They’re on our computers and phones, though typically lower quality than an actual device devoted to capturing photographs rather than communication, and they give us that instant gratification when we look at the screen and can know right away whether it was a “good one” or not. Digital cameras are everywhere. When considering the plethora of digital cameras available, keep in mind a few things:
1. What do you want or need it for? Or rather, what are your intentions? (haha) The difference between using the camera to capture fun vacation memories and using it to further a serious photography hobby can be hundreds of dollars. A simple point-and-shoot, pocket-sized model with automatic options is probably appropriate for most of us as we snap away seeking the next MySpace or Facebook default pic. But for the serious photog who is studying the art of photography, an SLR with more creative control through the ability to manipulate settings like aperture, shutter speed and such is definitely the way to go.
2. What’s your budget? While they’re becoming more affordable and available, you still want the most quality for your dollar and so decide on your limit and stick to it.
3. How important is size? SLRs are usually heavier and bulkier with more accessories, while the typical point-and-shoot can easily fit in a back pocket or small purse. And, there’s a lot more equipment to carry with the SLRs versus the snapshooter so keep that in mind too.
4. Megapixels – the more the merrier? It seems like it, but unless you’re printing huge close-ups, something in the 5-6 megapixel range is adequate for printing the regular 8×10 photo size. In that range, the naked eye probably won’t be able to tell a 1-2 megapixel difference. But again, if you’re doing macro photography or blowing up your prints beyond 8×10’s, you might want to get those extra megapixels to ensure high quality pieces.
This Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-G1 Digital Camera has 6.0 megapixels and is only 299.88.
5. Optical zoom vs. digital zoom. You want optical. Commonly found at about 3x, this is actually the lens enlarging the object in your view (higher quality image) while the digital zoom acts like a cropping tool and will pixelate (lower quality image).
6. Don’t forget the extras. Most come with a small memory card, if it’s included at all, but you’ll probably want something that can hold a few more than the standard card. About 500MB is a decent size; it should hold a couple hundred images at the camera’s highest res. And you might want an extra battery to have on hand in case your rechargeable unit gives out at the most inopportune time. Camera bags, extra lenses (for the SLR), camera filters, tripods… they all add up.
7. Go out and play. Go to a camera store or the camera department and play with the different choices you have. See which one you feel comfortable with, which one has a good grip, even which color you like. The best way to learn what you want and don’t want is to try them out. If you have the option, buying a cheaper model and experimenting on your own for a while can provide immediate hands-on insight into features you might want or find out you no longer need.
Smarter.com has a wide selection to choose from. Browse through them here.
When you’ve filled up your memory card with pictures, you can buy cool digital photo frames to show them off to friends and family.
7” Widescreen PhotoShare 7D Digital Photo Frame: $22.50
deal I’ve found for you.
