Three Categories Of Digital Camera

Today’s digital cameras fall into three categories:

Point-and-shoot (pocket) cameras are small and usually cost around $200 to $400. With automatically retractable lens covers, they’re designed to travel in your pocket, purse, or backpack. These cameras usually have simplified and automatic settings, so you can quickly catch your shot without fumbling at the controls. Because point-and-shooters keep getting smaller, thinner, and more jewelry-like, it’s important nowadays to make sure the camera’s not too small for your fingers. When you get your hands on a model you like, try answering these questions: Is it too small to hold comfortably? Does your index finger naturally align with the shutter release?

Advanced digital cameras (sometimes called prosumer cameras) are bigger than your average pocket-cam; prices range from $300 to $600. With a larger body and a more defined grip, it’s easier to hold these cameras steady when you shoot. Sometimes they resemble the more expensive single lens reflex (SLR) models (described next). But unlike SLRs, advanced digital cameras don’t accept interchangeable lenses. Usually, they have a single zoom lens that can’t be removed, but you do get the option to manually focus (just like in the old days, by turning the focus ring on the lens). With advanced digital cameras you’ll get more choices compared to point-and-shoots for tasks like setting your exposure, choosing ISO speeds, and adjusting the color balance.

Digital SLR cameras have a special appeal if you’re making the transition from a 35mm film camera to digital. If you loved the 35mm camera experience with its interchangeable lenses, filters, and other gear, the digital SLR is the way to goprovided your wallet is willing (expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1500 and up). In many cases you can use your favorite lenses from your Canon or Nikon 35mm camera on a new digital SLR camera body, provided you stay with the same brand. There are a couple of gotchas, though. The main problem is that your 50mm “normal” lens will seem more like a 150mm telephoto lens on most digital SLRs. It’s worth a trip to the camera store with your favorite lenses to make sure you understand how they’ll make the transition.