Professional Digital Cameras
Benefits of Professional Digital Cameras
The realm of digital photography has expanded, and technology has improved to the point where professional photographers can comfortably make the transition from their 35mm film cameras (or SLR – “single lens reflex”) to fully professional digital cameras (“digital SLR”). The features provided by the latest digital SLR’s allow the photographer to review his or her captures, keep the good ones and discard any undesired shots. This is just the most basic benefit over the old film cameras, and we will take a look at some other ones in this article.
Uncompressed Image Types
One of the best features of professional digital cameras is their ability to save shots in uncompressed formats like TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) and RAW. “RAW” is not actually a file type but a general term used to describe raw images that have not been processed yet and are stored as data. Each manufacturer has their own RAW extension, for example; Sony’s “.arw”, or Nikon’s “.nef”. Uncompressed image files are the key to photo-editing software used by professional photographers and publishers alike. This takes every step of photography out of the dark room and into the computer, with limitless results and possibilities. Want to remove the top of Uncle Frank’s head , that accidentally got into focus in your best photo of the bride and groom? This is possible with software programs that use uncompressed image files.
Switchable Lenses
Professional digital cameras also allow you to switch out your lens just like the old film SLR’s. This allows the digital camera photographer to carry along several different lenses for each application. Lenses come in all kinds of configurations, from zoom depth, telephoto, wide angle, macro and prime lens. Some lenses have a set aperture or exposure ratio, while others allow manual control. This provides the user with multiple shooting options, instead of being restricted to the one lens of, say, a regular digital camera.
More Control Means Better Quality
Uncompressed photo files, compatibility with image editing software and virtual dark rooms, and exchangeable lenses make professional digital cameras a powerful tool in the right hands. They may be a bit much for the average picture-taker, but to a professional photographer the digital camera is indispensable. Although true diehards still use the 35mm film SLR cameras, the DSLR crosses the fine line between portability and ease of use. The DSLR photographer can more easily share files with others on a team, for example, working on a magazine photoshoot. A travelling photographer doesn’t have to wait to return home and have his or her film processed in a dark room before viewing the results. DSLRs bring technology and convenience to these people, at the same time providing more control over their shots and more quality pictures.