How to Figure out Digital Cameras

Digital cameras appeal to the masses. They don't need film. There's no cost for developing and your images appear instantaneously. For a first-time buyer, digital cameras can be confusing. If you do your homework, however, you can find the right one for you in a "flash."

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Digital camera
• Battery
• USB port
• Cable
• Memory card
• Memory card reader
• Internet access
• Photo imaging software

1. Decide on a price range. This allows you to easily identify which digital cameras are affordable and which ones can be scratched off your list. Do not be lured by options. Instead, focus on less expensive, compact cameras that are lightweight and easy to hold. Once you have mastered the basics you can upgrade.
2. Know your megapixels. A megapixel represents one million pixels (short for Picture Element) and is a single point in a digital image. The more pixels an image has, the more resolution will be displayed in a photograph. But more is not always better. Quality counts too. If you will be printing 4 by 6 photos, two megapixels are usually sufficient. More megapixels will be needed for printing larger photos.
3. Ignore digital zoom. Because of its guesswork factor, digital zoom attempts to increase the perceived zoom distance. This can create "fuzzy" images that lose clarity when enlarged into an 8 by 10 or larger size photograph. Optical zoom, however, provides true zoom-in or zoom-out. It allows for a greater variety of picture taking. Look for a camera with an optical zoom of at least 3x. They cost a little more but the enhanced quality is worth it.
4. Consider shutter speed, especially if your digital camera is used to take sports or action photographs, or if you plan to take pictures at night.
5. Purchase memory cards to increase your digital camera's storage space. Depending on how much extra space you need, you may want to consider a miniature hard drive. These devices come with huge storage capacities, and are less expensive than memory cards.
6. Know your battery. Most digital cameras use AA or AAA batteries. If you are an avid photographer who shoots a lot of pictures, you might want to opt for a rechargeable battery.
7. Ask about warranties, hidden charges, accessories and extras.
8. Shop around. Check your newspaper for sales inserts, the Internet and electronics stores for the best deals. Remember, cheaper is not always the best choice. Research the seller, too.

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Tips & Warnings

• Before purchasing a digital camera familiarize yourself with the terminology used.
• Ask people which digital camera they use and that model's pros and cons.
• Receive instruction on all of the camera's features. This can be done through online or in-store customer service.
• Accessories are available, such as a camera bag, cleaning kits and tripods.