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”). Today’s newest digital SLR models can let any photographer look over the photographs they have taken and decide which ones they want to keep, and which ones they do not. 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.

Professional digital cameras can also take pictures in two of the best image formats around: Tagged Image Film Format (TIFF) and RAW, these are great because they are uncompressed and so they are extremely high quality. “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. Every camera manufacturer has there own RAW extension system, 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. With uncompressed images and high quality photo edit software, you can edit any part of a photograph that you do not want or need, and it will not affect the photo itself. This is possible with software programs that use uncompressed image files.

Professional digital cameras also allow you to switch out your lens just like the old film SLR’s. This is great, as professional photographers can have an array of lenses for their digital cameras much like they would with any other camera. 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 can give you a wide array of shooting options and can let you take truly professional photographs with easy.

These are powerful tools because you can combine the special lenses, the uncompressed photos, and the photo editing software you can use will make it possible for you to be a sort of unstoppable force. While these features are certainly not necessary for just anyone taking photographs, they are valuable tools for any enthusiast or professional. While 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 photo shoot. A traveling photographer doesn’t have to wait to return home and have his or her film processed in a dark room before viewing the results. Professional digital cameras bring a whole host of new features to the table that used to be unimaginable, and it is a load of stress off of any professional photographer’s shoulders.

Looking to move from your old Nikon or other brand of professional camera and into the digital age? These days, digital cameras made for professionals are equal to film cameras in terms of functionality and easy of use.

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