Some DSLR cameras are made primarily of plastic, while others have a magnesium aluminum alloy body. A lower f-stop number equals a larger or wider aperture, which can be a little confusing. The aperture of the lens is designated by an f-stop number. Lenses with wider apertures are considered to be of higher quality. ApertureĪperture refers to the size of the opening in the lens that allows light to travel through it and strike the image sensor. This measurement is often provided in frames per second, or FPS. The burst rate of a DSLR camera refers to how many photos it can record in a short time. Knowing the jargon associated with DSLRs will help you successfully choose a model that will meet your needs. Other DSLR terms to knowīeyond the image sensor, it’s important to understand certain terms related to DSLRs. These markets are starting to get some crossover though, with entry-level full-frame cameras and advanced crop-frame cameras becoming more prevalent. The 1.3x factor is the largest sensor, while 1.6x is the smallest sensor.ĭX cameras are generally considered more consumer/hobbyist and FX cameras more semi-pro and prosumer. The size of a crop frame sensor is listed as a “multiple factor.” Nikon DX sensors have a 1.5x factor, while Canon crop-frame sensors are available in both 1.3x and 1.6x factors. Nikon uses the term “DX” to identify cameras with crop-frame sensors. Nikon uses the term “FX” to identify cameras with full-frame sensors, while Canon just calls them “full-frame.” Crop-frame image sensorsĬrop-frame image sensors are smaller than full-frame image sensors. Measuring 24x36 mm in size, full-frame image sensors are the largest available in cameras produced for everyday use. Not surprisingly, DSLRs with larger image sensors also tend to cost more. Image sensor sizeĪs a general rule, the larger the image sensor, the better the photograph quality.
It then turns that measurement into the digital bits used to create the photograph. The image sensor is a computer chip that measures the light from the scene. When it comes to understanding DSLR cameras, you must first start with the image sensor. Don't get one that's too impractical or complicated for what you will use it for. Investing in an expensive camera - and then never using it because it’s too complicated, too heavy, or not right for what you want to use it for - is an unfortunate problem experts like Matt often see. Therefore, it’s tough for a beginner to justify paying a high price for one of these models. They also tend to carry the highest price tags.Įxpensive semi-pro/pro DSLR cameras typically have more advanced features than most beginners can handle. These cameras have the largest image sensors and the fastest image processors. High-level photographers will be looking for DSLRs in this category. They’re nice “bridge” cameras for those looking to move up from an entry-level DSLR.
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They have plenty of features for manual control. These are mid-range DSLR cameras that appeal to both inexperienced and intermediate-level photographers. They have low price points and are relatively easy to use. These are entry-level DSLR cameras aimed at those new to DSLR photography.
And experienced photographers probably wouldn’t want a simple DSLR that fails to offer advanced manual control features. The first thing you need to know when shopping for a new DSLR camera is that every model won’t fit the needs of every photographer.įor example, some cameras carry too many features - and too high of a price tag - for some photographers. The cameras in our product list range in cost, but we believe that each is worth its asking price. Priceĭepending on the features included in the camera, DSLR prices vary.
As mentioned above, our research included the evaluation of entry level, hobbyist, and professional-grade DSLRs. Some DSLRs even provide a bit of “hand holding” to aid users. People of all ability levels can now pick up a camera and capture high-quality images. In reviewing various DSLR cameras, we examined each product’s feature set and the degree to which it would (or would not) maximize versatility. To deal with different photographic situations, you must be able to make adjustments on the fly. To find the best of the best, we did just that. Image qualityĪ simple approach to analyzing any camera is the evaluation of its photographic quality. In evaluating each of the cameras in our product list, we took many factors into consideration, including the following. DSLR considerationsĪlthough most DSLR cameras share similar looks, there are quite a few differentiating features that separate them. Experienced photographers tend to use manual control modes more often. Beginners generally like to stick with auto mode. Most DSLR cameras offer both automatic and manual control shooting modes.