Key Points
- DSLR cameras offer impressive image quality due to their larger sensors, resulting in less blur and noise compared to point-and-shoot cameras.
- The ability to use interchangeable lenses allows for greater flexibility and specialization in photography.
- DSLRs have faster focusing and better low light shooting capabilities, making them ideal for capturing clear images in various conditions.
- Customizable aperture settings and adjustable shutter speeds provide more creative control for photographers.
- DSLR cameras are known for their sturdiness, durability, and long battery life, making them a reliable choice for professional photography.
Thanks to technology, the line between amateur and pro gear is getting hazy. Point-and-shoot cameras are now on par with hobbyist DSLRs. But, for the average shutterbug, the million-dollar question is: which one should I buy?
DSLR, or digital single-lens reflex, offers the best of both worlds, blending the old-school SLR with a digital image sensor. Those cameras come with an impressive collection of lenses. They allow photographers to work their camera’s magic to capture great shots.
DSLR cameras have mirrors that bounce the light from the lens into an optical viewfinder. This is how you can peep your subject straight through the lens. Once you hit the shutter, the mirror bounces, and the shutter slides open. The light beelines to the imaging sensor through the lens, where the magic happens, and a photo is born.
Of course, everything works seamlessly, so you never notice a hitch while taking photographs. If you are trying to figure out what makes DSLRs special, here are eight compelling reasons to buy a DSLR camera today.
Impressive Image Quality
Megapixels aren’t the only thing that makes a great picture, but the size of the sensor. And with DSLRs, looks can certainly be deceiving. More megapixels do not necessarily mean better image quality.
DSLRs’ bigger picture sensors are the primary reason for their high-quality photos. These sensors are bigger than the typical point-and-shoot camera sensors. The distinction is striking when comparing photos taken with the two camera types. With their bigger sensor size, DSLRs can take photos with less blur and noise than other cameras.
DSLRs are worth their weight in gold compared to compact digital cameras. They have a higher resolution, more color depth, and dynamic range. Images come out with richer colors and higher contrast, which is why they are all the rage now.
Ability to Use Interchangeable Lenses
The flexibility to switch out lenses for different scenarios is a huge plus for DSLR cameras. In photography, each lens has its own unique set of qualities because of its specialized design. For example, telephoto lenses allow you to zoom in on faraway subjects, making them perfect for photographing animals.
However, macro lenses are ideal for getting more minor details, such as flowers or insects. A specialist macro lens may produce life-size and exceptionally detailed images at a 1:1 magnification ratio. Also, some lenses work best for taking portraits and other types of photography.
Faster Focusing
Shutter lag occurs because a single image sensor in a point-and-shoot camera takes the picture and focuses on the subject. Focusing is quicker and more accurate in DSLRs since they use two different sensors for each function.
In DLSRs, the image sensor takes the picture, while the phase detection sensor keeps everything sharp. Because of this division of work, DSLRs can shoot quickly and continuously. For instance, a point-and-shoot camera might not focus quickly enough when taking pictures of birds in flight. However, DSLRs’ superior focus acquisition time means you can get clear images in a pinch.
You can also manually change the focus by twisting the focus ring on the lens barrel. As a result, you get more precision in adjusting focus. Furthermore, DSLRs often have more autofocus points than compact cameras. This greatly enhances their overall performance by increasing the likelihood of establishing correct focus in autofocus mode.
Better Low Light Shooting
DSLRs have better low light sensitivity as their bigger sensors can gather more light. This eliminates artificial lighting in low light situations, allowing photographers to take clear pictures even when shooting indoors or at night.
Harsh shadows and artificial lighting are typical results of using flash or artificial lighting, which can detract from the overall aesthetic of a photograph. Moreover, DSLRs’ high ISO performance improves their low light capabilities by reducing noise and maintaining image quality in dim conditions.
A DSLR can capture photographs with balanced exposure, true colors, and little noise, even in low light conditions. The result is a more polished and professional portfolio piece. This is especially useful for event photography, where soft, ambient light is preferred over the harsh illumination of a flash.
Adjustable Aperture Settings
Another major perk of DSLRs is their customizable aperture settings. The aperture determines how much light reaches the image sensor and how good the final photograph will be. DSLRs allow users to adjust the aperture manually, giving them more leeway to express their individuality than point-and-shoot cameras.
Photographers using a DSLR can take great portraits with a pleasant depth of field by adjusting the aperture. The depth of field is the region of focus in an image, while the surrounding areas are out of focus. But, to ensure your subject and background are in focus, you should use an aperture with a bigger f-number (smaller aperture).
Adjustable Shutter Speed
The shutter speed refers to how long it takes for the shutter to open and do its job. If you buy a DSLR camera, you can adjust this speed per your needs.
DSLRs allow photographers to manually adjust shutter speed settings based on the intended shot, while point-and-shoot cameras often have only automatic settings. With this function, photographers can intentionally freeze fast-moving subjects or add motion blur.
For artistic impact, you can use a slower shutter speed to introduce motion blur into your photos. Photographs of moving water, light trails at night, or purposeful subject motion are typical applications of this method.
Presence of an Optical Viewfinder
Unlike the digital viewfinders in many high-end point-and-shoot cameras, DSLR cameras’ optical viewfinders have several advantages.
A DSLR’s optical viewfinder shows the scene as it appears to the camera in high resolution and real-time, allowing for pinpoint focusing on moving subjects. Having the added steadiness of an optical viewfinder is excellent while taking shots.
Photographers can get better control and eliminate camera wobble by putting the camera closer to the eye and using the body’s stability against the face, resulting in crisper photographs. This is a huge benefit when shooting in low light or with a longer focal length, where the slightest camera movement might affect image clarity.
Sturdiness and Durability of DSLRs
DSLR cameras are superior to point-and-shoot cameras in terms of build quality and durability. Due to their solid construction, DSLRs can withstand greater abuse than other cameras. Their top-notch construction guarantees they will survive the rigorous circumstances of professional photography.
Weather sealing is standard on high-end DSLRs, making them impervious to dust, moisture, and even light rain. Now photographers may brave harsh weather and other environmental hazards without fear of damaging their DSLRs. In addition, DSLRs include rubberized coatings that make holding the camera easy and pleasant, even in high-stress conditions.
Speaking of durability, it also applies to the shutter mechanism on DSLRs. Standard measures of shutter reliability include the expected lifetime and the maximum number of clicks. Some inexpensive DSLRs have shutters certified for only a few thousand clicks, whereas more advanced versions can handle as many as 50,000. Because of its durability, photographers can use their DSLRs for long periods without worrying about the shutter giving out.
Long Battery Life
DSLRs have a bigger battery capacity than compact cameras, allowing photographers to shoot longer without recharging or replacing the battery.
Compared to the smaller batteries available in compact cameras, the capacity of the batteries found in DSLRs is much greater. DSLR cameras often have batteries with double the capacity of a point-and-shoot camera’s 700mAh battery.
A typical entry-level DSLR may capture between two hundred and five hundred pictures before recharging. However, the number of photos per charge can differ based on factors like the camera’s settings, features like Live View or image stabilization, and the battery’s age.
Buying the Best DSLR Camera Today
Once you realize the benefits of a good quality DSLR camera, it is pretty tempting to look for the best one for your needs. Here are a few attractive options to consider:
Best Overall DSLR Camera: Nikon D850
- BSI full-frame image sensor
- 45 megapixels resolution
- Shoot 4K Ultra HD videos
- Exceptional dynamic range
- Tilting touch screen, focus shift mode
- Impressive battery performance
If you are looking for an absolute beast of a DSLR that easily outperforms advanced mirrorless cameras, we recommend Nikon D850.
The Nikon D850 is one of the top DSLRs available and is on par with other professional-grade models, such as the Nikon D6. It can capture still photos at a resolution of 45.7 megapixels. Moreover, it can shoot up to 9 frames per second (7 frames per second without a battery grip). Despite its slower buffering speed, this camera stands out due to its high resolution and ability to shoot at 9fps with large files.
Although the D850 isn’t cheap, it is a valuable investment for individuals who frequently switch between still photography and video recording. This camera supports 4K UHD and produces breathtaking 8K time-lapse videos. It’s also highly versatile and can perform exceptionally well in any photography.
You also get great results from the D850 if you are interested in astrophotography. These include backlit buttons, exceptional low-light autofocus, and impressive ISO noise management. The device is compatible with various F-mount lenses and can cater to various requirements.
D850 is also durable and comes with weather sealing. You can use it in any environment without the risk of dust or water damage. The battery grip is also protected. This feature makes it ideal for outdoor photography, such as astrophotography and observing the sky in optimal locations.
Best DSLR Camera for Beginners: Cannon EOS Rebel SL3
- 3.0 inch Vari-Angle touchscreen
- Light and compact DSLR camera
- Fast, accurate dual-pixel CMOS AF
- Capture videos at 4K UHD 2160p
- Built-in Wi-Fi
We recommend Canon EOS Rebel SL3 for beginners searching for a DLSR with a small form factor and an outstanding APS-C image sensor.
You can indeed find less expensive crop sensor cameras on the market. But the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / 250D is the top choice. This is due to its 24.1MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor. These features result in high-quality, low-noise photos with vibrant colors.
Although the viewfinder offers only nine AF points, you can increase this number to 143 by enabling the live view feature on the rear vari-angle touchscreen. The camera’s automatic selection feature allows for this expansion.
Moreover, the Rebel SL3 is quite helpful in low-light conditions. This is due to its maximum expanded ISO sensitivity of 51200 and autofocus working range of -4EV. It works even better when paired with a lens with built-in image stabilization. If you are into astrophotography, be prepared to feel truly amazed by the results you get on this DSLR from Canon.
Best DSLR Camera for Professionals: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
- 30.4 Megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor at 30/24p
- Multiple video options (Full HD and HD)
- LCD monitor with a touchscreen interface
- Up to 7fps shooting speed
- Excellent image quality
If you are a professional photographer looking for a DSLR known for its speed and reliability, look no further than Canon EOS 5D Mark IV.
Despite being on the market for over five years, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV remains popular among professionals. It is frequently called a “workhorse” due to its exceptional durability and adaptability.
It is a must-have due to the high quality of its images, including 30.4MP stills and 4K DCI video for cinematic movie quality. The camera features a bright optical viewfinder with a large, detailed rear screen. However, it would have been better if the screen was tiltable, but it is not a deal-breaker.
Additionally, the camera has USB 3.0, HDMI out, and headphone outputs that allow for the attachment of peripherals. The camera has a microphone input, flash connection, WiFi, and NFC technology to facilitate wireless shooting and easy image sharing. It has all the bells and whistles needed to impress any professional photographer.
Best DSLR Camera for Low Light Photos: Nikon D780
- 7fps continuous &12fps silent shooting
- Full frame 4K UHD
- 24.5 megapixel BSI sensor
- Takes clear low-light shots
- Tilting LCD touchscreen
- Wireless connectivity via SnapBridge app
If you are overly concerned about the low light performance of a DSLR, you should opt for Nikon D780, a true low light beast that is perfect for astrophotography.
The Nikon D780 is a noteworthy successor to the highly acclaimed D750. It is intended for professional photographers and enthusiasts who have a sufficient budget. Although smaller than most DSLRs, this camera has impressive features and a highly detailed rear screen with 2359K dots.
In addition, it has a remarkable burst speed of 12 frames per second. Therefore, it is ideal for capturing wildlife, sports, and action shots. This camera is suitable for videography enthusiasts as it can shoot stunning 4K UHD video with 10-bit N-log recording and has a dynamic range of 12 stops. Would you like to have a slow motion? Not a problem at all. The camera can shoot at 120 fps. And this allows for some impressive slow-motion footage at five times slower than normal speed.
Moreover, the D780 has exceptional performance in low-light conditions. The camera’s ISO range is impressive, reaching up to 204,800. Additionally, the noise reduction algorithms are highly effective in maintaining the cleanliness and lack of noise in your images. Overall, this camera is exceptional, particularly for astrophotography, but it excels in all areas of photography.
Using the Best DSLR Camera: What Is It Like?
Getting your hands on the best DSLR camera is like entering a world of endless possibilities and razor-sharp accuracy. There is nothing quite like the solid, pro-grade heft of a camera in your hand, the sweet snap of the shutter, and the fine-tuned manual dials that make a shutterbug’s heart sing. Looking through the viewfinder provides a clear and detailed perspective. This lets you capture life’s brief and significant moments precisely and subtly. The level of detail and color reproduction is astonishing when you glimpse the result on the bright, high-resolution LCD screen. It feels like bringing a piece of reality to eternal digital life. The experience is empowering and artistically fulfilling, so you should consider buying a DSLR camera today.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Customdesigner/Shutterstock.com.
