If you are shopping for a new gadget you may start to compare point and shoot digital cameras. Some of the best digital cameras, after all, are point and shoot. Keep reading to learn all about this type of digital camera, its advantages, and disadvantages.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Point-and-shoot cameras are built to be user-friendly, lightweight, durable, and perfect for amateurs.
- Sometimes called compact cameras, a point-and-shoot digital camera is available in many different types.
- Action cameras, for instance, feature a rugged and waterproof exterior, while zoom cameras include a powerful zoom lens.
What is a Point and Shoot Camera?
If you are looking to compare digital cameras, you will no doubt hear the term point-and-shoot. What does this mean? It refers to the camera’s ease of use, as consumers can simply, well, point and shoot, without having to worry about adjusting settings and the like. These cameras typically include autofocus modes for the beginner and they are on the cheaper side, light, small, and durable. The size of these cameras, as a matter of fact, is why they are occasionally referred to as compact cameras. They can include video capabilities on occasion, though mirrorless cameras and other types feature a larger sensor and other high-end features.
Insider Tip
Be sure to dive into the settings to see everything your camera has to offer, including video functionality, zoom settings, and more.
Types of Point and Shoot Cameras
There are many different sub-categories when it comes to point-and-shoot cameras, each suiting a different type of consumer.
Adventure Cameras
Adventure cameras, otherwise known as action cameras or travel cameras, are made for outdoor excursions. As such, they are extremely rugged, durable, and built to withstand the elements. This is important if you are looking to compare waterproof digital cameras, for instance. Action cameras do not allow for the use of interchangeable lenses, as their lenses are typically shielded behind protective glass. As for image quality, you can expect similar results to a traditional compact or point-and-shoot digital camera.
Advanced Compact Cameras
As the name suggests, these cameras offer high-end features above regular point-and-shoot cameras. You can expect a manual focus option, a manual exposure option, and the ability to change out lenses on the fly. These cameras are still lightweight and user-friendly, but the indeed features will result in superior image quality over regular compact cameras. They are more expensive, however, which is something to consider.
Zoom Compact Cameras
These point-and-shoot cameras include a powerful optical zoom that comes in extremely handy when attempting macro photography or when trying to shoot subjects from far away. The zoom ranges from 28-300mm, but due to the nature of the design, zoom cameras do not allow for the use of interchangeable lenses. They also tend to be more expensive than traditional point and shoots.
Warning
Check the specs before purchasing any camera to ensure you will end up with decent image quality.
F.A.Q.S
How do point-and-shoot digital cameras work?
They feature image sensors that sense light which is then translated to a digital image. They occasionally include an LCD screen or a responsive touchscreen.
How to protect your camera?
Protect your investment with a storage case and by being careful during use.
Are medium format cameras good for beginners?
Medium format cameras are for professionals, as they offer features above even mirrorless cameras, including an advanced APS-C sensor, zoom lenses, full dynamic range, maximum aperture, and more.
STAT: “A DSLR camera typically has a much bigger sensor than a point and shoot camera – a point and shoot typically has a sensor area that is only about 3-5% of a full-frame DSLR sensor.” (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Point-and-shoot_camera
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_single-lens_reflex_camera
- https://www.wikihow.com/Select-the-Right-Digital-Camerar
- https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Digital-Camera-As-a-Web-Cam
- https://www.wikihow.com/Load-Pictures-from-a-Canon-Camera-to-a-PC-Using-Camera
