When a photographer decides to get really serious about their craft, they generally already have a point and shoot model and have played with the basic functions that those machines offer. It then becomes time to upgrade and try digital cameras that have more functions and flexibility. Delving into the world of more advanced cameras can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be if one understands what is available to the modern consumer.
Mid Level Options
Interchangeable Lens Camcorder
Not everyone is looking to become a professional photographer. Many hobbyists just want to explore the capabilities of photography a bit more and discover the joys of manual controls. For this mid level hobbyist, super-zoom digital cameras are the perfect choice. They retain the ease of operation that automatic controls bring, while also allowing for the creative control of manual shooting modes. They also have increased optical zoom capacities. Most super-zoom cameras features lenses that can achieve a 10-12x zoom or even more. This is great for shooting children, animals or action. Newer models have many technological advances, as well, including face detecting technology and stabilizing modes that eliminate or reduce camera shake. Plus, the camera can be used like a large point and shoot should the operator desire. Most super-zoom cameras still shoot in jpeg mode, like smaller models.
Pulling Out the Big Guns
For those who have exhausted the abilities and possibilities that more standard digital cameras offer, and want a truly professional shooting experience, a digital SLR is the camera of choice. These are the top of the line cameras when it comes to flexibility and raw power. A digital SLR is comprised of a body and interchangeable lenses. Most models come with a basic starter lens, but serious photographers soon find their own favorites, depending on the particular genre of shooting that they prefer. Lenses that are ideal for shooting action scenes are not as great for portraits or landscapes and vice versa. These digital cameras can shoot in either jpeg or RAW formats, making further editing via a graphics program more accessible. Things like aperture can be controlled by the photographer much more finely than with other digital cameras. However, almost all SLRs still have automatic settings as well, should the photographer want to revert to that. It's also possible to program your own personalized settings and save them as a favorite shooting mode.
Most serious photographers don't stick with point and shoot digital cameras for long. They quickly become frustrated with the lack of flexibility and want more options. The good news is that there is a more full featured choice for every budget range. For the serious hobbyist, a super-zoom camera is a good choice, while an SLR brings in a full menu of professional grade options.
Comparing Digital Cameras
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