Choosing a digital camera

Some cameras are primarily for still photos while others have HD video recording capabilities. Some cameras have sensors that record 10 megapixels (MP) and others have sensors that record 24 MP. A common question is, “What is the difference between all of these cameras?” Another question is simply, “Which camera is right for me?” The answer to the second question really depends on what types of photos you want to take and how easy you want it to be to take them.

The two types of cameras

There are two main types of digital cameras: point and shoot cameras and Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras. The second type of camera is usually more advanced. A few of the main differences are shown below.

Most consumers opt for a point and shoot camera. Advantages they have over DSLRs is that they are much smaller, lighter and generally cheaper.

Camera Settings

It can be easy to take a photo on both types of cameras due to an automatic setting that are very accurate. In addition to an automatic setting, both types of cameras should have scene settings. These settings are designed to tell the camera to take a portrait photo or to take a photo where the sun is behind the subjects. Still, a DSLR camera will usually offer more options so that the photographer can choose exactly how the photo is exposed.

Verdict

DSLR take images in a RAW format. This means that it records more data than what is shown in the image. That allows advanced computer users to edit and manipulate the image extensively.

If one is looking for a camera for family occasions, vacation photos, photographs of ceremonies like a graduation, then a point and shoot is a good choice. If someone is a nature photographer, a portrait photographer, or needs flexibility with his or her images, then a DSLR is probably right for that photographer.