The market is flooded with a variety of cameras and it is easy to get confused as to the difference between the types. Here is a breakdown on the basics and who might find them useful.
SLR--Single Lens Reflex camera (this is the type of camera pictured). An SLR contains a mirror between the aperture and the shutter that reflects the light entering the camera. When the shutter is closed, the light is reflected through a prism and into the viewfinder. When the shutter is open, the mirror swings out of the way to allow light to pass directly onto the film. They also have lenses that are separate from the camera body so you can change the type of lens.
Benefits: One of the beauties of this setup is that the viewfinder accurately shows exactly the same image that will be recorded onto the film. SLRs almost always have interchangeable lenses so you can select the lens that best fits the occasion. ie, a telephoto for wildlife or sports, and a wide angle for landscapes or architecture. SLRs are also, depending on manufacturer, very dependable. Once you learn to use an SLR, they are very simple.
Drawbacks: They are a bit more complicated to learn to use than a point and shoot camera. They tend to be a bit larger and heavier than a point and shoot.
You might want an SLR if the idea of a little more control over your photos appeals to you. If you don't mind a little bit of a learning curve, then you will have fun with an SLR. Also if your friends are always asking to borrow your camera, and returning it broken, this is the camera for you! :)
Point and shoot: These cameras tend to include everything but the kitchen sink. The "brain" inside the camera focuses the lens on whatever object is in the center of the focusing grid, selects the proper shutter speed, and fires the flash. Unlike the SLR, the viewfinder is merely a small hole with a lens in the top of the camera, to the image you see with be slightly different than the image recorded on film.
Benefits: Usually smaller and lighter weight than an SLR. Takes little time to learn how to use. Can use one-handed.
Drawbacks: The camera controls the shutter speed, focus, and metering and photographer has few options.
You might want a point and shoot if you do not have time to learn to use an SLR. If you are always on the go, this type is easy to stick in a pocket, purse, or sports bag to take pictures of the basketball games or a snapshot with friends. This camera is less about professional shots than a fun shot.
SLR--Single Lens Reflex camera (this is the type of camera pictured). An SLR contains a mirror between the aperture and the shutter that reflects the light entering the camera. When the shutter is closed, the light is reflected through a prism and into the viewfinder. When the shutter is open, the mirror swings out of the way to allow light to pass directly onto the film. They also have lenses that are separate from the camera body so you can change the type of lens.
Benefits: One of the beauties of this setup is that the viewfinder accurately shows exactly the same image that will be recorded onto the film. SLRs almost always have interchangeable lenses so you can select the lens that best fits the occasion. ie, a telephoto for wildlife or sports, and a wide angle for landscapes or architecture. SLRs are also, depending on manufacturer, very dependable. Once you learn to use an SLR, they are very simple.
Drawbacks: They are a bit more complicated to learn to use than a point and shoot camera. They tend to be a bit larger and heavier than a point and shoot.
You might want an SLR if the idea of a little more control over your photos appeals to you. If you don't mind a little bit of a learning curve, then you will have fun with an SLR. Also if your friends are always asking to borrow your camera, and returning it broken, this is the camera for you! :)
Point and shoot: These cameras tend to include everything but the kitchen sink. The "brain" inside the camera focuses the lens on whatever object is in the center of the focusing grid, selects the proper shutter speed, and fires the flash. Unlike the SLR, the viewfinder is merely a small hole with a lens in the top of the camera, to the image you see with be slightly different than the image recorded on film.
Benefits: Usually smaller and lighter weight than an SLR. Takes little time to learn how to use. Can use one-handed.
Drawbacks: The camera controls the shutter speed, focus, and metering and photographer has few options.
You might want a point and shoot if you do not have time to learn to use an SLR. If you are always on the go, this type is easy to stick in a pocket, purse, or sports bag to take pictures of the basketball games or a snapshot with friends. This camera is less about professional shots than a fun shot.
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