DSLR Basics, Getting Digital

People are becoming more visually inclined, that’s according to psychologists. What the means is most people love using their eyes!

How do we use our eyes?

To view all the things that are around us is how we use our eyes. But over time people have developed ways to preserve what we see, picturesque or not. Using a camera is one way we do that.

The fastest selling cameras in the market place are the DSLR cameras.

What are SLR cameras?

SLR (Single Lens Reflex) cameras were originally designed to be used by professional photographers. This type of camera uses a mirror that reflects the light coming though the lens into the viewfinder where the photographer can see with the final image will be. Also, SLR cameras have interchangeable lenses, allowing the user to select anything form a super wide angle lens call a “fisheye”, a highly magnified telephoto lens, a zoom lens, or a macro lens extreme close up photography.

Both DSLR and SLR cameras use interchangeable lenses a mirror and the associated optical abilities. But instead of film, DSLR cameras use a light sensing microchip and memory cards.

Following is a comparison between the point-and-shoot and DSLR cameras:

• SLR type cameras use interchangeable lenses and generally produce a better image due to their superior optics compared to a point-and-shoot camera.
• Generally the image sensor is larger in a DSLR camera improving image quality.
• DSLRs operate faster. They focus quicker, and the time between pressing the shutter release and the picture being taken is less (shutter lag).
• DSLRs do better with low light because they typically have higher ISO ratings available and they produce less electronic noise.
• DSLRs out perform point and shoot camera in terms of control over exposure, effects of depth of field due to sensor size, sensitivity to light, responsiveness.
• DSLRs cost more than point and shoot cameras.
• DSLRs are heavier and less compact that point and shoot models.

Here is a list of some of the more popular DSLR camera models on the market:

Prosumer models:

• Canon EOS 10D
• Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT
• Nikon D50
• Nikon D70s
• Pentax *ist DS

Professional Models:

• Canon EOS 1D Mark II
• Canon EOS 20D
• Fuji Finepix S3 Pro
• Nikon D2x

Who are DSLS designed for?

Both professional and hobbyist photographers who want sharper and clearer photographs. People who don’t mind traveling with a larger camera in order to capture better images would do well with a DSLR.

As with all things electronic (computers, GPS units, televisions, etc.) digital camera prices decrease over time while their quality and features improve.

If you intend to be a serious photographer, whether as a hobby or professionally, practice shooting with a DSLR and consider your budget and quality of lenses before you buy.

Now, over to you. Please leave a comment. Good or bad, I appreciate any feedback.