Simply put, professionals use traditional DSLR cameras. They’re bigger, typically have better image sensors and lenses, and you can swap out the latter for various purposes. The most obvious is telephoto zoom capabilities for sports and other zoom-centric photography.
DSLRs often require more adjustments, and users consider it a more technical medium. Moreover, proponents argue you get better shots with a DSLR, at least if you know what you’re doing.
In contrast, the best compact camera models currently available are more portable and much smaller. They lean towards fixed lenses and modest zoom capabilities. Autofocus and many other settings do the creative work for you.
While they look and feel like traditional cameras, they have a lot in common with how smartphone cameras operate.
If you want an affordable camera that’s ready to point and shoot, a compact is for you.