Ultra compact digital cameras

Ultra compact digital cameras are capable of taking quality images. They are very small, lightweight, easy to use and convenient to carry. Some slip into a shirt pocket.

Most ultra-compacts have fewer features than compact cameras, such as manual controls and a viewfinder. Buttons and dials are small though usually work well. Moderate to high priced.

Compact digital cameras

Consumer-level digital cameras are compact, lightweight and great for point-and-shoot photo-taking. They have fully automatic and scene modes; some have semi-automatic and manual controls. All but the cheapest models provide very good image quality. Low to moderately priced, depending on features.

Advanced digital cameras

“Prosumer” digital cameras are geared to advanced amateurs with skill levels between a professional and consumer. They sport high quality lenses and advanced features for creative control. Some have long telephoto zooms lenses while others start at wide angle.

A few have a zoom range from wide to super telephoto. Most advanced digital cameras accept accessories and add-ons including converter lenses, filters, remote controls and external flashes. Moderate to high priced.

Digital single lens reflex cameras

DSLR cameras, used by professionals and photo enthusiasts, are top-of-the-line. They have outstanding optics, produce high resolution images and accept interchangeable lenses and sophisticated accessories.

They perform much better in low light than consumer cameras that have small sensors. DSLRs function automatically but also have a full range of manual controls. You can buy only a DSLR body, and purchase lenses separately. The price of professional-level lenses can be jaw-dropping.

DSLR models include entry level, mid-level (semi-pro) and pro. High priced to extremely expensive.

Micro Four Thirds cameras

Micro Four Thirds cameras, first unveiled by Panasonic in 2008, are digital single lens reflex-like. Unlike traditional SLRs and DSLRs, they have no reflex mirrors and optical viewfinders. Micro Four Thirds cameras have large sensors like a DSLR and take interchangeable lenses. They are smaller and thinner than most DSLRs. Moderate to high priced.

Interchangeable lens unit camera system

The interchangeable lens unit camera, introduced in 2009 by Ricoh, consists of a body and separate camera units. Each camera unit contains a different lens, its own image sensor and an image processing engine. Lens units slide directly into the camera body. Each lens unit has a different focal length and may have a different sensor than found in another unit. Expensive.