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DSLR cameras generally have a higher image quality than point-and-shoot cameras, and for sometime were the preserve of the professional. Increasingly, the price of DSLR cameras is dropping, and manufacturers are extending their ranges to accommodate amateur photographers and those on tighter budgets. Camera specifications can seem confusing at first glance, but there are several key features, options and extras you should bear in mind when selecting your next DSLR.

1. Size of the Camera, Sensor and LCD

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One of the first and most basic considerations when selecting a DSLR is the overall size and weight of the camera. A variety of sizes are available, so choose one to suit the type of photography you plan to concentrate on. With studio-based portraiture and similar types of work the weight of a camera is less important, while travel and wildlife photography, for instance, may require lighter models.

In a DSLR camera the image quality is influenced by the size of the image sensor. In general terms, the larger the sensor the better the image, because a larger surface area allows for larger pixels. Different cameras can have the same resolution of megapixels fitted on different sizes of image sensor; a smaller sensor means smaller pixels, increasing the image noise and producing a fuzzier picture quality in comparison to larger versions.

DSLR cameras have a reflex mirror and optical viewfinder, meaning what you see is what you get. They also have an LCD screen to view-find and review images. Consider the size of the LCD when selecting your camera since a slightly larger screen can make a lot of difference in image visibility.

2. Resolution, Focus Systems and Optical Zoom

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DSLR Cameras today commonly have an image resolution of between six and ten megapixels. The choice of resolution depends on how you intend to use the photographs, and bigger is not necessarily better. Six megapixels should be sufficient for small prints or using the images for Internet and email; ten megapixels is only needed if your intention is to heavily edit the photos in post-production or produce large-scale prints.

Most contemporary DSLR cameras achieve a high level of focus in auto focus (AF) mode but there are variations to look out for. Different models have different numbers of AF zones distributed across the image frame; generally the more zones the better the AF performance.

There are two types of AF zone: cross and linear. Linear zones focus detail in one direction, either horizontal or vertical, while cross AF zones are better since they focus detail both horizontally and vertically. The majority of DSLR cameras use cross-type focussing for AF zones in the frame’s centre, but some models employ only linear-type zones in other parts of the frame.

Camera advertising often boasts the total zoom, a figure reached by multiplying the digital and optical zoom. The digital zoom magnifies the image digitally, as the name implies, while the optical zoom works by physically altering the lens position. The optical zoom is the number to look for. High zoom lenses have a 12x zoom, but a 4x lens is agreeable with most photographers’ requirements.

3. ISO Settings and Flash

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DSLR cameras offer a good range of ISO settings, the equivalent of film speed in old-fashioned cameras, adjustable to suit lighting conditions. Some DLSR cameras, however, offer far higher ISO ratings, enabling photography in low level lighting.

Low-end DSLR cameras sometimes include a built-in flash, while higher models have a hotshoe so an external flash may be attached.

4. Shutter Speed, Burst Mode and Semi Automatic Mode

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Most DSLR models provide a good range of shutter speeds, but if you’re interested in capturing fast action or sports photography look for a camera with a higher maximum shutter speed.

Another consideration for sport and action photographers is the Burst Mode. This feature enables a very fast burst of images by holding down the shutter release, sometimes a series of many images per second. Different models have varying rates and number of images possible in each of these bursts.

Many DSLR cameras have automatic and semi-automatic modes for specific types of photography (portrait, landscape, night etc.). Low-end models tend to offer semi-auto modes, while the more professional cameras demand manual control adjustments to meet shooting conditions.

5. Facial Recognition and Anti-Shake

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Facial recognition technology detects a face, or multiple faces, within the image frame and corrects the light and colour levels accordingly.

Many DSLR cameras use anti-shake technology in lenses, while some newer models feature image stabilisation (IS) technology built into the camera body. There are three types of IS system: optical and mechanical IS, which physically counter shake in the photographer’s hand, and digital IS, which enhances the image quality when the subject is moving. Some cameras combine optical or mechanical IS with digital IS, offering the advantages of both systems.

6. Dust Protection and Connectivity

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It’s essential to keep your DSLR clean and dust-free, especially avoiding contamination of the image sensor. Some models feature the useful addition of dust protection and self-cleansing systems.

Most DSLR cameras use USB to transfer images to computers and printers, but there are also options for FireWire and WiFi connectivity to take into consideration.

7. In-Camera Editing

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While professionally minded photographers will apply digital post-production to their images, many DSLR designs feature in-camera editing. These enhancement and editing tools may include red eye reduction, blemish removal, cropping, zoom and panoramic image stitching.

About the Author

Tom Walker is a UK based writer and designer who works with a specialist provider of HP laser toner, inks, paper and other printing accessories. You can read his other creative writing on CreativeCloud where he waxes lyrical on the subjects of advertising and the arts.

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