Find solution
Is a DSLR camera good?

What is the difference between a really good digital snapshot camera or a starter DSLR camera that are same $?

  • Ok so I might not have got the terminology correct in the question, but anyway, I am interested in buying a camera that will take good quality pictures, my budget is around $1000 more or less (would love it to be less). As I was researching I found all sorts of labels such as entry level DSLR, pro DSLR, travel zoom, mirrorless, pro digicam, superzoom and ultra compact... And many of them were around the same price.. So basically I just need some help, which type of camera for around $1000 will give me the best quality photos? Wanting to take all kinds of photos from daylight to low light to sport to functions etc.. Also, my friend recently just bought a small point and shoot type of camera for around $800, what is the difference in quality for a camera of that standard compared to a starter DSLR camera around the same price? Thank you!

  • Answer:

    Basically - sensor size. Both may have 12 or 14 or 16 MPs, but the sensors in all DSLRs are physically much bigger than in compacts, so the image is of much higher quality. Also, DSLRs are more intended for serious artistic shooting, thus have more controls to help that sort of thing, but you have to put a little effort into understanding them - but don't worry, DSLRs also have 'simple' modes'! Hard to advise you which way to go for say $700 to $1000, maybe see if friends have either sort and ask to have a go with various types.

Kimberle... at Yahoo! Answers Visit the source

Was this solution helpful to you?

Other answers

There are many factors, but 2 I consider key. First is the sensor size. The bigger, the better. All things equal, the bigger sensor camera will perform better in low light (less noise), better focus IQ, better dynamic range. Second are the lens which you can attach to that camera. That said, there are trade offs. DSLRs are the most customizable, flexible, and generally provide the best image quality in all conditions, but they're big and bulky. The other option at the opposite end of the spectrum are point & shoots (aka PS) that addresses the size. PS compromise a lot to get you their portability - smaller sensor, poorer optics, bad low light performance. The middle ground is where a lot of action is taking place. You're getting relatively small body cameras with DSLR sized sensors jammed in. There's even interchangeable lens for some of these that have very good optics. Once you jam in a lens on these, they get kinda bulky almost into the DSLR category. Now - the answer to your question. That camera your friend has is likely something similar to a Sony NEX-7 or a Canon G1X. These have APS-C sensor (same as that of lower end DSLR) crammed into a large compact camera. They run about $700-$800 and some have interchangeable lens. The Canon 1GX does not, but the built in lens is very good when compared to a kit lens on a DSLR. The quality of the optics will decide the difference here. If you don't mind the size and want the expandibility, get a DSLR. Canon and Nikon are the two biggest players, but don't rule out Sony or Pentax. If you're not interested in expandibility and value portability, my advice is to research a Sony Nex-5, Nex-7, or a G1x by Canon. They're phenomenal especially the Nex series.

HungLo

I don't know of any point and shoot camera that costs $800 - that's dslr money. Point and shoots run from $100 (junk) to about $400 (not bad). I'm a Canon guy so that's what I recommend. Any camera in the Canon Rebel line will do what you want.

Jim A

Related Q & A:

Just Added Q & A:

Find solution

For every problem there is a solution! Proved by Solucija.

  • Got an issue and looking for advice?

  • Ask Solucija to search every corner of the Web for help.

  • Get workable solutions and helpful tips in a moment.

Just ask Solucija about an issue you face and immediately get a list of ready solutions, answers and tips from other Internet users. We always provide the most suitable and complete answer to your question at the top, along with a few good alternatives below.