Popular Camera Types

1. Point and Shoot Cameras



Point and shoot cameras are just that, you switch on, point at the subject, press the button and shoot the picture.
These are probably the most popular types of camera on the market today.
This is probably due to their simplicity yet the abundance of technological features is startling and even the beginner photographer can be sure of well exposed, colourful pictures.
The entry price of these cameras is such that they are within the grasp of most people and the price only rises in proportion to the amount of features that the camera has. This means that the simple camera is very affordable and the more technical ones will cost a bit more.


2. Bridge Cameras


These cameras sit in between the Point and Shoot and the SLR or Single Lens Reflex types of cameras.
They look like a cut down version of the SLR and have much the same array of features that the SLR has. The big difference is that they have fixed zoom lenses as opposed to the SLR’s interchangeable lenses. The lengths of the zoom on these cameras are extraordinary, with up to 26x optical zoom on some. This is equivalent to a 600+mm focal length in 35mm terms. The one thing that has to be watched out for is the amount of ‘noise’ in the photo if using high ISO numbers. From 100-400 ISO is usually terrific with well defined sharp photos. Anything upwards of 400 ISO, the noise starts to creep in and gets worse the higher ISO number you use. Just to state, NOISE is the grainy appearance that you get in a photograph.
But for anyone who does not want the expense of the SLR and Separate Lenses, then the Bridge camera is a worthy substitute.




3. SLR – Single Lens Reflex Cameras


These are by far the most popular camera for the enthusiastic photographer. Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned professional, the SLR camera reigns supreme. As well as a meaty body which bristles with features, you have an unprecedented selection of Lenses that you can use with one camera body. It really is the most versatile of cameras and with all the recent advances of digital technology there seems no end to the creativity that can be explored if using one of these.
Some of the more recent advances are increased Megapixel count, anti Blur control and Live View as well as adopting HD Video as part of the package. All in all, the most desirable camera for the enthusiast.




4. CSC Cameras (Compact Sytem Cameras)


These are a new style of camera which have just been launched.
They are a sort of hybrid camera with what is essentially a large compact chassis with an interchangeable lens.
This gives you the benefits of small (ish) camera body and the ability to use any of the array of lenses available to use. Whether this will catch on as a concept remains to be seen. The first to have them on sale were Sony with their 'NEX' range, and it will be interesting to see if the other major manufacturers follow them.