It seems that most people today have some sort of camera. At the very least they have a camera function built-in on their phone. So many people seem to fancy themselves photographers, but don’t fully understand the principles of photography, let alone all the properties of the functions on their camera. This goes for the “point and shoot” models of digital cameras in addition to the higher-end and more complex DSLR cameras. There are some significant differences between the two, so it is important to do a little research before you buy one.

DSLR stands for Digital Single-Lens Reflex, meaning the camera uses a mechanical mirror system to refract light from the lens to the optical viewfinder (what you see on the back of the camera). Unlike traditional digital cameras, there isn’t a delay between the time you push the button to take a photograph and when the photograph is actually taken. You are able to adjust shutter speed for action shots, which reduces any blur that comes from quick movements.

Some models of DSLRs also allow you to change the lenses to fit the type of photographs you are shooting. Whether they’re action shots in sports, still life, long range, or studio-quality type pictures you are after, all you have to do is be knowledgeable of particular light settings and photography principles and have the correct camera lens.

If a DSLR sounds too advanced or complicated for you, you can still enjoy photography with a simple “point and shoot” camera. These cameras are much easier to use, and although they may lack some of the features and quality of DSLR, they are much cheaper and much more compact.

Did you know?
In 1969, Willard S. Boyle and George E. Smith invented the first successful imaging technology using a digital sensor, a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device), which would allow the rapid development of digital technology.

-Brendan

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