DSLR vs Bridge Camera

Most people will have a point & shoot digital camera somewhere. They’re ideal for carrying around in your pocket or bag. Most will take relatively good pictures, in most situations.

But what about when you want better pictures than your little point & shoot can manage? When you want clearer portraits, or close-ups of something interesting?

Maybe you want a better zoom capability than your little camera is capable of?

There used to be just one option, the SLR camera. But in recent years, we’ve seen the emergence of a new style of camera, the bridge camera. So called, because it bridges the gap between the point & shoot and the SLR, both in capabilities and, normally, price.

dslr vs bridge camera

DSLR Cameras vs Bridge Cameras

So let’s look at some of the pros and cons of both the DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) and the Bridge.

DSLR Camera

Pros

  • Optical sensor is generally better
  • Interchangeable lenses
  • Better zoom and macro capabilities

Cons

  • More expensive
  • Need to buy extra lenses
  • More to carry around
  • Need more knowledge to operate properly

Bridge Camera

Pros

  • Less expensive
  • No need for extra lenses
  • Lighter and easier to carry around
  • ‘Auto’ settings easy to start with

Cons

  • Zoom and macro capabilities are limited
  • Low light settings are generally worse

So, which should you go for?

This will depend on what you are trying to achieve in your photographs.

It also depends on how much money you’re willing or able to spend.

Bridge cameras are a very good way of getting a lot more options without spending too much. If you find that you don’t need the ability to change the settings, they have an “auto” setting, which will turn it back into a point & shoot, but better than most pocket sized ones. If you like being able to tweak the settings, then you have those options, but you will be limited. Not all bridge cameras allow full control.

DSLR cameras, although more expensive and larger and heavier to carry around, offer you the widest options and greatest capabilities. With the range of lenses and flash systems available, you can photograph anything. But don’t expect to be taking great snaps straight out of the box. It can take a long, long time to learn how to use it correctly. Also, you will want to purchase more than the lens that came with your purchase. One thing to remember here, you MUST stick to the same manufacturer when buying lenses. If you have a Canon camera, you need a Canon lens. A Nikon or Fuji lens will not fit!

In summary, if you’re frustrated by your current pocket camera, but not wanting to lug around tons of lenses and stuff, then a bridge would be ideal. If you’re looking to take professional-style photographs, then you need to go for the DSLR.

About the Author
Original article by Canon Camera Guy – http://canoncameraguy.hubpages.com/.

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