Is the Sony Cybershot DSC H3 an SLR camera? How does one distinguish an SLR from another camera? Thanks. Bill

No, it is not a SLR or DSLR camera. SLR cameras have a mirror in them, where as point-and-shoot class cameras do not. With an SLR the mirror allows you to look through the lens, so that you are actually seeing through the lens when looking in the viewfinder. With a point and shoot, even a superzoom like the H3, the viewfinder is actually a small LCD, showing you a digital *image* of what the sensor sees.

Another primary feature is that SLR and DSLRs have removable lenses. They also are typically faster, and have better lower light performance. On the downside they are typically more expensive, larger and heavier.

All DSLRs will be noted as such. In Sony's case, their DSLR line is named "Alpha".