Deciding whether to purchase a DSLR or a point-and-shoot camera is like the difference between buying a stereo or a radio. Both provide music (or in this case, photos), but the qualtiy coming from the two is vastly different. Still, each type of camera has its place. It's up to the user to determine which is a better fit. Although there are many differences between DSLR and point-and-shoot cameras, there are five differences that stand out.

1. Cost

The amount of money needed to invest in a quality product will be reflected in the camera purchased. While point-and-shoot camera can start at less than $100, a DSLR requires an investment of $400 or more, with well equipped models running into the upper hundreds, even thousands of dollars. However, like a good car, DSLRs are frequently traded in as photographers change cameras or improve their equipment. While a point-and-shoot camera is completely self-contained (that is, it requires no extra gear), DSLRs require lens, filters, and offer a host of additional accessories that enable photographers to use these camera in ways far superior to point-and-shoots.

2. Quality

While point-and-shoot cameras have made a lot of advances in recent years, the quality of photographs they produce can never rival those taken with a DSLR. What many photographers fail to consider, however, is that it is still the eye of the photographer that produces a great shot. Even having the best camera in the world does not guarantee outstanding photos. However, with a point-and-shoot camera, there is a finite level to how far a photographer can advance. For those taking family and vacation photos, many will find a point-and-shoot camera is perfectly adequate in quality. For those who aspire to take photos rivaling art, a DSLR is mandatory.

3. Portability and Flexability

The biggest advantage that point-and-shoot cameras have when compared with DSLRs is their easy transportability. Thrown in a pocket or a purse, the point-and-shoot is easy to carry and use at a moment's notice. DSLRs come with (and therefore, require the transportation of) a lot more equipment that necessitates a camera bag. Despite recent strides in the camera business to make DSLRs smaller and more flexible, point-and-shoot cameras have the edge.

4. Grow with Your Camera

For those who seek to improve and expand their photographic skills and range, a DSLR (while more complicated to operate) allows photographers to improve their skills as they learn their camera's capabilities. By adding new equipment, testing new techniques, working with online photo manipulation programs, photographers can grow into their DSLRs. Those with point-and-shoot cameras can take good basic shots, but will always be limited by their equipment at the end of the day.

5. Retaining Value

Although all cameras can find a market in online auctions or at resale to local camera stores, DSLRs retain their overall value longer. Point-and-shoots are more readily available at cheaper price points, and as a result, most people prefer to buy new than buy a used camera. With a DSLR, trade-in and resale values are maintained. Like automobiles, DSLRs lose a certain value when you drive them off the lot, or in the case of cameras, take your first shot. However, like classic cars, they also maintain an underlying value that can be used as a photographer trades up to new models a year or more later. The secondary market for DSLRs is also much larger.

In short, assessing your own needs and aspirations as a photographer will determine which camera-point-and-shoot or DSLR-is right for your needs.

Learn more about this author, Christine Zibas.
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