There are a number of advantages to a digital SLR camera, but not cost.
A digital SLR is a high-quality camera that provides professional quality photographic images. While point-and-shoot digital cameras are the most common in use by people for everyday use, the SLR was usually reserved for use by professional photographers, but camera manufacturers have continued to refine the camera and created digital SLRs that are affordable for consumers who are not professional photographers.
Identification
The acronym SLR stands for single lens reflex. An SLR camera shows the user through the viewfinder the image as it will appear in its final form. This is partly due to the fact that the light coming into the camera comes directly through the lens. The camera is able to use multiple types of lenses to provide a versatile tool for photographers of all kinds.
Lenses
The lens is a critical part of the camera, and the variety of lenses that are available for use with an SLR camera is one of its greatest advantages. A photographer who is shooting still photography indoors would use a different lens than one who is primarily shooting outdoor stills. Also, a sports or action photographer would use a different lens for shooting indoor and outdoor events. The body of the SLR is able to work with all different types of lenses.
Zoom Control
The zoom features on the digital SLR camera is completely manual. Unlike a compact digital camera that has a push-button zoom control, the photographer has to work the zoom on her lens herself with the SLR. The zoom is part of the functionality of the lens, and since it is completely removable from the body of the camera, it can not be controlled by the camera. To get a significant zoom range with an SLR takes a very expensive lens.
Shutter Speed
One feature that is prized with an SLR camera is the lack of lag time on the shutter. That makes for ideal action shot photography as the photographer can press and hold the button down and snap off multiple consecutive shots that capture an action scene from start to finish. This feature is particularly valuable to sports or breaking news photographers who want to make sure they get the important part of the action in front of them.
Warning
The biggest drawback to the digital SLR camera is its cost. While point-and-shoot digital compact cameras can cost between $100 and $300 for a pretty good piece of equipment, the cost for just the body of an SLR is between $400 and $500. The photographer then needs to buy a lens or lenses to go with the camera body. That will add another $500 or more to the price tag for a single lens, and most photographers will need more than one.
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