Buying a new digital camera is not work for the faint of heart. The standard display case at an electronics store or large-scale retailer is filled with more choices that you can process in a sitting. Rather than making an impulsive decision, take some time and choose your new digital camera carefully by researching its quality and determining exactly what you need before setting out to buy.
Research
Before you leave for the store, take a few minutes online to be sure you understand what sets one camera apart from another. What is the meaning of optical zoom and what are mega pixels? Take a glance at reviews and ratings to be sure you know the best brands to buy and which to avoid.
Make a List
Make a list of things you need your camera to do. Are you planning to shoot nature photography or just a few snapshots of the pets and kids? Will you be emailing your pictures and uploading them to a photo sharing website or will you be printing from home? Do you plan on modifying your photos for artistic reasons or preparing large prints? What features do you need from your camera to accomplish these goals?
Set a Budget
Digital cameras range in price from less than $100 to well over $1,000. Without understanding the differences between the camera features it’s easy to get pulled into more camera than you need or try to save money but wind up without features you want. Set a reasonable budget between $150 and $400 dollars and stay there.
Megapixels Matter
One of your primary considerations in buying a digital camera is the number of megapixels the camera has. 2 megapixel cameras are fine for printing photos up to 5 x 7 inches. 8 x 10 pictures require at least 3 megapixels, and professional level photographers should opt for 4 or 5 megapixel cameras. Expect the cost of the camera to rise along with the number of megapixels.
Optical v. Digital Zoom
Optical zoom allows you to zoom in on your subject without losing quality. Digital zoom will let you take pictures from a distance, but your quality will suffer the more you zoom in on a subject. Optical zoom is definitely worth considering for all kinds of pictures – even just the casual ones. You don’t want your baby’s first steps to come out fuzzy.
Compatibility
You’ll want to be sure that the digital camera you select is compatible with your computer. Downloading pictures from the camera to the computer should be simple and take minutes, not hours. Consider a printing dock if you plan on making your own prints or a special photo printer that is compatible with your computer.
Finally, be sure your new camera is compatible with your lifestyle. A slim camera that will fit in a pocket might suit a busy mom or teenager better than a large camera with a heavy lens that is more ideal for nature and professional photographers. Try the cameras in the store to be sure you’ve found one that suits your needs and lifestyle.
