No longer limited to the pros, budget DSLRs such as the Nikon D3100 will take great pictures, shoot 1080p video, and do it for less than $750.

If you want the controls of a DSLR to compose pictures, but aren't willing to carry the weight, these cameras are a good alternative for most common uses.

These easy–to–use cameras under $200 will give you much better pictures than smartphone cameras, as long as you remember to carry them with you.