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Single lens reflex (SLR) cameras have undergone radical improvements in the past few years in terms of both operation and efficiency. Although, serious photographers were initially skeptical about the performance of digital single lens cameras (DSLRs), they have now more or less unanimously come to embrace the DSLRs for their ease of operation and advanced capabilities, which far exceed the standard SLR cameras. Although DSLR cameras use the same principle of image capturing, the mode of exposure is radically different. Unlike standard SLRs that employ mechanical shutters to allow light to expose the film, DSLRs make use of a CCD or CMOS image sensor to capture images in their true colours. While standard SLRs use an optical viewfinder to compose pictures, DSLRs use an LCD screen along with an optical viewfinder. This facilitates instant preview of the shots. Additionally, the LCD screen also serves to control the several built-in features of the camera.

The biggest advantage of DSLRs is that they do not need a film roll, which saves on the cost and time of film loading and developing. While standard SLRs let you capture up to 36 images, DSLRs can store hundreds of images depending upon the their storage capacity. Equipped with lenses that are larger in diameter than standard SLRs, DSLRs allows more light to hit the image sensor. This facilitates faster shutter speeds, better image quality, higher sensitivity, and a shallower depth of field.

Several camera manufacturers such as Nikon, Canon, Olympus and Kodak offer a range of DSLRs with advanced features to capture high quality images. Some of the popular digital SLRs include the Canon EOS 400D/Rebel XTi, the Canon EOS-5D, the Nikon D80, the Nikon D3, the Olympus EVOLT E-510, the Samsung GX-1S, the Pentax K100D, the Sony Alpha DSLR-A100, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1, and the Konica Minolta Dynax 5D/Maxxum 5D. Each brand is equipped with some kind of proprietary technology to enhance camera performance. For example, the Canon EOS Digital SLR camera features DIGIC II technology, which ensures a start-up time of 0.2 seconds, less power consumption and accurate capturing of colours.

Digital SLR cameras feature controls that give you the edge over any standard SLRs or digital cameras. Some high-end DSLRs are even equipped with sensors as large as 35mm giving extremely high quality images. With a CCD or CMOS image sensor, the DSLR has zero shutter lag, which allows faster image capturing during crucial moments and movements. Moreover, these cameras can be focused faster and deliver better results in low lighting conditions.