What is one key difference between traditional and digital cameras?

One key difference between traditional and digital cameras lies in the chemicals required to process film. Traditional cameras use photographic film that must be chemically processed in a lab to develop the images captured. This involves several steps using various chemicals to fix the image and make it visible. In contrast, digital cameras capture images electronically using a sensor, eliminating the need for chemical processing altogether. This allows for immediate viewing and editing of images on a digital display, which is one of the significant advantages of digital photography over traditional methods.

While expense, ability to create color photos, and durability are also important factors to consider when comparing traditional and digital cameras, the unique reliance on chemical processes in traditional photography stands out as a definitive distinction that directly impacts how photos are developed and managed.