Digital cameras: Should I go with digital compact or a digital SLR camera?

Differences between point-and-shoot and DSLR......

In reply to: Should I go with digital compact or a digital SLR camera? by Lee Koo (ADMIN) 

That's an interesting question, and the answer has changed in recent years. The two main things that separate an SLR today from a point-and-shoot, besides the changeable lenses, are the viewfinder and the image sensor. The SLR viewfinder uses an optical view window that actually shows you what the lens sees. Some pros insist this is critical, but now the newest SLRs actually include the ability to do it the other way (called "live view") for those who prefer an LCD window. The other thing is that most SLRs have a larger image sensor, which means less image noise on low-light shots and sometimes a slightly smoother looking image. SLRs also tend to be heavier and larger, which is actually good when you're trying to hold the camera steady, but bad when your arm gets tired.

The changeable lenses are great, and let you get just what you need, including fixed lenses with really good low light capabilities for special situations - much better than that all-in-one zoom lens. The catch is that you have to buy those extra lenses, carry them around, and change them. So you need to decide if you're the kind of person who gets a new lens for Christmas, then carries it around in their camera bag, or if that sounds annoying. You won't gain much if you buy an SLR and then only one lens. Compacts today can have just as many megapixels as the SLRs - although that isn't really that important.

You can also get "converter" lenses that attach to many non-SLRs. They aren't as good as "real" lenses, but they do work pretty well, and are small and relatively cheap.

Many of the features that you probably miss now, like manual controls and such, are now available on the higher-end compacts.

It might be a good idea to decide what you really want and consider some alternatives. For the price of one decent lens, you could buy a second compact camera for different situations, maybe one of the new "super zooms" for wildlife shots. If you haven't already done so, buy a good flash and a tripod - they make a world of difference in some situations.

Some features you should look for include the ability to attach converter lenses (not all compacts can), a hot shoe on top for attaching an external flash (which many compacts LACK), and the ability to take RAW or TIF images (which are much better than JPGs if you plan to edit them on a computer). If you plan to get serious you want an external flash for indoor shots - nobody serious shoots with the onboard flash, even on the expensive cameras, except in emergencies.

I would definitely suggest trying the camera in person before making a decision, and adding up the entire package before making a commitment. (That SLR plus all the cool lenses you want might end up being over your budget.)

I have two SLRs, which I take out for important shots, and which work very well, but it's the point-and-shoot compact that's usually in my pocket when I go out - because the SLR doesn't FIT in my pocket.

You should definitely check out a web site called www.dpreview.com for very insightful reviews of LOTS OF both compacts and DSLRs.

You might also consider a reconditioned camera if you're budget conscious. Nikon "factory showroom refurbs" can sometimes be had for near half price, and come with a new warranty... depending on how you feel about refurbs.

For a good starter DSLR I suggest you look at a Nikon D60 or a D40x.

[Another thing to remember with SLRs is that the lenses usually only interchange between models from the same manufacturer so, once you buy a Nikon (or a Canon) and a few lenses, you tend to be committed to that manufacturer in the future. After all, it would be silly to buy a new camera that can't use those valuable lenses you already have. ]