These cameras offer built-in lenses that are top-shelf quality. Most are threaded or accept special adapters to accommodate traditional photographic filters or accessory lenses, the latter of which can allow you to extend your focal range in both directions. It's not quite as good as having an interchangeable-lens system, but it's darn close.

Expect pro-level resolution of around 4 or 5 megapixels from cameras in this category. That's actually more resolution than some of the professional SLRs, and enough for big enlargements of 11x14-inches and beyond. You'll be able to make stunning prints.

One of the best features of digital cameras in every category is the LCD monitor. Many of the pro-am cameras have taken the LCD to the next level by designing it to flip out from the body and rotate for a more convenient viewing angle, a feature derived from camcorders. Other models have a design that allows the lens to swivel around the camera's body axis, providing a similar benefit. These options also allow you to get some unique perspectives on your subject without acrobatics.

These cameras offer the photographic control you'd expect from a pro-level model. Expect aperture- and shutter-priority exposure modes, full-manual controls for exposure and focus, plus state-of-the-art metering and autofocus systems.

You'll have control over details like white balance and ISO equivalence. Many photographers are discovering the possibilities of using custom white-balance settings creatively to add warmth to a scene. The pro-am camera will determine the white balance for you automatically or allow you to use a preset or custom setting. You can also increase your CCD sensor's sensitivity to shoot in less-than-perfect light.

When the light really needs massaging, you'll be able to use accessory flash. Pro-am models have a hot-shoe mount, PC connection or, in some cases, both. Some models allow you to take full advantage of today's most sophisticated systems for macro photography and off-camera flash, too.

Files from these high-resolution cameras are big, so you're going to want a large-capacity storage card or two. Upwards of 256 MB of storage is more practical than it is extravagant. That's especially true if you plan to use TIFF files, which are usually an option on cameras at this level.

JPEG is the default file type because it compresses image data to save storage space. TIFF files are sometimes preferred because they aren't compressed and therefore don't sacrifice any image quality, although they take up a lot of storage space. They also take a long time for the camera to process and for most purposes are probably unnecessary, but it's nice to have the option.

A RAW file is essentially an untouched digital negative. RAW files are typically about the same size as JPEGs, but you must use your camera manufacturer's included software to open these files. Unlike TIFF and JPEG files, no color correction, white balance or sharpening is applied by the camera when shooting in RAW mode, so you're getting exactly what the CCD sensor captured. The assumption is that you'll make these corrections yourself using your image-processing software.

Indeed, the pro-am camera makes a lot of assumptions about you as a photographer. It assumes that you demand control and that you have some experience with digital imaging. They will do a fine job when set to automatic, but that's really like using a Ferrari to run errands. However, if you're looking for pro features and total control over your photography, one of these cameras may be the perfect fit.