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How Do I Know When I Should Switch to DSLR Cameras?

Digital Camera FAQ: DSLR Photography Questions

By Kyle Schurman, About.com

Q: How do I know when I should switch to DSLR cameras?

In reality, almost anyone can make use of advanced DSLR cameras. Most models have enough automatic settings that even a beginning photographer can create good images with DSLR cameras.

However, to take advantage of all of the advanced features found in a DSLR, it's best to have some experience as a photographer. The manual-control settings on a digital SLR camera often can help you shoot a better photo than you can with fully automatic settings, but only if you know how to use the manual controls.

So, to answer the question, photographers with experience will be able to take advantage of the additional features and power in a digital SLR, meaning they'll be better able to justify the added cost of a digital SLR. If you're bored with the automatic point and shoot cameras and are ready to put in the time and effort to learn to use a more advanced camera, you're probably ready for a digital SLR.

Find more answers to common camera questions on the camera FAQ page.

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