Digital SLR cameras: the choice for advanced photographers.(up front: News / Trends / Advice)(single-lens reflex cameras)

Tests of seven digital single-lens reflex cameras confirm why they're the best option for professionals and serious hobbyists: They provide top-notch performance in even the most challenging picture-taking conditions.

SLRs differ from point-and-shoot digital cameras in two ways: They accept interchangeable lenses, from wide-angle to extreme telephoto. And they have mirrors, prisms, or both that let you frame photos by looking through the lens.

Their large photo sensor handles lighting conditions from deep shadows to very bright highlights, and there's almost no delay from one shot to the next.

Most digital SLRs have image sensors of 6 megapixels and …