When you first get involved in photography, you’ll almost certainly hear about the SLR camera and its DSLR counterpart. Whether you’re looking at a new piece of equipment to buy or you’re simply curious, it’s worth learning about how the two models are different.
Today, you’ll learn about the key differences between DSLR and SLR cameras. We’ll also identify which is the best choice for your needs.
What Is an SLR Camera?
SLR stands for “single lens reflex”, and these cameras use film to store images. But compared to the first film cameras (and even many DSLR models), SLRs are normally quite compact. Design-wise, they bear a lot of resemblance to mirrorless cameras (and on that note, you should also check outthe difference between DSLR and mirrorless cameras).
Many SLR cameras require you to focus manually on the subject in your images. However, you can find some that offer autofocus features. With a lot of SLR cameras, you can—like DSLR devices—change the lens. If you plan to use a different lens with your SLR device, here are thethings to look out for when picking a lens for your camera.
What Is a DSLR Camera?
With DSLR cameras, you process your images in post-production via a computer instead of at a store or in a studio. While this isn’t the case for all of them, it’s also common for DSLRs to have a bulkier body than SLR devices.
DSLR cameras are now a mainstay in the photography space, and many beginner photographers look to them as a starting point. But even though many DSLRs are considered entry-level cameras, you can stillcapture great shots with a budget DSLR.
SLR vs. DSLR: What Are the Key Differences?
Now that you know the basics of what DSLR and SLR cameras are, let’s look at the key differences between the devices.
How Images Are Stored
The biggest difference between DSLR and SLR cameras is how the photos you take are stored. SLR cameras use film strips, whereas you’ll need a memory card for a DSLR device.
When using film roll for an SLR camera, you’ll need to buy film based on the ISO you plan to use (more about that later). On top of that, you also have less room for maneuver for editing colors and such in the post-production phase.
Storage Capacities
Generally speaking, you may take many more photos on a DSLR camera in one photoshoot. Memory card storage ranges quite significantly, but you can get some that let you keep over 200GB (which translates to thousands of images).
On the other hand, you cannot delete analog photos from SLRs once you’ve taken them. Many film rolls range from 35-200 images—and unlike digital camera SD cards, you’ll need to purchase new film once you’ve used everything up.
To help you take better photos and use your film roll more sparingly, consider reading ourcomplete guide to film photography.
ISO Requirements
Beginner SLR users can often get sidetracked by the different ISO requirements compared to a DSLR. When you take photos with a DSLR, you can adjust the ISO however you feel is necessary—regardless of what the settings were for other images taken on your SD card. So, you could capture one picture at ISO 100 and the next at 400.
On an SLR camera, you don’t have the same luxury. When you buy film roll, you’ll notice that it has a specified ISO. You will have to adjust your camera settings to get the best possible results. With this in mind, you might find it harder to use an SLR camera in low-light settings.
Shutter Speed Capabilities
Shutter speed, like ISO, is a core component ofthe exposure triangle in photography. And when looking at SLR vs. DSLR comparisons, it’s essential that you know what your options are—as different situations require varying settings.
Many DSLR cameras will let you take photos up to 1/4000th of a second, which is helpful if you have too much light in your picture and want to avoid overexposure. For example, you might need this setting on a sunny day when you use a wider aperture in your pictures. Depending on the device you have, you can get longer shutter speeds of one second and below—which is ideal forlong-exposure photography.
When you buy a DSLR camera, you’ll typically get 1/1000 as the slowest shutter speed. But while this isn’t as extensive as the SLR, it should be good enough in many situations. Some SLRs will let you shoot at 1/2000. The Minolta 9xi offers up to 1/12000, but this is by no means the norm for SLR cameras.
Viewing Your Photos After Taking Them
Whether you’re new to photography or a seasoned professional, looking at your images after you’ve taken them is critical. However, SLRs and DSLRs differ dramatically in this respect.
With a DSLR camera, you can play back your images and also get a preview of them after capturing your shot. Furthermore, you have the option to delete pictures from your SD card without needing to use a computer.
When you use an SLR, you cannot look at your photos again until you’ve processed the film roll.
Recording Video
Many photographers later get involved in video as well, and there are severalphotography skills that transfer to filmmaking. So, you should think about the video recording capabilities of any device you get.
SLR cameras only let you take photos. However, DSLR devices usually include an option for video recording as well. The quality you get depends on the model you choose, but you should be able to shoot in at least 1080p. Some DSLR cameras offer 4K resolution.
SLR vs. DSLR Camera: Which One Should I Buy?
If you want to try analog photography, the SLR is a clear winner. You can also develop a strong base of knowledge because you’ll need to focus more on lighting.
But for many beginner photographers, a DSLR is often a better choice. Taking as many pictures as possible is essential if you’re new to the craft, and the storage space (plus the option to delete your images) is much better on a DSLR. On top of that, film roll can get quite expensive over time—meaning that it’s not necessarily a great long-term budget option.
DSLR cameras are also better if you want more control over the post-production phase, as you may use your files with editing programs like Lightroom, Capture One, and Photoshop. Having said that, one could argue that you’ll get more unique results with an SLR.
Understanding the Differences Between DSLR and SLR Cameras
While SLR cameras aren’t as popular as they once were, understanding the difference between DSLR and SLR cameras is still a good idea. Both are great for capturing interesting photos, but the learning curve is often steeper when you get an SLR. Nonetheless, it’s still fun to try photography in the same way that many people pre-21st century would have.
SLR and DSLR cameras vary in terms of ISO adjustments, how you store your images, and much more. You can always refer to this guide again later if you need a refresher, but you should hopefully now be able to make a better buying decision.
