A point-and-shoot camera, also known as compact camera, is a still camera designed primarily for simple operation.[1] Most use focus free lenses or autofocus for focusing, automatic systems for setting the exposure options, and have flash units built in.
Point-and-shoots are by far the best selling type of separate camera, as distinct from camera phones. They are popular for vernacular photography by people who do not consider themselves photographers but want easy-to-use cameras for snapshots of vacations, parties, reunions and other events. Point-and-shoot camera sales declined after about 2010 as smartphones overtook them in such uses.
Most superzoom compact cameras have between 30x and 60x optical zoom, although some have even further zoom, most notably the Nikon P900, which has 83x optical zoom, and weigh less than 300 grams, much less than bridge cameras and DSLRs. Most of these compact cameras use small 1/2.3" sensors, but since 2008 a few non-interchangeable compact cameras use larger sensor such as 1" and even APS-C, such as the Fujifilm X100 series, or full frame format such as the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R series.[2] They prioritize intelligent Auto, but some high end P&S cameras have PASM mode dial, Raw image format, and hot shoe. None have lens threads.[3]
