Point-and-shoot cameras are easy-to-use cameras that take photos by focusing on an object and tripping the shutter. These cameras do all the work for the photographer and are available in analog and digital technologies. Point-and-shoot cameras are equipped with metering systems that determine the light entering the camera, zoom lenses, variable aperture and shutter speed and also automatic focus. The Canon PowerShot series and Nikon Coolpix series are examples of point-and-shoot digital cameras.
SLR cameras have a single lens used to view and create a photo. These cameras have a larger body than point-and-shoot cameras and feature interchangeable lenses. Originally, SLR cameras were manual, and the photographer controlled features such as focus. However, the cameras can act in automatic mode like a point-and-shoot camera. An SLR camera allows the user to control its different functions. This makes the camera easy to use because you can adjust the functions to suit your needs.
DSLRs are an improvement of SLR cameras. These cameras have automated functions that allow you to control shutter speed, film speed, add-on flashes and magnification. Because of digitization of the camera, you can control a combination of its functions. DSLR lenses are delicate because of their high sensitivity to light. When handling them, even a slight scratch can ruin the lens completely. Examples of DSLRs are Canon Rebel, Nikon D90 and Pentax K10D.
Single-use cameras are among the easiest cameras to use because they feature a roll of color film fixed to a recyclable carbon paper. These cameras have a single shutter speed and a fixed focus. Physical movement is required to adjust the object distance. Single-use cameras have built-in flashes and often are water-resistant and recyclable.