A digital SLR provides different control than a compact digital camera.
The ease of digital cameras appeals to all levels of photographic expertise, and the camera types most popular with the typical consumer are the compact, point-and-shoot camera and the SLR camera. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages; deciding which one to buy depends upon your personal wants, needs and intended usage of the camera. Although the two are similar in function, their total abilities and features differ.
Lens Options
The first main, obvious difference between a compact and SLR camera pertains to the lens. A SLR camera boasts interchangeable lenses, while the compact camera's lens is built-in to the camera itself. The changeable nature of an SLR lens allows for a wider range of use as needed, such as a wide lens for landscape images or a long lens for nature photography. The fixed lens of the compact camera offer less versatility, but it retracts into the camera body when turned off.
Size and Weight
An advantage the compact camera holds over an SLR one is its size. Designed as a quick, easily carried piece of photography equipment, the point-and-shoot digital compact camera slips easily into a pocket or purse, whereas the digital SLR typically requires a camera bag to carry it and the various accessories required for use.
Versatility
A camera's versatility refers to its ability to adapt and shoot in different scenarios, such as a well-lit outdoor scene or dimly-lit room. While a compact camera provides all-in-one functionality, this one-size-fits-all design displays limitations in its ability to shoot in darker conditions. While it does have scene modes and some degree of program-ability, an SLR camera allows greater control and refining of settings for each situation.
Ease of Use
With its pre-programmed scene modes, easy user interface and simple controls, a compact camera allows even the most novice photographer to start snapping away almost straight out of the box. Most digital SLR cameras also offer scene modes, in addition to more features, settings and menu options, which require additional time and photographic knowledge to use and understand.
Image Quality
Image quality refers to the clarity and sharpness of the image, not the megapixel count. A DSLR image sensor, the part responsible for image quality, is physically larger than the sensor in a compact camera. This allows for more detail in the finished image.
User Growth Potential
For those budding photographers who wish to learn and grow their knowledge and skill in photography, a digital SLR camera offers more growth potential than a compact. The ability to adjust the different photography settings -- such as ISO, white balance and aperture -- allows greater control over the camera and better ability in capturing images in conditions that a compact would find difficult.
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