The Digital Photography Companion

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PROS AND CONS OF A COMPACT CAMERA

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If you’re just getting started with digital photography, this information can also help you

pick the right camera model. I like to divide digital cameras into three broad categories:

compact, Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR), and hybrid. As you progress from compact

to DSLR, you’ll find that the tools become more sophisticated. e third category, hy-

brid, is an example of how digital imaging is converging with other technologies. ese

devices can be quite useful, but they won’t usually serve as your primary camera.

I’ve listed the features and components in this chapter in alphabetical order. When

shopping for a new camera, you can use this feature list to determine the model that

best suits your needs. But more important, you can consider this chapter to be a friend-

ly companion to your owner’s manual, helping you master the controls of the camera

you already have.

Which Should I Choose: Compact or DSLR?

Compacts, and their bulkier DSLR brethren, each have their advantages. Often, people

ask, “Which camera should I choose?” Over time, most avid photographers will own

both types. But if you’re looking to make a choice before that glorious day, there are a

few things to consider.

e following discussions touch on the salient features of both compacts and DSLRs.

Studying these sections will help you decide what ...