A Comparison of DSLR Cameras to Super-zoom Cameras
- Professionally used DSLR cameras are in high demand because the cameras are more versatile than super-zoom cameras. The DSLR gives the photographer greater quality pictures. They give the user more creative control, including a broader range of camera speeds, aperture and pixel-density settings. DSLR cameras offer faster shutter speeds and are designed to accept a variety of interchangeable lenses. Picture framing is more accurate, because the user looks through the lens at the actual image.
- Super-zoom cameras are equipped with smaller light sensors and less-complex lenses. The small light and image sensor allows for a physically smaller lens. These cameras are often simpler to use than their DSLR cousins, while at the same time offering a greater zoom range, often up to 20x or 24x image enhancement. Simplicity, price, and portability are favorable factors for these cameras. They are popular among amateur and weekend photographers.
- The DSLR cameras are heavier and more bulky than their super-zoom counterparts. DSLRs have a higher megapixel count and therefore are capable of capturing clear, clean images in HD format. The higher megapixel camera allows the photographer to have better post-production control over the printed photograph. The downside of the professional DSLR camera is the high rate of battery and memory consumption. These cameras can use the maximum battery life on just a few high-quality images.
- The fixed-lens super-zoom camera is much easier to learn to use and less expensive to purchase. Compared to a DSLR camera with an attached telephoto lens, super-zoom cameras can cost thousands of dollars less. Super-zoom cameras are lighter and more compact than their DSLR counterparts. Easy to store, transport, and carry on an afternoon of hiking, these cameras are generally in higher demand than DSLR cameras among those who enjoy wildlife photography, hiking, and outdoors events. Although they are simpler and less expensive, super-zoom cameras capture pictures with great clarity and can capture video like their bigger, more expensive DSLR cousins.