Most amateur photographers will tell you, while an SLR camera has numerous features and functions, point and shoot cameras are much simpler. Although newer point and shoot cameras do have more bells and whistles than older ones did. But what about the professional level? Let’s find out more about how point and shoot Cameras differ from SLR Cameras.
What are the Point and Shoot Cameras & SLR Cameras?
After knowing the basics of both types of cameras, it will be easier for you to understand their differences. So before exploring the differences between point and shoot cameras and SLR cameras, let’s know their basic definition and specifications first.
Point and shoot camera
A point-and-shoot camera is a small, compact one that is designed to be easy to carry around with you. They are also sometimes called “compact” or “compact digital” cameras. They typically have a fixed lens, automatic settings, and no viewfinder. Moreover, these devices come with a built-in flash component.
These types of cameras are great for people who don’t want the hassle of carrying a heavier DSLR with them everywhere they go, but still want great quality photos. These cameras are even better for people who just want to take some quick snapshots without any fuss.
SLR camera
SLR camera stands for Single-Lens Reflex. This type of camera allows the user to see exactly what the lens sees. These devices produce high-quality pictures but are also bulky to carry around. SLR cameras usually use interchangeable lenses and come with an electronic viewfinder. The viewfinder is the small window on the back of the camera that allows you to compose the image and set focus.
These cameras are popular because of their accuracy, versatility, and durability. They are a great option for panoramic photography, landscapes, wildlife, and macro photography. On the other hand, they are expensive and ideal options for professionals.
How Do Point and Shoot Cameras Differ from SLR Cameras?
Point and Shoot cameras don’t have interchangeable lenses like SLR cameras. They only allow you to use the lens that comes with the camera. So you won’t be able to change your lens.
An average Point and Shoot camera have fewer megapixels than an SLR camera. The quality of their images is also inferior to SLR cameras. Apart from these differences, there are others also. Let’s explore them one by one.
Camera Size
Point and shoot cameras are small and lightweight. As such, it is easy to carry them around and easy to hold in your hand. Also, they are easier to store as they occupy less storage space.
On the other hand, the SLR cameras are big and heavy. Since they are heavier, it is difficult to hold them for long periods. Also, they need more storage space compared to point-and-shoot cameras.
Camera Control
Most point-and-shoot cameras have just one button for taking pictures. With a single press of the button, you can take a picture. In contrast, many SLR cameras have various types of buttons for different features.
There are a lot of specialized controls on SLR cameras such as those that adjust aperture, focus, and shutter speed. They are arranged on the camera body so it is hard to move all the controls at once. Moreover, they require a bit more know-how to operate.
Lens
The lens is an integral part of a camera but you can not change the lens in a point-and-shoot camera. They typically have a fixed lens so the only thing you can do is buy a new camera.
These units have a smaller lens and therefore a shorter focal length. This means that the lens has a limited range of view. Some point-and-shoot cameras use hybrid lenses which means that these units can switch between a normal lens and an ultra-wide lens.
In contrast, the SLR cameras have interchangeable lenses. So you can choose from a variety of lenses to fit your needs. This is one of the big differences between these two types of cameras.
Apertures
SLR cameras usually have higher apertures than point-and-shoot cameras. This means that the lens of SLR cameras has more light entering the camera. This helps to keep the photo clear at night or in low-light conditions.
Long Zoom
A long zoom camera allows you to get a close-up shot of things. If you use a point-and-shoot camera, the photo you took will be too far away to see what is in the picture. Or if you want to take a close-up shot of something far away, you need to zoom in which makes the photo look blurry. A long zoom camera allows you to take a close-up shot and you will get it from SLR cameras.
Image stabilization
When you shoot a video with a point-and-shoot camera, the picture can be shaky if the camera shakes. But an SLR camera will not have this problem because it has image stabilization.
Price
The point-and-shoot cameras are less expensive than SLR cameras. If you’re looking for a point-and-shoot camera, you can find one in the $200 to $300 price range that will take great photos.
The SLR cameras typically cost around $500, but you can find a good one for less if you’re willing to compromise on a few features. Some of the newer models cost about $1,000. This is because they are better than the older models and have more features.
Pros and Cons of Point and Shoot Cameras
There are pros and cons to both types of cameras. The good thing about using a point-and-shoot camera is extremely compact, lightweight, and easy to carry around. The bad thing is that you don’t have many special features or a very good zoom, etc.
A lot of point-and-shoot cameras only have one or two features that make it easier to take pictures. Generally, these units come with a simple user interface that takes a while to learn how to use it. Also, they are free of many of the problems and limitations of semi-automatic cameras.
These devices have a fixed lens and do not offer optical zoom. Apart from this, they have a limited range of subjects to photograph: it can only be people in front of you or will come out blurry in the photo if they’re too far away.
Generally, these are the most common pros and cons of point and shoot cameras but they may differ in some premium options.
Pros and Cons of SLR Cameras
The advantage of SLR cameras is that they are versatile and provide high-quality images and videos. These units allow the interchange of lenses so you can choose a lens according to your needs. Also, they come with advanced features that allow you to control everything while taking a photo.
But they are more expensive than point-and-shoot cameras. Also, SLR cameras are heavy and a bit difficult to carry for a long time. But currently, Digital SLR cameras are at the top of popularity because of their outstanding features and advanced technology.
What is the Best Point and Shoot Camera?
You already know many things about point-and-shoot cameras. Thousands of models are available on the market. Among them, the newest models offer the most advanced features and digital photo capabilities. But they are typically priced higher than an ordinary model.
Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 4K Digital Camera is one of the top-rated point-and-shoot cameras right now. This unit can capture 4K videos and photos at 30 fps. The monitor displays the shots with a maximum resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. That is the same resolution as a Full HD TV screen.
If you’re a newbie, this product is an ideal point-and-shoot for you to get accustomed to digital photography. It has a built-in Wi-Fi connection that allows you to transfer the images to your smartphone.
What is the Best SLR Camera?
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 Digital SLR Camera is an excellent, entry-level camera for anyone looking to take their photography to the next level. It features a wide range of shooting modes and intuitive controls that allow beginners to learn and grow in their craft.
The Rebel comes with a 9-point AF system and Servo AF which make it easy to focus on even the smallest subjects. Apart from this, the optical viewfinder system makes framing your shot just like using a traditional SLR camera.
Also, it comes standard with wifi capabilities so you can upload your favorite shots right to your phone or tablet. This is a budget-friendly option that won’t leave you with buyer’s remorse.
Conclusion
Point and shoot cameras are great if you’re just starting as a photographer or need something for the occasional snapshot. On the other hand, SLR cameras are ideal for professional use. Nowadays Digital SLR cameras have become the first choice of photo enthusiasts.
Hopefully, by now you know how point-and-shoot cameras differ from SLR cameras. We are at the end of the article. So, if you find this article helpful then check our other articles related to cameras and photography.