Digital cameras have advanced enormously in the last few years with many clever features incorporated into them; the number of functions they now have sometimes confuses potential buyers.
So what are the things to look for if you want to buy a digital camera? Just to help with the confusion that you may be feeling, some information on what to look out for is discussed below.
Point number one is, apart from taking photos, just what do you want your camera to be able to do.
If you only want to take casual pictures of family and friends you will not need an all-singing-all-dancing model that will cost a small fortune.
The financial outlay is always an important aspect even if you only want a basic model.
When you print photos at home, having a powerful PC makes the work so much easier and faster and this is something to ponder over.
Some computer outlets can supply complete computer systems that include a digital camera, printer, software and other accessories, so you can be 'up and running' very quickly.
If you don't already have some proprietary image editing software then do not worry because it will usually be included when you buy a digital camera but a photo printer will have to be factored into the equation if you don't already have one.
Special photo printers that do not require a computer are now available and the price of these is dropping slowly.
If you are looking forward to really high quality images then you will have to ensure the cameras settings are at the highest mega-pixel level possible.
When fitted to a digital camera, its internal memory is usually only good for the storage of a couple of high resolution shots.
There are a number of different types of card with storage capacities up to 32 gigabytes (at the time of writing; some require a card reader for a high speed connection to your PC.
How it feels in your hands is also important and will determine how often you use it.
With some of the newer manufacturers, functions completely replace any attempt at making it easy to operate.
Before you buy a digital camera, check to see if it is supplied with batteries that are rechargeable; not only are these extremely cost effective, less batteries means less are disposed of which helps the environment.
The LCD screen which almost every digital camera comes equipped with can be a drain on the batteries if it is large; this screen allows for greater shooting flexibility in addition to making it easier to view them afterwards.
Of course many are doing away with the viewfinder altogether as it saves space but it means it is relying on the LCD screen which is a drain on the batteries.
Try to buy a model with an optical zoom which usually start with 3x power; this will be the most useful function you have.
Digital zoom only cameras should really be avoided as pictures using a digital only zoom are usually less clear.
Remote controls and diopter adjustment are still quite rare but handy if you have them fitted although I would prefer to have a tripod socket if there were a choice.
Perhaps now you will be able to buy a digital camera with a little more self-assurance than before.
So what are the things to look for if you want to buy a digital camera? Just to help with the confusion that you may be feeling, some information on what to look out for is discussed below.
Point number one is, apart from taking photos, just what do you want your camera to be able to do.
If you only want to take casual pictures of family and friends you will not need an all-singing-all-dancing model that will cost a small fortune.
The financial outlay is always an important aspect even if you only want a basic model.
When you print photos at home, having a powerful PC makes the work so much easier and faster and this is something to ponder over.
Some computer outlets can supply complete computer systems that include a digital camera, printer, software and other accessories, so you can be 'up and running' very quickly.
If you don't already have some proprietary image editing software then do not worry because it will usually be included when you buy a digital camera but a photo printer will have to be factored into the equation if you don't already have one.
Special photo printers that do not require a computer are now available and the price of these is dropping slowly.
If you are looking forward to really high quality images then you will have to ensure the cameras settings are at the highest mega-pixel level possible.
When fitted to a digital camera, its internal memory is usually only good for the storage of a couple of high resolution shots.
There are a number of different types of card with storage capacities up to 32 gigabytes (at the time of writing; some require a card reader for a high speed connection to your PC.
How it feels in your hands is also important and will determine how often you use it.
With some of the newer manufacturers, functions completely replace any attempt at making it easy to operate.
Before you buy a digital camera, check to see if it is supplied with batteries that are rechargeable; not only are these extremely cost effective, less batteries means less are disposed of which helps the environment.
The LCD screen which almost every digital camera comes equipped with can be a drain on the batteries if it is large; this screen allows for greater shooting flexibility in addition to making it easier to view them afterwards.
Of course many are doing away with the viewfinder altogether as it saves space but it means it is relying on the LCD screen which is a drain on the batteries.
Try to buy a model with an optical zoom which usually start with 3x power; this will be the most useful function you have.
Digital zoom only cameras should really be avoided as pictures using a digital only zoom are usually less clear.
Remote controls and diopter adjustment are still quite rare but handy if you have them fitted although I would prefer to have a tripod socket if there were a choice.
Perhaps now you will be able to buy a digital camera with a little more self-assurance than before.
SHARE
