Photography remains one of the most expensive hobbies. But knowing the purpose of your taking pictures and the difference between these two cameras can easily save bucks. But with the following simple explanations, see if you can settle for something affordable in the meantime or go for your dream DSLR.
What is a DSLR?
DSLR or Digital Single-Lens Reflex cameras are higher versions of SLR. It has a live preview like that on a P&S camera. This feature is very helpful for underwater photo shoots. Moreover, the interchangeable lenses make your picture-taking possibilities endless.
Pros:
The high ISO levels and larger image sensors, a DSLR will invariably deliver better images. It has faster shutter speeds and is an excellent tool for capturing movement. With quality optics, flashes, filters and other accessories, the DSLR makes it possible for you to shoot quality pictures even in low light and other poor situations. The better your lenses are, the better your pictures will be.
Another advantage that a DSLR can give is the depth of field due to the large aperture range. This means you can easily separate the subject from the background and come up with real nice bokehs. Startup, shutter lag and focusing are not a problem with DSLR. Moreover, the device allows users full control over the settings. But of course you can always switch to auto modes if you are still an amateur.
Cons:
Although DSLR’s are now becoming affordable for the average earners the number of accessories you have to buy to enhance image quality still make the overall price expensive. Good tripods will get you spending around $250 and high-end lenses can already amount to thousands. Added to this is the cost of maintenance for models with non-self cleaning sensors. Two of the obvious disadvantages of DSLR are its size and weight. It can be a hindrance if you travel to far places just to take pictures. Moreover, it is a very delicate device. And if you are a newbie, a great deal of patience is required for you to arrive at pro-like pictures.
What is a point-and-shoot?
P&S is more popularly known as the digital camera. Without difficult adjustments, this camera is a good piece of equipment for a newbie with a tight budget.
Pros:
The thin size and the light weight of a P&S camera makes it very convenient to carry around immediately anywhere. It is also very easy to operate and lets you take shots unnoticed. Finally, a digital camera is very affordable you can buy a topnotch model for as low as a hundred dollars.
Cons:
Although the technology behind P&S has dramatically improved over the years the image quality is still way behind that of a DSLR. The smaller ISO range is the reason behind grainy pictures and the limited aperture yields is why you blurry images during distance shoots. The manual controls are limited and other models have none at all.
Again, if you are an amateur knowing the difference between these two devices can make this hobby less expensive. Evaluate your needs, only buy what is needed and be prepared to be a pro.