color space, through post processing on a computer monitor, all the way to the printed output. The Canon 5D and 50D are known for their limitless flexibility. We take these marvelous cameras into the real world and tie their settings and configurations to the subject, the physical environment, and the equipment you are carrying. By the time you finish watching this presentation, you will have the know-how that allows you to concentrate on the most important task of all: capturing the image you want, the way you see it.

Price: $29.99


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GiSTEQ C7-02PLUSN-01 Lightweight Phototrackr Plus for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras, Built-in Memory, Geotag JPEG and RAW Files

GiSTEQ C7-02PLUSN-01 Lightweight Phototrackr Plus for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras, Built-in Memory, Geotag JPEG and RAW FilesThe GiSTEQ C7-02PLUSN-01 PhotoTrackr Plus is a photo geotagging solution that is specifically for Nikon digital SLR cameras. You can use this lightweight device to geotag your JPEG or RAW files as you shoot. Because the PhotoTrackr Plus has built-in memory it is capable of geotagging photos with the last known location if a satellite fix is not available.PhotoTrackr Plus brings convenience to the geotagging process with its built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery and it will not affect your photo processing work-flow. Adding PhotoTrackr Plus to your camera is the easiest way to turn your Nikon DSLR into a GPS camera and no software is needed.Photo Geotagging is the process of adding geographical identification metadata to photographs. These data usually consist of latitude and longitude coordinates, as well as altitude and place names. Photo Geocoding refers to the process of adding non-coordinate based geographical identifiers, such as a street address, to the photographs.

Price:


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Nikon GP-1 GPS Unit for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

Nikon GP-1 GPS Unit for Nikon Digital SLR CamerasGeotag (image positioning information of pictures such as latitude, longitude [Geodetic System WGS84]) can be added to the image.

Correlation between pictures and maps is supported by GPS function in conjunction with ViewNX version 1.2 software (no-charge download) and my Picturetown.

Price: $265.00


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Introduction to the Nikon D80 Digital SLR

Introduction to the Nikon D80 Digital SLR
To take great pictures with your Nikon D80, all you need is this training DVD and about 93 minutes, and you’ll have the knowledge and the confidence to create the images you want. The topics are arranged in chapters, so you can move at your own pace, and return later to individual subjects.

If you have just purchased your Nikon D80, the controls on the outside of the camera coupled with all the menus and custom settings can be downright overwhelming. This DVD gives you a structure for looking at the controls as well as a repeatable ritual for taking great photos with your new camera, as an extension of your hands rather than a struggle.

The Nikon D80 is a powerful piece of equipment. A solid understanding of its features and controls can really unleash its potential. Once you learn how the camera’s components work together, you’ll have all the tools you need to capture the best image under all conditions.

Topics include:
  • Be Prepared (To Get the Shot)
  • Shutter Priority
  • Aperture Priority/Depth of Field
  • Focus Alternatives
  • Metering and Bracketing
  • White Balance/Color Temperature
  • ISO
  • Playback Options / Image Review
  • Understanding Histograms
  • Exposure Compensation
  • Flash Overview
  • Custom Settings
  • Tripods and Telephoto Lenses
  • Programmable Buttons
  • RAW (NEF) Files
  • Composition
  • My Menus
  • And much more...
Running time: 93 minutes

Price: $24.95


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Introduction to the Nikon D90, Vol. 1: Basic Controls

Why You Should Read Digital SLR Camera Reviews


If you're interested in getting a digital SLR camera but are not familiar with the technical specs and features of an SLR, it would do you a lot of good to consult digital SLR camera reviews and guides. Reviews and guides will walk you through the essential features of specific camera models to help you determine which one suits your needs and preferences.

Depending on your level of knowledge on SLR cameras and photography, you will find that many of the reviews out there contain terms and phrases that may not be familiar to you. You have terms like ISO, frames per second, dynamic range, etc. See, a lot of digital SLR camera reviews out there already assume that the readers are familiar with the processes involved in using an SLR. So more often than not, these reviews will use the technical specs and features of cameras to describe the good and bad points of a specific camera model. But if you're an amateur photographer and is really more of a hobbyist, it's important to first be able to break down the details and know the basic terms and concepts used in describing digital SLR cameras.

Not to worry, there are digital SLR camera reviews and guides out there that cater to beginners and non-technical users of digital SLR cameras. What these reviews and guides do is provide the readers with information and user opinion that is understandable to beginners and amateurs. If you already have specific models in mind, you can just go to photography and camera review sites to look for guides on your chosen digital SLR camera model.

You will find guides and reviews for popular dSLR camera models such as Nikon D90, D60, and D80, Canon 40D, Rebel XSi, and Rebel xTi. There are also reviews for Pentax, Olympus, and Sony dSLR models such as Pentax K20D, Olympus E-10, and Sony DSLR - A350. These non-technical SLR camera guides usually contains basic information on how a camera works and how you can optimize and maximize your use of a specific camera model's specs and features. As mentioned, these are non-technical guides which are easily understandable to first-time SLR camera buyers and beginners.

Another reason why it will do you good to check out digital SLR camera reviews is that you get opinions and suggestions on what the best deal for your money is. Most camera reviews contain price and feature comparisons between camera models to help you make an informed decision before you go and purchase an SLR camera of your own.








Getting the perfect camera, is never an easy thing, especially with the way digital technology is constantly changing. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful websites online, that can narrow down your search and help you find the camera with all the features important to you.


Nikon ML-L3 Wireless Remote Control for Nikon D40, D40x, D60, D80 & D90 Digital SLR Cameras

Nikon ML-L3 Wireless Remote Control for Nikon D40, D40x, D60, D80 & D90 Digital SLR Cameras
MODEL- 4730 VENDOR- NIKON INC

FEATURES- ML-L3 Remote Control Transmitter
Trigger the shutter remotely when using slower shutter speeds to
prevent camera movement.
Offers immediate release mode and two second delay mode.
Range aproximately 16 feet in front of camera.
Compatible with N65 N75 D70 D70s and D50 Cameras.


MANUFACTURER WARRANTY:  1 YEAR

Price: $38.64


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Pentax K-x - Digital camera - SLR - 12.4 Mpix - PENTAX-DA 18-55mm and 50-200mm lenses - optical zoom: 3 x - supported memory: SD, SDHC - black

Pentax K-x - Digital camera - SLR - 12.4 Mpix - PENTAX-DA 18-55mm and 50-200mm lenses - optical zoom: 3 x - supported memory: SD, SDHC - blackThe K-x camera design is a compact, lightweight body and simple, user-friendly operations. With the addition of a newly designed CMOS image sensor and an upgraded high-performance imaging engine, the K-x offers outstanding photographic performance at nearly the same level as upper-class models. This includes high-resolution, fine-detailed images delivered by approximately 12.4 effective megapixels, super-high-sensitivity photography and high-speed continuous shooting. The K-x also features an array of advanced functions, including Live View shooting and movie recording. It also provides a pair of handy functions designed to produce highly personalized images with great ease: an upgraded digital filter function to accommodate more sophisticated image processing, and a new cross process mode to produce unexpected, eye-catching finishing touches with unique, intriguing colors. The K-x is not only the perfect camera for first-time digital SLR camera users, but also serves as the ideal backup camera for more experienced photographers. True HDR image capture blends 3 bracketed images into a single picture with outstanding shadow, highlight, and midrange detail Responsive 11 point wide angle SAFOX VIII autofocus system focuses quickly and accurately, and can easily track moving subjects Expanded ISO range covers sensitivities from 100-12800 for extreme low light photography Capture up to 1900 shots with easy-to-find AA lithium batteries Specifications Effective Pixels - approx. 12.4 megapixels Image Sensor - CMOS with a primary color filter Lens Mount - PENTAX KAF2 bayonet mount Monitor - 2.7 TFT color LCD Live View - TTL by Image Sensor Viewfinder - Fixed molded penta-mirror type Storage Media - SD memory card , SDHC memory card Image Formats - JPEG, RAW (12bit) (PEF, DNG), RAW+JPEG File Size - Up to JPEG or RAW - (12M) 4288x28; Movie - (0.9M) 1280x720,

Price:


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What is a Digital SLR Camera and How Does it Compare With a Digital Compact Camera?

What is a Digital SLR Camera


The term digital SLR stands for single lens reflex. It is so called because the SLR cameras use a mirror that is placed behind the lens.


Although SLR cameras for capturing still images have been in use for quite some time, those that could capture both the stills and the videos were introduced in 2008.


Earlier the SLRs were used only by the professionals. They were not very common and were costly as well. The good news is that the digital SLRs are becoming cheaper as the time passes and coming within the easy reach of even the amateur photographers. You can buy an SLR at the price of a high end digital compact camera.


How does the digital SLR work?


When the light enters through the lens, it falls upon the mirror. The mirror, in turn, reflects (throws) the light upon the focusing screen. The light passing through the focusing screen falls upon a block of glass called pentaprism, which reflects the image that can be seen on the viewfinder. When you take a photo, the mirror flips up opening the shutter which exposes the digital sensor to light.


What- you- see- is- what- you- get photos


The SLR uses the viewfinder to compose the photo and adjust the focus. You can, thus, get the photo of the original as you see it on the lens.


SLR camera allows for a wide range of lenses with different focal lengths. You can change the lens whenever you like. This is what makes the SLR ideal for serious photography. Moreover, the image sensors of the digital SLRs are large and produce high quality photos.


Lightness and compactness vs. versatility and image quality


An attractive feature of the digital compact cameras is that they are cheap, light, compact and easily portable. You can just pop in the compact camera in your purse or pocket.


The SLRs are weighty and voluminous. Some of them are tank-sized for professionals. But they provide the invaluable advantage of accommodating a large range of lenses and accessories that were originally designed for film SLR cameras.


Of late, new generation light weight ultra compact DSLRs have also been introduced in the market. They have small lens and weigh around 20 oz / 0.5 Kg.


While the crispness and sharpness of the photos taken with the digital compact camera and SLR camera in broad day is by and large same, the SLR scores over the compact camera when you have to shoot in dim light or capture the fast running scenes of actions. This is because the SLRs have high sensitivity larger sensors.


Anti shake/vibration designs


The photos shot with non-SLR cameras in dim light or with long telephoto lenses may be blurred. The reason is that the camera gets shaken during the exposure. The SLRs are equipped with Image Stabilization (IS) systems that protect them from the impact of motion during exposure. Therefore, the photos shot with SLRs even in dim light or at long focal lengths are sharp and excellent.


Speed


What makes the SLR much superior to the compact camera is its speed in taking pictures, which makes it ideal for action photography as there is a zero lag time. Even the entry level SLRs shoot faster than the best compact cameras. So you can easily shoot both a sleeping and a running tiger with this camera.


Dust Removal mechanism


If you have to shoot in arid, dusty or even in humid and damp conditions, no camera can beat an SLR. They have inbuilt dust removal systems that keep the sensor clean. They have weatherproof seals and solid magnesium alloy cases.


High Definition (HD) videos for HDTVs


This is another advantage of SLRs over the compact cameras. They can shoot High Definition videos. They come equipped with HDMI ports which allow the camera to be directly connected to the TVs. You can view your videos on the TV.


So which camera should you buy?


It all depends upon your needs. If you want speed, exquisite professional looking photos even in dim light and more control over the photos and are not bothered about weight and volume, go for an SLR. If you are just an occasional photographer wishing to carry the camera in your pant pocket, you can buy a compact camera.


Please visit my Best Digital Cameras Guide to learn more about digital cameras and photography.