Because there are so many options, it's hard to make the best decision when purchasing a digital camera. Factors such as size, quality and even color all play their part. So, which type of camera is right for you?

Unfortunately, the answer is that it depends on what you're going to use it for.

If you want a camera that you can take around in your purse or jacket pocket, then a consumer grade point and shoot camera is a great option. These are compact and don't weigh very much. They generally have decent preset settings and make it possible for you to literally point and shoot.

If the size and weight of the camera isn't a problem and you're looking for a better photo in terms of size, color depth, and overall quality, then a DSLR is probably what you're looking for. DSLR cameras have a larger photo sensor than point and shoot cameras. This is important because each pixel is able to receive more light and data so the photo is rendered better. One example is that a photo is less grainy at higher ISO settings.

To put this into perspective, a 14MP consumer grade point and shoot claims to be able to make a good 16x20" print, while a 6MP DSLR shooting in RAW can produce a good print up to 30x40". Why? Because the sensor is more than 4 times larger in the DSLR.

And, of course, the DSLR is able to change lenses for a variety of different situations such as telephoto lenses for sports or wildlife shots, large aperture lenses for low light shots, or macro lenses for closeups of insects, flowers, or other small objects.

The downside is that these cameras are a lot heavier and bulkier, especially when factoring in the weight of the lenses. This can be a problem for spur of the moment shots or when hiking for miles. In the case of the wildlife photographer, special backpacks are available to pack lenses and camera equipment for protection and to help distribute the weight more evenly.