MISC NAV ://tutorials.htm
07-12-09: Week 03
TYPES OF DIGITAL CAMERAS
Have you ever really wondered the difference between a few types of digital cameras? This will be sure to help you get a better understanding and maybe even help you choose a new camera in the future.
POINT AND SHOOT
These cameras are the most basic cameras that you see in stores today.
Even with this type, there are a few underlying types as well like "ultra compact" and "compact".
Ultra compact cameras are very small, lightweight, and are capable of taking good pictures. Usually ultra compact cameras require a slim rechargable battery which allows them to be so compact. A lot of the time, these cameras lack in features and may be lacking a basic view-finder. Compact digital cameras usually require AA batteries which make them a little larger in size. These cameras include a well-rounded amount of preset scene selections and manual controls. The downside of compact cameras is that ususally the cheaper they are, the quality of the pictures may be very poor. (Higher priced cameras usually have more "megapixels" which the higher the camera is, the sharper the image.)
Usually on either of these types of point and shoot, there is a limit as to what can be done to set the feel for a picture. Most of the time the aperture and shutter speed cannot be set. However, the ISO and white balance can be set which is nice.
ADVANCED
These are also called "prosumer" cameras. (A cross between the words "professional" and "consumer".)
This type of camera gives the user a little bit more of a professional feel than a basic point and shoot.
These cameras usually include a fixed lens and give the use a lot more freedom with controls and settings. (Usually all manual.) These cameras can also use such things as converter lenses (giving you a better rage of shooting pictures) and external flashes. More than likely, these cameras are good for those who are just starting their adventures in photography and aren't ready for something too expensive before they get the feel.
DIGITAL SINGLE REFLEX (DSLR)
These cameras are high end and can be quite costly.
With this type of camera, a proper lens will have to be purchased. However, there are very few that do have a fixed lens. These cameras give you total control over the settings allowing for supreme flexibility. Some DSLR cameras have a few presets like basic point and shoot cameras, and all have an optical view finder.
Pictures thanks to amazon.com.