Can a novice user use Digital SLR like a point and shoot camera?

Question

I'm considering buying a Digital SLR. But my family only can point and shoot. Does a Digital SLR have an "auto" mode that would allow my family to take good pictures without having to manually adjust everything?

Thank you for your time!

Answer 1

Yes, all of them have an auto mode, several auto modes actually. Even ten thousand dollar professional cameras have auto modes. They know that families are going to buy there cameras, and use them casually, and don't have time to manually compose a shot. So yes, you can use a digital SLR like a point and shoot camera.

However, DSLR's are more expensive, and are more hefty and heavier. You don't have to manually adjust anything. Most professional photographers use an auto mode, they don't use the ' m ' mode ( most of the times they go out and shoot )

Answer 2

dSLR cameras have an auto mode. The funny part is explaining that they need to look through the viewfinder to compose the image and twist the ring on the lens to zoom.

Answer 3

Absolutely. Set it to green mode or auto and you can give it to any person and tell them to press this button to take a picture.

Answer 4

Yes most all of them have a at least 1 program mode. And on most entry level DSLR they have other programed modes than P ( portrait, night, macro, sports etc) Nikon has the D40 and D60 that have these modes I am sure Cannon, Sony and others do also

The advantages of a DSLR you get a sensor many many times the size of that in a point and shoot so you get  the ability to get clearer better pictures. It has better image processors, better metering and you have many more options that can let you grow and do more as you learn more about photography.

I use manual mode or aperature prioity mode most. For me its more natural to use manual and set it based on the meter readout than to try to set the exposure compensation for areas with strong shadow or highlights. After that next would be shutter priority then flexible program ( P) but even with that I tweak the aperature or shutterspeed with the dials Even on my D40 which has both a P and an A( auto) mode I never use the full auto

Answer 5

Yes.  

Go buy one and enjoy!!!