digital+cameras

//The Technology //
At the high end of digital imaging, today's photographers have a choice between advanced point-and-shoot and DSLR (digital single lens reflex) cameras. Both camera types have strong points. Both have limitations. The differences -- and the reasons for selecting one over the other -- aren't always obvious.

//Point and Shoot//
Point-and-shoot digital cameras are defined by a built-in lens that never separates from the body. This design also provides a continuous electronic image on the LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor. Although some point-and-shoots also offer an eye-level viewfinder, many do not. Therefore, the most common way to frame shots is by holding the camera away from your face and consulting the monitor.Point-and-shoots have a 1- to 2-second lag time between the time you press the shutter release button and the time the photo is captured. This is for focusing purposes. They also have a mode dial, enabling you to easily select settings based on environment (indoor, outdoor, day, night) without knowing technical photography terms, such as aperture, white balance, and so on.

// Digital SLR //
DSLR stands for digital single lens reflex. In DSLRs, the camera "body" works with a system of detachable, interchangeable lenses, which give you greater creative control with the ability to select a lens based on virtually any photographic situation. The other major design difference between DSLR and point-and-shoot cameras is that most DSLRs only provide a "through-the-lens" optical viewfinder, although some models such as select Sony α (alpha) DSLRs feature the ability to compose and see a live preview of your shots on the camera's LCD monitor. For DSLRs that don't include this feature, you frame the shot by holding the viewfinder up to your eye.

// Size and Weight //
Point-and-shoot cameras tend to be substantially smaller and lighter than DSLRs, so you can slip a point-and-shoot into a purse or pocket. That always-with-you versatility makes point-and-shoots great for capturing the spontaneous and unexpected moments of life, such as when you bump into old friends. In contrast, DSLRs tend to be larger and heavier, so most owners don't take their DSLR camera out unless they know in advance they'll be taking pictures. It's no wonder that, in their free time, professional photographers often carry a point-and-shoot camera "just in case." Advantage: Point-and-shoot.

//Image Quality//
An ordinary DSLR camera has an image sensor of more than 300 square millimetres, whereas a common image sensor for point-and-shoot cameras is about 25 square millimetres. That means DSLR sensors can have over twelve times the area. This gives DSLRs not necessarily more pixels, but better pixels. By providing each pixel a larger area for soaking up light, DSLRs tend to have lower image noise -- the mottling, flecks, and specks of colour unrelated to the original scene. And DSLRs deliver better exposure latitude, or dynamic range. This means you'll capture brighter highlights and deeper shadows. Note, though, that point-and-shoot models such as Sony® Cyber-shot® cameras that include the BIONZ™ image processor have made great strides in their ability to optimize dynamic range.

//Other Features//
DSLR cameras have become far easier to use, and often include fully automatic modes that let even novice photographers take great photos. DSLRs also traditionally have faster start-up and focus capabilities, and DSLR burst mode shooting tends to be more versatile. In addition, DSLR cameras often incorporate powerful image processing, which some point-and-shoot cameras are just beginning to leverage. However, many point-and-shoot digital cameras can capture movies, a capability that DSLRs don't have. Specific point-and-shoots offer advanced features, such as Sony® Face Detection technology, Smile Shutter™ mode, and Intelligent Scene Recognition mode that helps you capture great photos with point-and-click simplicity. Advantage: Draw.

// Cost //
Although you can find a few exceptions at the high end, point-and-shoot cameras tend to be more affordable than DSLRs. And you'll need to consider the cost not only of the DSLR body but also of the lenses. If you want unusual "speed," extreme wide angle, or super-telephoto capability, a good DSLR lens can cost more than the camera body itself. When weighing costs, consider the type of photos you want to take now and those you may want to take within the next two to five years. If you're a novice and will remain a novice, and only need small prints and decent quality, a point-and-shoot will serve the purpose. However, if you plan to expand into professional-level photography, a DSLR camera can be the better long-term investment.

// Hardware/Software required //
Hardware and software required may include image editing software like Adobe Photoshop CS4.

// WINDOWS // WINDOWS OS XP SP2 or later or VISTA NTERNET EXPLORER 6.0 or higher

// MACINTOSH // M ACINTOSH OS X 10.4 or higher SAFARI 1.1 or higher