What is a Reflex Type Camera?

Are you considering purchasing a digital SLR camera? With so many options on the market, it can be tough to decide whether the investment is worth it. Digital SLR cameras offer advanced features and high-quality images, but they also come with a hefty price tag. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the pros and cons of digital SLR cameras, helping you make an informed decision about whether it’s worth the investment. So, let’s dive in and discover the world of digital SLR photography!

What is a Digital SLR Camera?

How Does it Differ from a Point-and-Shoot Camera?

A point-and-shoot camera is a type of camera that is designed to be easy to use, with automatic settings that make it simple to take a good photo with minimal effort. In contrast, a digital SLR (single-lens reflex) camera is a more advanced type of camera that is designed for serious photographers who want more control over their images.

One of the main differences between a digital SLR camera and a point-and-shoot camera is the image sensor. A digital SLR camera has a larger image sensor, which allows it to capture more light and produce higher-quality images. This is especially important for professional photographers who need to produce high-quality images for their clients.

Another difference is the lens system. A digital SLR camera is compatible with a wide range of lenses, which allows photographers to choose the best lens for their specific needs. Point-and-shoot cameras, on the other hand, typically have a fixed lens that cannot be changed.

Finally, a digital SLR camera offers more advanced features, such as manual controls for exposure, focus, and white balance. This allows photographers to have more creative control over their images and to achieve the exact look they want.

Key Features of a Digital SLR Camera

A digital single-lens reflex (SLR) camera is a type of camera that uses a mirror to reflect light from the lens to an optical viewfinder. The key features of a digital SLR camera include:

• Interchangeable lenses: One of the most significant advantages of a digital SLR camera is the ability to change lenses. This allows for greater flexibility in shooting different types of photography, such as portraits, landscapes, and sports.
• High image quality: Digital SLR cameras typically produce high-quality images due to their large sensors and advanced optics. They are capable of capturing a wide range of tones and colors, and are often used by professional photographers.
• Advanced autofocus systems: Many digital SLR cameras have advanced autofocus systems that can quickly and accurately focus on a subject. This is particularly useful for shooting fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife.
• Weather sealing: Some digital SLR cameras are weather-sealed, meaning they are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. This makes them ideal for outdoor shooting in rain, snow, or other extreme environments.
• In-body image stabilization: Some digital SLR cameras have in-body image stabilization, which means the camera itself is stabilized rather than the lens. This can be useful for shooting handheld in low light conditions or when using a non-stabilized lens.
• Professional controls: Digital SLR cameras often have a range of professional controls, such as custom buttons and dials, that allow for greater control over settings such as exposure and focus. This makes them ideal for advanced photographers who want more control over their shooting.

The Advantages of Owning a Digital SLR Camera

Improved Image Quality

Owning a digital SLR camera comes with several advantages, particularly in terms of image quality. Here’s a closer look at how a digital SLR camera can help you capture better images:

• Higher Resolution: One of the most significant advantages of a digital SLR camera is its higher resolution compared to other types of cameras. This means that you can capture more detail in your images, making them look sharper and more vibrant. With resolutions of up to 50 megapixels, digital SLR cameras allow you to capture stunning images that are perfect for large prints or professional use.
• Larger Sensor Size: Digital SLR cameras are known for their larger sensor size, which means they can capture more light and produce better image quality in low-light conditions. This is particularly important for photographers who often work in challenging lighting conditions, such as during the golden hour or at night.
• More Control Over Exposure: Another advantage of a digital SLR camera is the ability to control exposure settings manually. This gives you greater control over how your images look, allowing you to achieve the exact exposure you want. With a digital SLR camera, you can adjust settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to get the perfect exposure every time.
• Better Autofocus: Digital SLR cameras are known for their advanced autofocus systems, which make it easier to capture sharp images of moving subjects. This is particularly important for sports and wildlife photographers who need to capture fast-moving subjects with precision.
• More Features and Customization Options: Digital SLR cameras offer a range of features and customization options that simply aren’t available on other types of cameras. From customizable buttons and controls to advanced filters and effects, digital SLR cameras give you the flexibility to tailor your shooting experience to your specific needs.

Overall, owning a digital SLR camera can help you capture better images with more detail, more control over exposure, better autofocus, and more features and customization options. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a hobbyist, a digital SLR camera is worth the investment if you’re serious about improving your photography skills.

Interchangeable Lenses

Digital SLR cameras offer a range of advantages over other types of cameras, including the ability to swap out lenses. This feature, known as interchangeable lenses, allows photographers to customize their camera setup to suit their specific needs and preferences. In this section, we will explore the benefits of interchangeable lenses and how they can enhance your photography experience.

• Versatility: One of the main advantages of interchangeable lenses is the versatility they offer. With a wide range of lenses available, photographers can choose the perfect lens for any situation. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or sports, there’s a lens designed specifically for your needs. This means you can take your camera anywhere and capture any type of photo you desire.
• Quality: Another benefit of interchangeable lenses is the improved image quality they provide. Each lens is designed to capture light in a specific way, and some lenses are better suited for certain types of photography. For example, a prime lens may produce sharper images than a zoom lens, making it ideal for portrait photography. By choosing the right lens for the job, you can ensure that your photos turn out looking their best.
• Creativity: Interchangeable lenses also allow photographers to express their creativity in new ways. With a variety of lenses to choose from, you can experiment with different perspectives and techniques to create unique and stunning images. This can be especially useful for professional photographers who need to come up with new and innovative ideas to stand out from the competition.
• Durability: Finally, interchangeable lenses can also be more durable than non-interchangeable lenses. Because they are designed to be removed and replaced, they are typically made with higher-quality materials that can withstand more wear and tear. This means that your lenses will last longer and perform better over time, saving you money in the long run.

Overall, interchangeable lenses are one of the most significant advantages of owning a digital SLR camera. They offer versatility, improved image quality, creativity, and durability, making them an essential tool for any photographer. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, investing in a camera with interchangeable lenses is a smart decision that will enhance your photography experience and help you capture stunning images for years to come.

Customizable Settings

Digital SLR cameras offer a plethora of customizable settings that cater to the needs of various photographers. These settings enable users to adjust and personalize their camera settings according to their preferences and the specific shooting conditions. The customizable settings include:

White Balance

White balance allows photographers to adjust the color temperature of their images. It is essential for capturing accurate colors in different lighting conditions. Digital SLR cameras offer various white balance presets, such as daylight, shade, cloudy, tungsten, and fluorescent, to help users achieve accurate color reproduction.

ISO Sensitivity

ISO sensitivity determines the camera’s sensitivity to light. A higher ISO setting allows for shooting in low-light conditions, but it may also increase image noise. Digital SLR cameras offer a wide range of ISO settings, allowing users to capture images in various lighting conditions while maintaining image quality.

Shutter Speed

Shutter speed controls the duration of the camera’s shutter opening, which affects the amount of light entering the camera and the resulting image. A slower shutter speed allows more light in, but it may also result in motion blur. Digital SLR cameras offer various shutter speed settings, enabling users to capture fast-moving subjects or create motion blur effects.

Aperture

Aperture controls the camera’s aperture size, which affects the amount of light entering the camera and the depth of field in the resulting image. A larger aperture allows more light in and creates a shallower depth of field, ideal for isolating subjects or creating a blurred background. Digital SLR cameras offer adjustable aperture settings, allowing users to control the depth of field and create artistic effects.

Focus Mode

Focus mode determines how the camera focuses on the subject. Digital SLR cameras offer multiple focus modes, such as single-shot, continuous, and manual focus, to cater to different shooting situations and user preferences.

By offering such a wide range of customizable settings, digital SLR cameras provide users with greater control over their photography, enabling them to capture stunning images in various lighting conditions and situations.

Faster Autofocus

Digital Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) cameras have a distinct advantage over other types of cameras when it comes to autofocus. Autofocus is the technology that allows a camera to automatically focus on a subject in the frame. The speed and accuracy of autofocus can make a significant difference in the quality of your photos, especially when shooting fast-moving subjects or in low-light conditions.

Improved Autofocus Performance

Digital SLR cameras are designed with a dedicated phase-detection autofocus (PDAF) system, which allows for faster and more accurate focusing compared to contrast-detection autofocus systems found in mirrorless and compact cameras. The PDAF system uses a dedicated sensor to measure the phase shift of light waves, which enables the camera to calculate the distance to the subject and adjust the focus accordingly. This results in faster and more precise autofocus, especially in low-light conditions.

Continuous Autofocus Tracking

Digital SLR cameras also offer advanced continuous autofocus tracking systems that can keep up with fast-moving subjects. These systems use predictive algorithms to anticipate the subject’s movement and adjust the focus accordingly. Many high-end DSLRs offer advanced tracking modes, such as Eye AF, which can lock onto a subject’s eye and keep it in focus even if the subject moves around the frame.

Low-Light Performance

Another advantage of the PDAF system in digital SLR cameras is their superior low-light performance. The dedicated sensor in the PDAF system allows the camera to focus in low-light conditions without the need for a pre-flash or other assistive methods. This means that you can capture sharp and well-focused images in situations where other cameras may struggle.

In conclusion, the faster autofocus performance of digital SLR cameras is a significant advantage for photographers who want to capture sharp and well-focused images, especially when shooting fast-moving subjects or in low-light conditions. The dedicated PDAF system and advanced tracking modes make digital SLR cameras a top choice for sports, wildlife, and low-light photography.

4K Video Recording

Digital SLR cameras are renowned for their exceptional still image quality, but they also offer the capability to record high-quality video. One of the most significant advantages of owning a digital SLR camera is the ability to capture 4K video.

What is 4K Video Recording?

4K video recording refers to the ability of a camera to capture video footage at a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, which is four times the resolution of 1080p Full HD video. This high resolution provides a level of detail and clarity that is not possible with lower resolutions.

Why is 4K Video Recording Important?

4K video recording is important for several reasons. Firstly, it allows you to capture professional-grade video footage that can be used for a variety of purposes, including commercial projects, documentaries, and even feature films. Additionally, the high resolution of 4K video ensures that your footage will look great on large screens, such as TVs and movie theaters.

Benefits of 4K Video Recording

There are several benefits to recording video in 4K resolution. One of the most significant benefits is the ability to crop and zoom into your footage without losing image quality. This is because 4K video has a much higher resolution than lower resolutions, which means that you can crop and zoom into your footage without losing detail or clarity.

Another benefit of 4K video recording is the ability to create slow-motion effects. Since 4K video has a higher frame rate than lower resolutions, you can create slow-motion effects by playing the footage back at a slower speed. This can add a unique visual effect to your videos and make them more engaging.

How to Record 4K Video with a Digital SLR Camera

To record 4K video with a digital SLR camera, you will need to ensure that your camera is capable of recording at this resolution. Many modern digital SLR cameras have the capability to record 4K video, but it is important to check the specifications of your camera before purchasing it.

Once you have confirmed that your camera can record 4K video, you will need to ensure that you have a suitable memory card and enough storage space to accommodate your footage. It is also important to use a tripod to ensure that your footage is stable and shake-free.

In conclusion, 4K video recording is a significant advantage of owning a digital SLR camera. It allows you to capture professional-grade video footage with a level of detail and clarity that is not possible with lower resolutions. If you are considering purchasing a digital SLR camera, it is important to ensure that it has the capability to record 4K video, and to have a suitable memory card and enough storage space to accommodate your footage.

The Disadvantages of Owning a Digital SLR Camera

Cost

Digital SLR cameras can be expensive, with prices ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars. This initial investment can be a significant barrier for many individuals who are interested in purchasing a digital SLR camera. Additionally, the cost of lenses, accessories, and other equipment can quickly add up, making the overall investment even more substantial.

While it is true that high-end digital SLR cameras can be quite expensive, it is important to consider the long-term benefits of investing in this type of camera. Digital SLR cameras offer superior image quality and greater control over settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, which can result in stunning photographs. Furthermore, the investment in a digital SLR camera can be justified by the potential resale value of the camera and its accessories, which can hold their value well over time.

In conclusion, while the cost of a digital SLR camera can be a significant investment, it is important to consider the long-term benefits and potential resale value of the camera. For those who are serious about photography and willing to invest in high-quality equipment, a digital SLR camera can be a worthwhile investment.

Weight and Size

One of the primary disadvantages of owning a digital SLR camera is the weight and size of the equipment. Digital SLR cameras are generally heavier and bulkier than point-and-shoot cameras, which can make them inconvenient to carry around.

In addition to the weight and size of the camera body, digital SLR cameras also require the purchase of additional lenses and accessories, which can further add to the overall weight and size of the equipment. This can make it difficult for photographers to transport their equipment, especially when traveling or shooting on location.

Furthermore, the weight and size of digital SLR cameras can also make them difficult to handle during long periods of shooting. The weight of the camera can cause hand fatigue, and the size of the camera can make it difficult to hold steady during low-light shooting or when using longer lenses.

Overall, the weight and size of digital SLR cameras can be a significant disadvantage for photographers who need to transport their equipment frequently or shoot for extended periods of time. However, there are some ways to mitigate these issues, such as investing in a high-quality camera bag or using a tripod to stabilize the camera during shooting.

Learning Curve

Owning a digital SLR camera can be a significant investment, not just financially but also in terms of time and effort. One of the biggest challenges that many photographers face when transitioning from a point-and-shoot camera to a digital SLR is the learning curve. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to the learning curve associated with digital SLR cameras:

• Technical Knowledge: Digital SLR cameras are more complex than point-and-shoot cameras, and they require a certain level of technical knowledge to operate effectively. Photographers need to understand concepts such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and focus, which can be overwhelming at first.
• Menu Systems: Digital SLR cameras often have complex menu systems that can be difficult to navigate, especially for those who are not familiar with photography terminology. It may take some time to understand the various settings and how they affect the final image.
• Composition: Composition is a critical aspect of photography, and digital SLR cameras offer more control over composition than point-and-shoot cameras. This can be both exciting and intimidating, as photographers must consider factors such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, and depth of field to create compelling images.
• Post-Processing: Digital SLR cameras produce raw files, which require post-processing to bring out the best in the image. This can be a daunting task for those who are not familiar with photo editing software, and it may require some time to learn the basics of post-processing.

Overall, the learning curve associated with digital SLR cameras can be steep, but it is also an opportunity for photographers to expand their knowledge and skills. With practice and experience, photographers can master the technical aspects of digital SLR cameras and create stunning images that showcase their creativity and vision.

Accessories Required

Owning a digital SLR camera requires additional investments in accessories that are not needed for a regular point-and-shoot camera. Here are some of the essential accessories that one needs to consider:

• Lenses: Digital SLR cameras come with a kit lens, but to capture high-quality images, one needs to invest in additional lenses. Lenses can range from wide-angle to telephoto and can cost from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
• Flash: A built-in flash may not always be sufficient, and investing in an external flash unit can enhance the quality of the images taken in low-light conditions.
• Tripod: Taking images in low light or in conditions with a long exposure can lead to camera shake, which can be resolved by using a tripod.
• Memory Cards: High-capacity memory cards are necessary to store the images taken by a digital SLR camera. These cards can cost upwards of $100 and are necessary to store high-resolution images.
• Bag: A camera bag is necessary to carry the camera and accessories safely. A good camera bag can cost upwards of $100 and can protect the equipment from damage.

These accessories can add up to a significant amount, and one needs to consider the budget before investing in a digital SLR camera.

Is it Worth Buying a Digital SLR Camera?

Factors to Consider Before Making a Purchase

• Your Photography Needs and Goals
• Budget and Cost Considerations
• Features and Specifications
• Brand Reputation and Customer Support
• Reviews and Recommendations from Other Photographers
• Future Upgrades and Compatibility

Your Photography Needs and Goals

Before investing in a digital SLR camera, it is important to assess your photography needs and goals. Consider the type of photography you want to pursue, whether it be landscape, portrait, sports, or wildlife photography. Think about the level of control and creativity you want over your shots, and whether a digital SLR camera can provide that.

Budget and Cost Considerations

Digital SLR cameras can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Determine your budget and consider whether you are willing to spend that much money on a camera. It is important to weigh the cost of the camera against the benefits it can provide for your photography.

Features and Specifications

Research the features and specifications of different digital SLR cameras. Consider factors such as the number of megapixels, the size of the sensor, the aperture, the ISO range, and the autofocus system. Look for a camera that has the features and specifications that align with your photography needs and goals.

Brand Reputation and Customer Support

Consider the reputation of the brand and the customer support they offer. Research the company’s history and read reviews from other photographers to determine the quality of their products and customer service.

Reviews and Recommendations from Other Photographers

Seek out reviews and recommendations from other photographers who have experience with digital SLR cameras. Listen to their feedback on the camera’s performance, reliability, and ease of use. Consider whether their experiences align with your own photography needs and goals.

Future Upgrades and Compatibility

Think about the future upgrades and compatibility of the camera. Consider whether the camera can be upgraded or updated with new features or lenses. Look for a camera that has a strong ecosystem of accessories and lenses that can be used in the future.

Budget

When considering whether or not to invest in a digital SLR camera, budget is a crucial factor to consider. While the initial cost of purchasing a digital SLR camera can be substantial, it is important to evaluate the long-term benefits and potential savings.

• Cost of the Camera: The price of a digital SLR camera can vary greatly depending on the brand, model, and features. Entry-level cameras can range from around $500 to $1,000, while mid-range and high-end cameras can cost upwards of $1,000 to $5,000 or more.
• Lens Investment: Digital SLR cameras are known for their interchangeable lens systems, which offer greater flexibility in terms of the types of shots that can be taken. However, high-quality lenses can also come with a hefty price tag, ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
• Accessories: In addition to the camera body and lenses, other accessories such as tripods, external flashes, and memory cards can add to the overall cost of investing in a digital SLR camera.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Over time, regular maintenance and repairs may be necessary to keep the camera in good working condition. This can include cleaning, lubricating, and replacing parts such as batteries and memory cards.

It is important to weigh the initial cost of investing in a digital SLR camera against the potential benefits and long-term savings. For those who are serious about photography and plan to use the camera frequently, the investment in a digital SLR camera can be well worth it. However, for those who are simply looking to take the occasional photo or do not have the budget for a high-end camera, a lower-end point-and-shoot camera may be a more practical option.

Experience and Skill Level

The decision to invest in a digital SLR camera is not one to be taken lightly. While these cameras offer numerous benefits, including improved image quality and greater creative control, they also come with a significant price tag. As such, it is important to carefully consider whether the investment is worth it based on your experience and skill level.

One factor to consider is the level of experience and skill you have with photography. If you are a beginner, you may not yet have the skills necessary to fully utilize the advanced features of a digital SLR camera. In this case, it may be more appropriate to start with a lower-end camera or a mirrorless camera, which are generally more user-friendly and less expensive.

On the other hand, if you are an experienced photographer with a solid understanding of photography concepts and techniques, you may be able to take full advantage of the advanced features offered by a digital SLR camera. In this case, the investment may be well worth it, as it will allow you to capture high-quality images and achieve greater creative control over your shots.

Ultimately, the decision to invest in a digital SLR camera should be based on your individual needs and skill level. It is important to carefully consider the costs and benefits of the investment, and to do your research to ensure that you are making an informed decision.

Purpose of the Camera

A digital single-lens reflex (SLR) camera is a versatile tool designed to meet the demands of various photography genres. It combines advanced imaging capabilities with manual controls, offering photographers greater creative freedom and professional-grade results. While many modern smartphones and point-and-shoot cameras can capture decent images, there are several reasons why a dedicated digital SLR camera might be a worthwhile investment for photographers.

Advanced Image Quality
One of the primary reasons to invest in a digital SLR camera is the superior image quality it provides. These cameras utilize a larger sensor than most consumer-grade devices, which results in better low-light performance, improved dynamic range, and more detailed images. Additionally, the interchangeable lens system allows photographers to select the optimal lens for their specific shooting situation, further enhancing image quality.

Manual Controls
Digital SLR cameras offer manual controls that allow photographers to fine-tune their settings to achieve the desired outcome. This includes adjusting aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and white balance, among others. Having complete control over these settings enables photographers to experiment with different techniques and adapt to changing lighting conditions, ultimately leading to more creative and professional-looking images.

Faster Autofocus and Shutter Speed
Another advantage of a digital SLR camera is its faster autofocus and shutter speed. This is particularly important for capturing action shots, sports, or fast-moving subjects. With quick and accurate autofocus, photographers can ensure their subjects are sharp and in focus, even when they’re moving. Additionally, a faster shutter speed allows for a wider range of exposure options, making it easier to freeze motion or capture images in low-light situations.

Professional Features
Digital SLR cameras often come with a range of professional features that cater to the needs of serious photographers. These may include in-camera RAW processing, high-resolution mode, multiple exposure options, and a host of advanced video capabilities. These features provide photographers with greater creative flexibility and the ability to produce high-quality images that meet professional standards.

Build and Durability
Lastly, digital SLR cameras are typically built with durability and ruggedness in mind. They often feature a magnesium alloy body, which provides resistance to shocks and drops. This robust construction ensures that the camera can withstand the demands of regular use and challenging shooting conditions, providing peace of mind for photographers who may be working in harsh environments.

In conclusion, a digital SLR camera offers several advantages over other types of cameras, making it a worthwhile investment for photographers seeking superior image quality, greater creative control, and professional-grade features. While the initial cost may be higher, the versatility and performance of a digital SLR camera can provide a significant return on investment for those who take their photography seriously.

Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews

When considering the purchase of a digital SLR camera, it is important to consider the reputation of the brand and the reviews of other customers. Here are some factors to consider:

• Brand Reputation: Some brands have a reputation for producing high-quality cameras that are known for their durability, performance, and features. Brands such as Canon, Nikon, and Sony are well-known for their digital SLR cameras and have a reputation for producing reliable and high-quality products. It is important to research the brand and its history to determine if it is a reputable brand that produces reliable products.
• Customer Reviews: Reading customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the performance and features of a particular camera. Reviews can provide information on the camera’s image quality, ease of use, and reliability. It is important to read both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective on the camera’s strengths and weaknesses. Reviews can also provide information on the camera’s durability and customer support, which are important factors to consider when making a purchase.

In conclusion, when considering the purchase of a digital SLR camera, it is important to consider the brand reputation and customer reviews. Researching the brand and reading customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the camera’s performance, features, and reliability. It is important to read both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective on the camera’s strengths and weaknesses.

FAQs

1. What is a digital SLR camera?

A digital SLR (single-lens reflex) camera is a type of camera that uses a digital sensor to capture images. Unlike a point-and-shoot camera, a digital SLR camera has an interchangeable lens system, which allows the user to switch out lenses to suit different shooting situations. This gives the user more control over the image and allows for greater creativity in photography.

2. What are the benefits of using a digital SLR camera?

One of the main benefits of using a digital SLR camera is the ability to change lenses. This allows the user to use different lenses for different shooting situations, such as a wide-angle lens for landscapes or a telephoto lens for sports or wildlife photography. Another benefit is the ability to shoot in manual mode, which gives the user full control over the exposure settings. This allows for more creative control and the ability to achieve a specific look or effect in an image.

3. How do digital SLR cameras compare to smartphones in terms of image quality?

While smartphones have come a long way in terms of image quality, digital SLR cameras still offer a significant advantage. The larger sensors in digital SLR cameras allow for better low-light performance and greater dynamic range, which means that images have more detail in both the shadows and highlights. Additionally, the interchangeable lens system allows for greater control over the image and the ability to use specialized lenses for specific shooting situations.

4. Are digital SLR cameras expensive?

Digital SLR cameras can vary in price, but they tend to be more expensive than point-and-shoot cameras or smartphones. However, they are often worth the investment for serious photographers who want greater control over their images and the ability to shoot in manual mode. Digital SLR cameras can also be used for professional work, such as weddings or commercial photography, where the quality and versatility of the camera is essential.

5. Is it worth the investment to buy a digital SLR camera?

If you are a serious photographer who wants greater control over your images and the ability to shoot in manual mode, then a digital SLR camera is definitely worth the investment. While they can be expensive, they offer a significant advantage in terms of image quality and versatility compared to smartphones or point-and-shoot cameras. Additionally, the ability to use specialized lenses and shoot in different shooting situations makes digital SLR cameras a valuable tool for photographers of all levels.