In The Know: What Are Point-and-Shoot Cameras and Why You Should Try Them

It's the little camera that could. Point-and-shoot cameras aren't just a novelty, they're actually a good option if you're looking for a different shooting experience. Usually small, simple to operate, and fun-to-use, point-and-shoots have what it takes to become anyone's favorite camera. Let's count down some of the reasons why you should take a shot at using one in this installment of In-The-Know.

1. They are light and compact.

Let's face it, size and weight also matter when it comes to picking our daily beater camera. This is where point-and-shoot cameras shine. They were designed and made to be light and compact. Newbie photographers will really love this feature since they can easily use the camera and get on with their learning process.

“When I roam the streets people often ask me if I am a tourist. Because the camera looks so funny nobody takes me seriously and sometimes they ask me to take their picture. Kalimar LX-9 is almost like an invisibility cloak for the street photographer.” — Community Member @photochrom describing his unique snapshooter, the Kalimar LX-9.

Another thing, point-and-shoot cameras have to be light and compact because they can be shot with just one hand.

2. You can bring them virtually anywhere.

Now that it's established that point-and-shoots are (mostly) light and compact, we can go to the next reason why you should try them — they're easy to bring along! Point-and-shoot cameras make some of the best EDC (everyday carry) cameras because of their size and weight.

“You’ll grow to love its squinty viewfinder, rangefinder-focus, and “knight rider” black plastic body. It’s a true icon of compact camera history.” — Lomography staff writer @shhquiet on the famous Olympus XA

The slim lines and sleek profile of point-and-shoots make them ideal everyday beaters. They're very convenient to carry and discreet, two qualities that street photographers can appreciate very well.

3. They are a lot of fun to use.

Snapshots galore! One of the biggest pros of owning a point-and-shoot camera is the fun factor. You can just snap away and burn through a roll of film in no time. \

“It’s a point and shoot in all respects, ideal for stealing shots in street photography because it doesn’t require setup. It does everything automatically.” — @giovannidecarlo describing his rare Ricoh Xobbox camera

A lot of point-and-shoot cameras have fixed settings (there are some out there that offer variable settings, too) so you can just sort of "set it and forget it." Point-and-shoots are the candid photographer's best friend. Imagine having a camera that anyone can use — you'll be the life of the party!

4. There are a lot of good choices on the market.

Olympus Mju, Contax T2, Yashica T4, Konica Pop — these cameras are just a few in a very long list of good options. These cameras have different characteristics but in the end, they are all good point-and-shoots. The market is saturated with these nifty snapshooters that it's almost unwise to pass up on getting one.

5. They can change the way you shoot.

Having little to no controls to fiddle with in your camera can be a boon and a bane. Having these limitations can force you to change the way you look at your subjects. Your framing and choice of angles as well. Good photography lessons often come from challenges like these and point-and-shoots definitely bring a lot of them to the table.

Not all compact cameras can be classified as point-and-shoots but if we've piqued your curiosity, here's a list of some viable compact camera candidates that you should keep an eye out for! How about you? What do you think makes a point-and-shoot a great choice for a camera? Let us know in the comments section below! You could also check out our cameras in our shop!

written by cheeo on 2019-12-20 #gear #gear #cameras #point-and-shoot #compact #in-the-know