Anyone with a little experience in digital photography has looked at (and probably dreamed about) the more expensive DSLR devices. While compact digital cameras are great for the casual photographer who wants to take vacation or family pictures, DSLR cameras can provide the more ambitious photographer with more control and a better photo experience. Let’s see the basics of DSLR cameras.

Picture quality

SLR (and DSLR) cameras have been known for the higher picture quality that they produce. Not only do DSLR cameras tend to have higher megapixel levels than compact cameras, they also have larger image sensors, larger viewfinders and a higher sensitivity to light.

Because of these characteristics, the product of DSLR cameras will always be better than compact cameras. DSLR pictures will also be easier to manipulate with photo editing programs.

Customization

The essence of a DSLR camera is the interchangeable lenses. Just like a professional film SLR camera, the lens of a DSLR camera can be changed to fit different photographic situations.

There are lenses specialized in macro photo (very up-close pictures), landscape, low light, portraits, etc. While it’s hard to navigate lenses at first, with a little training and reading you’ll quickly understand how lenses work and how you can use them to take better pictures in all situations.

DSLR cameras also have a lot of customization features to control shutter speed, flash power, white, contrast and brightness levels, etc. You can customize exposure more precisely than with a point-and-shoot and focus on what matters in your picture. There are also lens filters available to produce a range of effects.

The “professional” effect

DSLR cameras look more professional and produce more professional pictures. Yes, it might be big and hefty, and sometimes heavy, but a good DSLR camera will reward your visual work for years to come.

Often, people who buy a DSLR camera don’t stop there. They learn about the basics of photography, composition, exposure, aperture, and all that jazz. They also become proficient in digital editing software like Photoshop.

When photography becomes a passion, a point-and-shoot compact camera will not be enough anymore; you will find a need for more customization and thus will look at DSLR cameras.

Cons

But there aren’t only benefits to DSLR cameras. Some people might be scared of getting DSLR cameras because of some deterrent.

First, DSLR cameras are expensive. They’re getting cheaper, but they usually are at least twice the price as compact cameras. And with that, you need to buy extra lenses, accessories, bags… It can become a costly hobby.

Second, DSLR cameras can get heavy, especially when loaded with lenses, filters and flash accessories. For someone who just wants to take vacation pictures, it might become too much of a workout.

Last, DSLR cameras can be hard to use. If you’re not willing to go beyond point-and-shoot knowledge of photo, then you shouldn’t bother with DSLR.

Do you know if you want a DSLR camera yet? We hope to have clarified the good things and the bad things about them so you can make an informed decision.