Wednesday, September 24, 2008

advantages and disadvantages of buying a digital slr

Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying a Digital SLRWriten by Anton Sheker

I bought my first digital camera in the mid 90's it was a Casio QV10 now there are
more and better choices from a range of suppliers that include Canon, Nikon,
Olympus, Fuji and other big names.

Before you make your choice on buying a digital camera, Here
Some Advantages and disadvantages of a DSLR compared to a
Digital Point and Shoot.

1. Greater Lens flexibility

Digital SLRs offer more lens flexibility and choice with more than hundreds of
combination lenses to choice for different intended purposes. From Zooms to
Telephotos, ultra wide angle to Super Close Up. There are even Specialty lenses to
correct perspective control.

2. Image Quality

Generally all DSLR will have better image quality because they have bigger and
better optics than those small lenses they use for high-end point and shoot
cameras. When printing images bigger than 8x10, the point and shoot camera
image quality degrades dramatically (especially for lower end models)

3. Better Performance

The SLR gives better performance even in almost every aspect; autofocus,
virtually no shutter delay, continuous shooting, bigger buffer memory, better
metering and more accessories to use.

4. Feel and ergonomics

Design plays a huge role especially if you are going to use in long hours. Some
cameras fit well into your hands and make you feel like the camera is part of you.
Easy access to shutter and other settings help in giving you better control to capture
your photos.

5. Loads of Features

Range of Features and Accessories are so wide that you can even find 3rd party
makers that have products for your DSLR. Some of the accessories that SLRs have
include External Flash triggers, external, portable power sources, vertical grips,
wireless transmitters, remote triggering devices.

Disadvantages of Having a DSLR.

1. Heavy and Bulky

SLRs are definitely bulkier than the point and shoot's in the market. Heavy and bulky
because these cameras require a higher degree of durability. Materials are for used
are for high performance use. The power requirement for these items are also huge
so they need batteries to power them up.

2. Increased Complexity

SLRs have so many functions and features that is possible to mix and match
different settings to achieve your optimum combination. In short, it is easy to mess
up your settings, too much combinations and choices may confuse you at the
beginning.

3. Expensive Tools

With the Loads of features and functions and other goodies the SLR delivers, there is
a cost that has to be paid, and it isn't cheap. But you get what you pay for and that
is getting a better, faster Tool.

4. LCD Framing

Most shooters prefer to frame their subject using the LCD, this feature is no where
to be found on any DLSR. Many shooters think the ease of use of LCD Framing and
viewing should be extended to the DSLRs (but not all).

5. Lens Variety and Cost

With the Flexibility of Lens Choice comes the variety and cost of these specific use
lenses. Some specialized lenses cost more than the camera itself, so choosing the
best options for you and your use is the best to avoid wasting your money on lenses
you won't use to often.

Anton Sheker is a photographer based in Philippines. For more Photography tips, tricks
and articles visit his site online at http://www.photo.net.ph/blogalicious.

Anton Sheker
is also founder and member of the World Photo Directory

http://www.worldphotodirectory.com

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