An Introduction to DSLR Camera

According to the Wikipedia, DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) Camera is a digital camera that uses an automatic mirror system and pentaprism or pentamirror to direct light from the lens through the viewfinder eyepiece.

A major difference between a DSLR and an ordinary digital camera (digicam) is the reflex design scheme, which typically exposes the sensor constantly to the light projected by the lens, allowing the camera's screen to be used as an electronic viewfinder.
In contrast, the mirror arrangement in a DSLR usually precludes the ability to view the scene on the liquid crystal display (LCD) before the photograph is taken. However, many newer DSLR models feature live preview, allowing the LCD to be used as a viewfinder in the same way as a normal digicam, although with certain limitations and with the optical viewfinder disabled.

A Digital SLR is just a computerized version of the same thing, using digital memory cards and light sensor chips instead of film. SLRs also use interchangeable lens, all with different focal lengths, allowing for close up macro photography or long distance telephoto photography.

Apart from the interchangeable lenses, SLRs are must faster at starting, focusing, taking pictures, taking multiple pictures; better at taking pictures under low lighting situations by using higher ISO speeds (no graininess); offer more professional control over light, depth of field, responsiveness. And of course they are more expensive than a usual pocket camera. The price range varies from US$500 to US$3000. The more money it costs, the better quality you can get.

But one thing for sure, owning a DSLR Camera doesn't mean that you will become a professional photographer, because there is a saying among photographers: "The camera doesn't make the photo, the photographer does." The point is that no matter how expensive your gear is, it means nothing without someone who knows how to properly use it.

Most popular brand DSLR used by professional photographers are: Canon, Sony, and Nikon. Canon, Sony, and Nikon are popular mostly because of the ranges of lenses they provide. And for your information, Canon lens is basically cheaper than the others and for that reason this brand is the most favorite DSLR brand among professional photographers.