Compare digital cameras: DSLR or point and shoot?
I have been asked by a number of people whether they should buy a DSLR (digital single lens reflex) or a point and shoot (compact model) camera and my answer has always been this: If you have the budget, then it’s always an advantage to buy both. However, if you can afford only one, then it is important to know first what kind of photography you are planning to go into. Do you plan to become a pro or a serious hobbyist or you just want to take pictures of family activities that you can email to friends? DSLRs and compact point-and-shoot have distinct pros and cons so it’s important to understand both the benefits and downsides in order to buy the right camera for your kind of photography.
1. Compare digital cameras: Do you really need to get a DSLR to get better photos?
No and yes. There are actually many ways to measure what “better photos” mean. The most important component to becoming a better photographer is learning how to utilize your eye not your camera. What is absolutely important is to first learn how to compose, expose and use proper lighting with whatever type of camera you have. I have seen many great pictures in Flickr and most of them are taken with compact or point and shoot cameras.
2. Compare digital cameras: Is the size and weight of your camera a big issue?
DSLRs are simply bigger and heavier than most point-and shoot or superzoom cameras due to their lens mounts and internal mirrors. In my case, the only reason I take my point and shoot out with me is on those occasions when I don’t want to lug my DSLR (and it’s lenses) around with me. DSLRs are heavy and sizable and when you add a lens or two to your kit bag you can end up with quite a load! So,if you want a camera you can slip in a pocket or a small bag, then a compact or a superzoom is the best choice.
3. Compare digital cameras: Do you prefer to compose photos using your screen?
Composing photographs with color screen is one of the joys of digital photography. However, this is something that has not been perfected yet by traditional DSLRs. Indeed, until recently, it was not even possible at all. Also, even with the introuction of the Live View feature in some new DSLRs, it is said that using the Live View feature still causes delay when taking photos and noise in the images. In addition, using the optical viewfinder of DSLR will allow you to check the focusing much better than in color screen. So if you want the smoothest experience when composing with the screen, you’ll be better-off buying a compact or super-zoom.
4. Compare digital cameras: (For first-time SLR users) Are you willing to invest time and effort to learn how to use your DSLR?
The learning curve is steep especially if you have never used a DSLR before. Think of the numerous features and buttons which can be very confusing to a beginner. But you may argue that DSLRs have fully automatic mode and have the normal array of semi-auto modes that point and shoot digital cameras have. Then, why buy a bulky and complicated camera to use when you have no plans to know how to use the tools that they give you? (If you are not convince yet, please go back to question number 1)
5. Compare digital cameras: Are you willing to invest in specialist lenses for ultra wide angle coverage, macro photography, etc.?
Several compact and superzoom cameras now offer 25mm-28mm wide angle coverage. Hoever, if you want to capture an even bigger field of view, then you have to have a DSLR with an optional ultra-wide angle lens. The same is true if you want to use special lenses for low-light conditions, optimized for close-up photography, or lenses that offer control over perspective. So, if you are willing to invest in additional lenses and (willing to carry them around since they are quite bulky and heavy!), a DSLR offers much greater flexibility.
6. Compare digital cameras: Do you want to capture video clips using your camera?
As of early 2009, there are only three models that offer video capture: the Nikon D90, Canon’s EOS 5D Mark II and the Nikon D3X. (I think another upcoming Canon model also has a video capture…the 1Ds Mark IV, if I am not mistaken). So unless you are going to buy these new DSLRs, movie modes predominantly remain in the realm of compact cameras. However, if you want a high-definition video quality, then consider buying a camcorder instead.
7. Compare digital cameras: Do you want complete control over all the settings?
If you want to have full control over your camera’s settings, such as when composing shots with shallow depth-of-field, long exposures for special effects or astro-photography, a DSLR is the only way to do all these things.
8. Compare digital cameras: Will you be shooting mostly in low light? How about faster shutter speeds to freeze actions?
DSLRs are built to be more sensitive to light because of their much larger sensors than compacts or superzooms. This means that you can get better picture quality at higher sensitivities (the bigger ISO numbers) when shooting under low light conditions. The same is true with faster shutter speeds to freeze action. So if you want to get good quality pictures at high sensitivities, go for a DSLR.
9. Compare digital cameras: Will you be using your camera with an external flashgun or studio lighting?
DSLRs are equipped to connect with and control external lighting much better than compacts and superzooms. Although some compacts and superzooms offer flash hotshoes, the control over the amount of flash you can use is quite limited. So if you want to link multiple flashguns or if you plan to rent a fancy studio for the day, a DSLR is the camera for you
10. Compare digital cameras: Do you need a camera that responds quickly?
If you are serious about shooting sports, wildlife or even just fast-moving kids, then DSLR is the better option for you. Generally speaking, a DSLR will startup and respond much quicker than a compact. DSLRs also offer superior continuous shooting capabilities (at 5 frames per second or more). Focusing on DSLRs is also generally quicker but it varies greatly depending on the type of lens you are using.
Those are just my personal opinion. Whether you should buy a DSLR or a point and shoot is ultimately a question that you need to answer for yourself. It’s best to have both but if you have to choose between one or the other get a camera that would best suit your experience level, the type of photos that you take, and the quality of image that you are after.
You may want also to checkout this video from VideoJug titled: DSLR vs. point-and-shoot cameras
Credits:
Wide-angled city lights photo from llhoyd08 (Flickr)
action photos from shutterhack (Flickr)
And now there is the situation with the new Panasonic Lumix G1, the first of the so-called ‘Micro Four Thirds’ cameras, basically/allegedly these have the ease of a point-and-shoot camera with the functionality of a DSLR. Here is a review – http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/panasonicdmcg1/ – could be quite interesting. also the Canon g9/g10 models are a nice compromise. point-and-shooters, yes, but with many highend features found usually only on DSLRs. a hard core photographer friend of mine told me that these models are often the backup camera for professional photogs, including parazzi.
helpful article thanks a lot..
Wow dude, I didn’t new that, much appreciated.