Digital Camera's SLR of Compact?

Question

Can some one please tell me other than size the major differences between compact and SLR Digital cameras?

What are the benefits of paying double the money for an SLR? Are they stupidly hard to use?

Answer 1

Assuming that you're comparing with a higher quality digicam camera, the basic reasons to choose a DSLR would be:

Faster AutoFocus (0.1-0.2 sec vs 0.3-0.7sec)
Better high ISO (low light) performance
Wanting to look through an optical viewfinder.
Slightly better image quality.
Option for more shallow depth of field

The 1st two can be significant for some types of photography.

Answer 2

The benefits of the SLR include the interchangeable lenses and a faster recovery time. Ever tried to get a shot, but missed because your compact was still recovering from your last photo? Not an issue with the SLR. Most are easy to use, and have good "auto" settings. I don't think you need to be a pro to appreciate the benefits of the digital SLR - just someone who likes to take pictures and appreciates a good quality shot.

Answer 3

Unless you have a (professional) need to buy into a system, you would do better to go for a high-end compact which gives you similar performance at a much lower price. These cameras are also known as "superzooms" and offer a staggering 36mm to 432mm (or thereabouts) zoom range. The optical quality of these lenses is as good (in some cases, better than) as prime lens DSLR's and you usually get a larger LCD screen. These compacts are not necessarily small and by the time you've strapped on a tele or wide angle converter, you have a sizable piece of hardware.

DSLR's can offer a shedload of megapixels but this doesn't mean better picture quality. It just enables a professional to enlarge the image to a size well beyond what the keen amateur is likely to want. They can be quicker in processing an image but the difference (in old SLR terms) is like that between an auto-winder and a motor drive. To match the zoom range of a compact with prime lenses would cost you hundreds.

Answer 4

Picture quality/control and durability are the differences that make an SLR cost more. The durability factor itself justifies spending twice as much. The question is, do you have the money available to pay for that kind of difference?!

Good luck!

Answer 5

Better quality photograph can be obtained with a digital SLR. Better resolution, clearer.

For those people familiar with film SLR cameras, they may find them easier to use.

But not if you have left it at home because it is too bulky to carry around.

Answer 6

If you are not a professional, all you need is a compact.
I own the canon sd600 and it is great.
There are manual settings to keep you busy (if you like that sort of thing) , but the camera is super easy to use and it produces fantastic pictures. If you have the time, knowledge, and money, then go for the SLR

Answer 7

SLR =Interchangeable lenses, no movie modes, usually larger format sensor, lower noise, better hi ISO performance. Optical viewfinder which actually uses the mounted lens. Usually better exposure control due to advanced features and manual over-ride. Better white balance control than auto settings on many digicams.
As with any tool, learning to use it permits better results. You can always leave it on Auto and get good results but if you want more intimate control you have the tool.

Answer 8

Digital Camera is compact and small.Slr camera has got interchangeable lens system and they are bulky ones

Answer 9

lens choices
better photo's
more options on the camera
wireless operations
master/slave options
higher pixels
faster focusing
etc

Answer 10

i don't know