How to Find the Best Digital Camera

If you're ready to make that leap into the digital world of photography, it can be a little overwhelming trying to translate all of the technological jargon into laymen's terms. Pixels, mega pixels, resolution, LCD, memory cards--what do you really need? Listed below are a few easy steps to help guide you through your digital camera expedition.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Check your budget to see what price range you want to stay within. Digital cameras come in all shapes, sizes, colors and prices. From cameras that perform the most basic functions, to cameras that can shoot videos. Prices can range from almost pocket change to thousands of dollars.

2. Determine what you want to use the camera for. Are you simply going to take pictures and then download the pictures at a drugstore for printing or print them at home on your printer? Are you planning on emailing pictures to friends and family or simply storing them on your computer or a disk to view later?

3. Compare sizes to see which you will be most comfortable with. If you plan to take the camera with you a lot, a smaller one would be a wise choice. You can easily carry it in your purse, in your pocket or around your wrist. If you plan to dig it out of the closet only for special occasions, a larger one will do the trick.

4. Consider which resolution is going to suit your photography needs best. Simple electronic transfer or storage of photos (emailing, slide shows etc…) does not require a high pixel level. Printing photos, on the other hand, requires at least two mega pixels (two million pixels) for the quality to be satisfactory. Keep in mind if printing pictures, that the better the resolution of the camera, the sharper your images come out, even if printing larger images. Resolution also determines how much you can "crop" your pictures.

5. Look at the size of the LCD, where you preview your photos while still in the camera or memory card. Most models have displays of two inches or less. You will want to be able to discard any unwanted pictures before printing or displaying; so a clear picture LCD is important for that "instant gratification" aspect of the digital camera.

6. Review the specifics on the camera with regard to computer requirements. If you plan to upload images to your computer, you will likely need a USB connection.

7. Decide what options you need and want in your digital camera. It is almost guaranteed that whatever options you choose today, will be replaced with bigger and better ones tomorrow, so don't let that frustrate you. Zoom lenses are a nice touch and add versatility to your camera by allowing you to shrink or enlarge images instantly. Many cameras also have different modes for specific types of picture taking, such as "Outdoor Mode" or "Landscape Mode." Video is another option and can help eliminate the need for a video camera, therefore saving storage space.

8. Try not to get too many unnecessary options that you know you will never use. This is a common pitfall when buying a digital camera, especially the first time. Many people think they need to have the most current, high-tech accessories, but end up not having the time to learn how to use the features that they "had to have." Simply put, if you are a serious or aspiring photographer, splurge for the high end model. If your primary use for the camera is to "point and click" then save your money and get a more economical model.

Tips & Warnings

• Try out several types of cameras before buying. Electronics stores display the cameras, batteries charged, for good reason.
• Be sure to check the warranty information on the camera. As with any type of electronics, cameras can malfunction, so be prepared just in case.
• Take into consideration that most cameras don't come with rechargeable batteries or a suitable sized memory card. Be sure to plan your budget appropriately to accommodate these items as well.

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