Digital single-lens reflex cameras (DSLRs) are the fastest growing photo category for a number of reasons. DSLRs provide the ultimate in optical versatility because they have interchangeable lenses, deliver unparalleled speed--with minimal shutter lag--and can shoot rapid sequences. And, they provide sophisticated autofocus and auto-exposure systems.
Most importantly, DSLRs offer through-the-lens eye-level viewfinders (unlike point-and-shoot cameras), so you can frame the subject and hold the camera more securely.
Until recently, DSLRs were out of the price range of most consumers but all that's changed with several DSLR kits with lenses selling for under $600.
If you're thinking about buying a DSLR, here are some questions to consider first.
What brand? One of the nicest things about a DSLR is that you can, in most cases, use the lenses from your 35mm film SLR on your new digital camera, but you obviously have to select a DSLR that uses the same lens mount.
Generally, this means buying a DSLR that's the same brand as your old 35mm SLR—for example, a Nikon D40x or D80 if you have Nikon lenses; a Canon Rebel XTi if you have Canon lenses; or one of the Pentax *ist D-series models if you have Pentax lenses.
If you don't have a 35mm SLR, or you only have one lens for your present model, you don't have to restrict your choice of a DSLR to any particular brand.
What do you plan to shoot? Most DSLRs shoot rapid sequences at a considerably faster rate than the average digital point-and-shoot camera—about 3 frames per second (fps). What's more, they can shoot longer sequences because they have a larger image buffer that lets you keep shooting while the camera is processing images.
If you're into sports photography, the ability to shoot even faster--say at 5 fps--can be a big plus, but blazing speed costs extra.
If you're more likely to be shooting portraits or close-ups of flowers, there are other criteria to look for. Ask your photo retailer whether the camera has through-the-lens auto-flash with a balanced fill-flash mode or whether it can use macro lenses and a ring light.
What about the battery? DSLRs vary in battery capacity—the number of shots you can expect to take with a fully charged battery. It is a good spec to ask about when selecting your camera.
Also, consider adding an accessory vertical battery grip (nice for shooting vertical pictures such as portraits) that lets you power up with readily available AA disposable batteries in a pinch.
Check the feature set! Make sure the specific features offered on your DSLR match your shooting style. Canon's EOS 30D, targeted at enthusiasts, offers 9-point autofocus and shoots 30 full-resolution frames at 5 fps. The Olympus EVOLT E-410 provides a live view feature that lets you see the image on the LCD before you take the shot (you can't do this with most DSLRs), and has a supersonic wave filter to eliminate dust on the image sensor.
Other special features to check out: ISO range—higher ISOs such as 1,600 and 3,200 will let you shoot in low light and at action-stopping shutter speeds; auto-bracketing specs (the more settings the better); mirror lock with self-timer option; and custom functions.
What is anti-shake, and do I really need it? Anyone who uses telephoto lenses to shoot action or scenic pictures, or photographs in low light without flash, can benefit from optical anti-shake technology, which lets you take sharp handheld pictures at much slower shutter speeds than you could otherwise.
Many digital point and shoots have built-in image stabilization, but in most cases, with DSLRs, you need to use special anti-shake lenses that incorporate this feature. Nikon offers VR (vibration reduction) lenses that work on Nikon and Fujifilm DSLRs, and Canon offers IS (image stabilization) lenses that work with all digital Canon EOS SLRs.
How big are your hands? Even in this high-tech era, how well a camera fits in your hands is still a crucial factor in selecting the right model. Make sure the camera feels comfortable to hold, that the shutter-release button is properly placed for your index finger, and that its weight is well balanced when you mount the lenses you'll be using.
The proof is in the pictures! Check out camera reviews to get a handle on the plus and minus features of each model before you go shopping. Picking a DSLR is not just about how many megapixels you can get for the lowest price--it's all about the end result. That's why there's no substitute for checking out the actual results before you plunk down your money.