A single lens reflex (SLR) camera is an advanced type of camera often used by professional photographers and camera enthusiasts. Point-and-shoot cameras are much simpler, requiring only the push of a button to take a photo, and make more sense for novices.
Lenses
Point-and-shoot digital cameras have a lens that is part of the camera body and cannot be changed. SLR cameras have interchangeable lenses that you can switch depending on what you are taking pictures of.
Sensor Size
The image sensor is much larger in an SLR camera than it is in a point-and-shoot camera. This allows the SLR to get higher-quality images, because the pixels are not crammed as tightly.
Customization
SLR cameras allow the photographer to have much more control over the camera settings than point-and-shoot cameras. SLR cameras allow you to set the aperture, shutter speed and white balance, and you also can use an external flash.
Size
SLR cameras are significantly larger than point-and-shoot cameras, even without the lens attached. If you are looking for a camera you can put in your pocket and carry wherever you go, a point-and-shoot camera is best for you.
Photo Preview
Point-and-shoot cameras show the view of the camera on the camera's LCD screen. While some SLR cameras have incorporated this live-view function, most still require you to look through the lens to see the image you are about to take.
Cost
The cost of an SLR camera is significantly greater than the cost of a point-and-shoot. As of 2009, you can easily find a point-and-shoot camera for less than $200, while the cheapest SLR camera will cost about $500.
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