Buying Guide: Digital Cameras

Choosing a Digital Camera

Investing in a digital camera is an exciting decision. Here are the best ways to determine which digital camera is right for your needs and interests.

The Basics

There are a few basic terms that you should know and understand when you start shopping for a camera. Take some time to learn more about these factors to find the best camera possible.

• Focus: How a camera’s lens bends beams of light, or how sharply a camera will display what you are shooting.
• Sensors: The size of a camera’s sensor will determine how much light the camera uses to create an image. A bigger sensor can take in more information to produce a higher quality image.
• Aperture: The aperture size regulates the amount of light that reaches the camera. A larger aperture means a shallow depth of field with one subject in focus. A smaller aperture captures more detail in focus at once.

Point-and-Shoot Cameras for Simplicity and Functionality

Point-and-shoot cameras are typically compact and are designed for taking pictures on the go. A point-and-shoot camera is an excellent choice for a casual photographer or beginner. These cameras will typically feature manual focus and manual aperture, giving the photographer a large degree of control over how a picture will look.

Specialty Point-and-Shoot Features

These features are optional additions that come standard with some point-and-shoot digital cameras.

• High zoom cameras: These cameras can allow the photographer to zoom in ten times or more.
• Ultra-slim cameras: Typically an inch thick or less, these cameras are easy to slip into a handbag or pocket. Some ultra-slim point-and-shoot cameras will offer pre-set shooting modes for taking clear pictures quickly without manual input.
• Waterproof cameras: These cameras are designed for outdoor usage. A waterproof point-and-shoot camera is protected from the damage that may result from water and snow exposure.
• Weatherproof cameras: Hardy and well-protected, weatherproof point-and-shoot cameras are shielded against liquids, sand, dust, freezing, and electric shock.

Digital SLR Cameras for Greater Control

Digital SLR cameras offer a variety of features that an intermediate or expert photographer can manipulate to create perfect pictures. These cameras tend to be the largest digital camera varieties, and aren’t the best option if you’re looking for an on-the-go camera option. However, what the digital SLR camera does offer is the greatest amount of manual control to the photographer.

Compact System Cameras for Portability and Personalization

Compact system cameras offer the customization options of digital SLR cameras while remaining compact and easy to transport. These cameras enable the photographer to exchange one custom lens for another in order to get the clearest picture possible.

Finding A Camera To Suit Your Needs

Considering just a few factors can help you get the best camera possible, regardless of how you plan to use it and which features you value most.

Photo Quality

If you want to take clear and detailed pictures, look for cameras with a larger image sensor, such as the standard or full frame 35 mm sensor. If you want to take action shots, look for a camera with a fast shutter speed or an “action mode” setting. You may also want to consider a digital camera with a “burst mode” setting that allows the photographer to take a rapid series of photographs simply by holding down the shutter button.

Stabilization

If you plan to take pictures on the go, and particularly in unstable environments – for instance, while on a boat – look for image stabilization features. This option will enable the camera to produce a steady picture even if you are in motion.

Video Recording

If you need a camera that can double as a camcorder, you’re in luck – most digital cameras will allow you to shoot video sequences without purchasing additional equipment. However, if the quality of your recordings is important for you, make an effort to find a camera that will enable you to film in high quality 1080p.

Connectivity

If you want to easily upload your photos and videos to social media, search for a digital camera with built in Wi-Fi connectivity. You can also choose a digital camera that offers a wireless adaptor that can be easily inserted into an external USB port on your computer, making it easy to upload your photos and get them online.

There’s no such thing as a camera that is universally right for everyone. However, there is a right camera for every person, depending on the way that they plan to use it, their prior experience with photography, and where they plan to snap their pictures. Consider your options carefully and you can make a fantastic buying decision that will lead to beautiful photographs.