Choosing the Best SLR Digital Camera

For many looking to take the next step in their photography endeavors, the digital SLR camera is a logical choice. For those that don't already know, SLR stands for "single-lens reflex," which refers the internal mirror mechanism that allows the photographer to see the complete image before the shutter is clicked.

Unlike older point-and-shoot style cameras where the viewfinder image may not match the final image, an SLR system allows the user to see the image as it will be captured on the digital media. While all modern point-and-shoot digital cameras contain a LCD screen that essentially serves the same purpose as an SLR's mirror system, there are still several distinct advantages that a SLR has over any other camera type.

Amateur and professional photographers alike continue to choose the SLR for the simple fact that no LCD screen can match the visual superiority of a direct-viewed SLR viewfinder.

Perhaps the biggest advantage of an SLR camera is the ability it offers to interchange lenses of different types to achieve an array of different results. Although many fixed-lens cameras contain an outstanding general purpose lens, this one lens cannot accomplish all things.

This is particularly true when the goal is to capture images in unusual situations (low light, extreme telephoto) or when performing macro or other specialty photography. So, what is the best SLR digital camera option for you?

This is a question that can only be answered through careful analysis of your individual situation. The points listed below should help to get you on the right track.

1. Identify Your Price Range - as with anything you're looking to research, it's important to first identify your desired price range. The last thing you want to do is to get excited about a particular camera only to realize that it's out of your price range.

Fortunately, there are SLR's at every price range that will satisfy the basics of image capture. Prices typically go up based on specific requirements (resolution, speed, crop factor, etc.). Typically, an entry level SLR camera is priced at around $500-700.

2. Intended Usage - there is no point in spending $5000 on the most advanced full frame digital SLR if you intend to use the camera to take casual photos of your children or friends. An entry level camera will perform such tasks extremely well and will be priced much more attractively.

Ask yourself the following questions - what types of photos do I typically take? What types of photography might interest me in the near future? How important is portability and camera weight? What size prints will I be printing?

3. Brand preference - I started taking photos using the Canon system and have since purchased many Canon SLR cameras. While Canon certainly isn't the only producer of high quality cameras, their cameras have a certain look and feel that I've grown accustomed to.

I can pick up just about any Canon camera and instantly grasp how to operate it. Be sure to try out several different brands to find one that works for you. The camera should feel right in your hands and the button layouts should made logical sense for you.

By following the simple suggestions mentioned above you will have an advantage over other consumers that are in the market for a digital SLR camera, and you will be less inclined to make an irrational purchase that you will later regret. For more information on cameras and specifically on pink digital cameras, please visit http://pinkdigitalcamerareview.com