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| DSLR |
With their near-professional quality, incredible versatility and falling prices, it's no wonder many Canadians are making the leap to digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras from point-and-shoot models.
DSLRs offer much faster startup times and shutter speeds; interchangeable lenses, including support for older lenses you might own; optional manual settings (for more creative control); and perhaps most importantly, larger and more sensitive image sensors to get amazingly high-quality photos. You really can see the difference between a photo taken with a regular compact camera and one taken by a DSLR.
The cameras are increasingly accessible to non-professional photographers, thanks in part to the introduction of features familiar in a compact camera. Many now have many automatic settings; you simply press the shutter button and the picture is snapped, in focus and with the best exposure.
Most DSLRs show you what the camera sees on its LCD screen (often referred to as "live view"); in some models you can angle the LCD up or down or side to side for a better view. For example, hold the camera over your head at a concert, but angle the screen down so you can see what you're photographing. Also, some cameras have helpful guides displayed on the screen, relevant to what you're shooting at the time - the camera might give tips on the right shutter speed for a particular situation, for instance.
Finally, new DSLRs have image stabilization to steady your shot, SD memory card slots (now the universal standard), an HDMI port to connect to a television, and even high-definition video recording, so they double as camcorders.
If you're turned off by a DSLR's size or weight, there are smaller models that do away with the internal mirror and prism for a more compact body, yet still deliver breathtaking photos and support for interchangeable lenses. Sometimes these cameras are referred to as "micro four thirds" models.
You can grow into the full suite of features the camera offers when you're ready. Simply start by using the camera's automatic settings and gradually check out the many free video tutorials available on YouTube. Over time, you can tap into all the advanced functions.
After all, aren't your memories worth capturing in the best possible quality? Here are just a few of the attractive DSLR models worth considering.
Canon's EOS Rebel T3i ($999.99 with an 8-55mm IS II lens kit; canon.ca) is an 18-megapixel DSLR with full 1080p HD video recording, three-inch swivel LCD screen and a number of shooting modes, handy assists and creative filters to have some fun with your captured images. For newcomers, a new onscreen guide offers short explanations and tips when using a particular shooting mode. The camera enjoys a high ISO range of 100 to 6400 for good lowlight photography.
Nikon's D5100 ($769.95 for body only; nikon.ca) is equipped with a 16.2- megapixel CMOS sensor and complemented by an Expeed 2 processing engine for fast performance and a quick 11-point autofocus system. On the back of the camera is a three-inch LCD that rotates 180 degrees (horizontally and vertically). Along with 1080p video recording (at 24 or 30 frames per second), the D5100 has built-in modes include one for special effects.
Sony's a77 DSLR ($1,499.99 for body only), a 24.3-megapixel camera with fast Bionz image processor, three-inch TruBlack screen and the world's first OLED electronic viewfinder. While there is no shortage of manual options, amateurs can benefit from the 19-point autofocus mode and image stabilization, plus there's an onscreen help guide to learn as you shoot. Thanks to Sony's Translucent Mirror Technology, you can shoot up to 12 frames per second at full resolution. You can also shoot full 1080p videos. Canada
