How to Choose Digital Cameras
- 1). Decide what size camera you want. If you plan on taking high-end photos, invest in a larger camera with all the bells and whistles, such as a manual focus and changeable lenses. If you just want something you can have on hand and is very user-friendly, consider a compact or ultra-compact camera. These can usually fit in a pocket or purse.
- 2). Determine what you are looking for in a digital camera in terms of shooting capabilities and automatic versus manual function. If you want a simple camera, you can get away with a compact or ultra compact that will pretty much stay in auto-focus, and it won't cost you a lot. If you're looking for a more sophisticated camera that allows you to play with the focus manually, retouch photos, change lenses and change shutter speeds, go for a larger camera.
- 3). Determine what features you want your camera to have. For example, you may want to have a larger LCD screen so you can view pictures easily after taking them. If you intend on using the camera for video as well, consider a camera that will give you at least a 30-frame-per-second video. Another option to consider is a built-in image stabilizer. This comes in handy if you plan on using the camera for a variety of shots, but you don't plan on using a tripod. Deciding what features are important in your digital camera will help you narrow down the cameras in your price range.
- 4). Decide how many megapixels you want your camera to have. This is important because the number of megapixels will determine your photo quality, especially if you plan to take high-grade pictures with the intent to enlarge them. By using a camera with more megapixels, the photo will be more detailed and appear clearer when viewed in an enlargement. If you intend to take basic photos for web use, you can get by with a 2 or 2.9 megapixel camera. If you like to print your pictures into 4-by-6-inch or 3.5-by-5-inch prints, you should look into a 3 to 5 megapixel camera. If you really want to splurge and get a very nice camera that will provide you with high-resolution photos, go for one with 6 or more megapixels.
