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How to Buy a Digital Camera



 
 
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  #1  
Old January 18th 05, 04:39 PM
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Default How to Buy a Digital Camera

Hi all

Here are some tips on buying a digital camera I hope you all with find
useful. Buying your first digital camera need not be a difficult task.
The key considerations are between resolution (how many megapixels),
features, and price. The other factors will include battery life,
memory, camera zoom, as well as the LCD viewfinder. Think about these
issues and you'll definitely have a better idea of which digital camera
is right for you.

1. How many megapixels do you need?
Deciding how many megapixels you need is the first important step in
finding the right digital camera for you. The image quality of a camera
depends on its resolution. Resolution is essentially a measure of image
sharpness based on the number of pixels that make up the image. The
more pixels the camera has, the sharper the images it can produce. One
million pixels equals one megapixel.

If only want to share images via email or online photo albums, then a
camera with less than one-megapixel resolution is suitable. Digital
cameras in this range are inexpensive and very easy to use. If your
intention is to make 4x6-inch prints, then you should get a
two-megapixel digital camera. Cameras in this category are an excellent
choice for e-mail, online use, and standard 4x6-inch prints.

If you're considering enlarging some of your digital shots to 8x10
inches, then consider a three-megapixel digital camera. Cameras in this
category provide excellent-quality images.

Digital cameras in the four to five-megapixel range are capable of
producing professional-quality images. These cameras are more suitable
for serious amateur and professional photographers.

2. How much money do you want to spend?
The prices of digital cameras vary greatly, from less than $50 to more
than $4,000. Prices are based primarily on resolution and features. As
always, do expect that the latest models will be priced at a premium.
Whereas the best bargains are usually last season's models.

Say you're are looking for a simple camera for their kids. Or maybe you
just want to start experimenting with digital photography. Then my
advice is do not spend too much money. You can always pick up a
inexpensive model first, then later upgrade the camera if you so wish.

You'll find that digital SLR models are much pricier. They'll set you
back around $2,000! The vast majority of digital cameras are
point-and-shoot models which are (thankfully) much cheaper. Of course,
you get what you pay for. A $50 digital camera will not perform as well
or provide the same features available with a $300 digital camera.
Decide what features you need, then shell out the cash. This will
ensure that you will be
satisfied with your purchase.

3. Which digital camera size appeals to you?
I'd say there are three basic sizes of digital cameras - compact,
standard and professional. You need to know what size camera suits your
needs. Will you travel a lot with your camera? Then a compact model is
good. Are you an average home user?
Then maybe a standard sized model is suitable. Consider the size factor
before making a purchase.

Compact digital cameras are designed to be stylish, tiny and highly
pocketable. They're great for taking fun and adhoc shots. Watch out
though - they are generally more expensive than standard-sized cameras
with similar features.

Standard digital cameras are pretty similar to 35mm point-and-shoot
models in appearance and features. Most of them are too large to fit in
your pocket, but you might be able to find some reasonably compact
models.

Professional digital cameras will give you additional features like
interchangeable lenses, flashes, and other accessories. This category
includes Professional SLR (Single Lens Reflex) cameras. Designed for
professional and serious
amateur photographers who require a high degree of manual control.

4. Battery Life/Power
This is one of the most overlooked factors in choosing a digital
camera. Always look for a model with a long lasting battery. And
remember - the more you use the LCD viewfinder, the faster the
batteries will go. Many digital cameras are
packed with battery chargers and rechargeable batteries, but some are
not. Do bear in mind that buying rechargeable batteries and a charger
will typically add from $30 to $100 to the base cost of the camera.

5. How much memory?
Digital cameras store photos in memory. Traditional cameras use film.
What's the difference? Well, digital camera memory is reusable! The
capacity (size) of the image memory storage will determine how many
images you can store.

There are two kinds of memory: built-in memory and removable storage
memory. Most cameras use removable storage memory to record images. The
most popular forms of removable storage memory are Compact Flash cards
, Sony Memory Sticks, and SmartMedia Cards. These days, memory sizes of
128MB and 256MB are considered to be the standard for most cameras.

6. Optical Zoom & Digital Zoom
It's useful to know that many digital cameras provide both an optical
and a digital zoom. It's important to understand the difference between
the two. Photo quality is not compromised by optical zoom. But digital
zooms use internal software to magnify a small area of the picture,
which results in a noticeable loss of image quality.

7. LCD Viewfinders
When buying digital cameras, one consideration might be the
liquid-crystal display (LCD) viewfinder. It allows you to see what your
picture will look like before you take it. LCD viewfinders also permit
you to view saved images and delete the ones that you don't like.

If you've always wanted to buy a digital camera, now is the time! A
couple of years ago, an average two-megapixel digital camera cost about
$800. Today, an average two-megapixel digital camera costs less than
$300. So don't hesitate, invest in a good camera today.
Gary Hendricks
http://www.basic-digital-photography.com

  #2  
Old January 18th 05, 05:11 PM
Harvey
external usenet poster
 
Posts: n/a
Default


wrote in message
oups.com...
Hi all

Here are some tips on buying a digital camera I hope you all with find
useful. Buying your first digital camera need not be a difficult task.
The key considerations are between resolution (how many megapixels),
features, and price. The other factors will include battery life,
memory, camera zoom, as well as the LCD viewfinder. Think about these
issues and you'll definitely have a better idea of which digital camera
is right for you.

1. How many megapixels do you need?
Deciding how many megapixels you need is the first important step in
finding the right digital camera for you. The image quality of a camera
depends on its resolution. Resolution is essentially a measure of image
sharpness based on the number of pixels that make up the image. The
more pixels the camera has, the sharper the images it can produce. One
million pixels equals one megapixel.

If only want to share images via email or online photo albums, then a
camera with less than one-megapixel resolution is suitable. Digital
cameras in this range are inexpensive and very easy to use. If your
intention is to make 4x6-inch prints, then you should get a
two-megapixel digital camera. Cameras in this category are an excellent
choice for e-mail, online use, and standard 4x6-inch prints.

If you're considering enlarging some of your digital shots to 8x10
inches, then consider a three-megapixel digital camera. Cameras in this
category provide excellent-quality images.

Digital cameras in the four to five-megapixel range are capable of
producing professional-quality images. These cameras are more suitable
for serious amateur and professional photographers.

2. How much money do you want to spend?
The prices of digital cameras vary greatly, from less than $50 to more
than $4,000. Prices are based primarily on resolution and features. As
always, do expect that the latest models will be priced at a premium.
Whereas the best bargains are usually last season's models.

Say you're are looking for a simple camera for their kids. Or maybe you
just want to start experimenting with digital photography. Then my
advice is do not spend too much money. You can always pick up a
inexpensive model first, then later upgrade the camera if you so wish.

You'll find that digital SLR models are much pricier. They'll set you
back around $2,000! The vast majority of digital cameras are
point-and-shoot models which are (thankfully) much cheaper. Of course,
you get what you pay for. A $50 digital camera will not perform as well
or provide the same features available with a $300 digital camera.
Decide what features you need, then shell out the cash. This will
ensure that you will be
satisfied with your purchase.

3. Which digital camera size appeals to you?
I'd say there are three basic sizes of digital cameras - compact,
standard and professional. You need to know what size camera suits your
needs. Will you travel a lot with your camera? Then a compact model is
good. Are you an average home user?
Then maybe a standard sized model is suitable. Consider the size factor
before making a purchase.

Compact digital cameras are designed to be stylish, tiny and highly
pocketable. They're great for taking fun and adhoc shots. Watch out
though - they are generally more expensive than standard-sized cameras
with similar features.

Standard digital cameras are pretty similar to 35mm point-and-shoot
models in appearance and features. Most of them are too large to fit in
your pocket, but you might be able to find some reasonably compact
models.

Professional digital cameras will give you additional features like
interchangeable lenses, flashes, and other accessories. This category
includes Professional SLR (Single Lens Reflex) cameras. Designed for
professional and serious
amateur photographers who require a high degree of manual control.

4. Battery Life/Power
This is one of the most overlooked factors in choosing a digital
camera. Always look for a model with a long lasting battery. And
remember - the more you use the LCD viewfinder, the faster the
batteries will go. Many digital cameras are
packed with battery chargers and rechargeable batteries, but some are
not. Do bear in mind that buying rechargeable batteries and a charger
will typically add from $30 to $100 to the base cost of the camera.

5. How much memory?
Digital cameras store photos in memory. Traditional cameras use film.
What's the difference? Well, digital camera memory is reusable! The
capacity (size) of the image memory storage will determine how many
images you can store.

There are two kinds of memory: built-in memory and removable storage
memory. Most cameras use removable storage memory to record images. The
most popular forms of removable storage memory are Compact Flash cards
, Sony Memory Sticks, and SmartMedia Cards. These days, memory sizes of
128MB and 256MB are considered to be the standard for most cameras.

6. Optical Zoom & Digital Zoom
It's useful to know that many digital cameras provide both an optical
and a digital zoom. It's important to understand the difference between
the two. Photo quality is not compromised by optical zoom. But digital
zooms use internal software to magnify a small area of the picture,
which results in a noticeable loss of image quality.

7. LCD Viewfinders
When buying digital cameras, one consideration might be the
liquid-crystal display (LCD) viewfinder. It allows you to see what your
picture will look like before you take it. LCD viewfinders also permit
you to view saved images and delete the ones that you don't like.

If you've always wanted to buy a digital camera, now is the time! A
couple of years ago, an average two-megapixel digital camera cost about
$800. Today, an average two-megapixel digital camera costs less than
$300. So don't hesitate, invest in a good camera today.
Gary Hendricks
http://www.basic-digital-photography.com


Thanks much Gary. But I have an easier method from reading Circuit City and
Best Buy ads. Just calculate the megapixel-zoom index. Multiply the number
of megapixels by the amount of digital zoom and divide by the price. The
higher the better.


  #3  
Old January 18th 05, 05:11 PM
Harvey
external usenet poster
 
Posts: n/a
Default


wrote in message
oups.com...
Hi all

Here are some tips on buying a digital camera I hope you all with find
useful. Buying your first digital camera need not be a difficult task.
The key considerations are between resolution (how many megapixels),
features, and price. The other factors will include battery life,
memory, camera zoom, as well as the LCD viewfinder. Think about these
issues and you'll definitely have a better idea of which digital camera
is right for you.

1. How many megapixels do you need?
Deciding how many megapixels you need is the first important step in
finding the right digital camera for you. The image quality of a camera
depends on its resolution. Resolution is essentially a measure of image
sharpness based on the number of pixels that make up the image. The
more pixels the camera has, the sharper the images it can produce. One
million pixels equals one megapixel.

If only want to share images via email or online photo albums, then a
camera with less than one-megapixel resolution is suitable. Digital
cameras in this range are inexpensive and very easy to use. If your
intention is to make 4x6-inch prints, then you should get a
two-megapixel digital camera. Cameras in this category are an excellent
choice for e-mail, online use, and standard 4x6-inch prints.

If you're considering enlarging some of your digital shots to 8x10
inches, then consider a three-megapixel digital camera. Cameras in this
category provide excellent-quality images.

Digital cameras in the four to five-megapixel range are capable of
producing professional-quality images. These cameras are more suitable
for serious amateur and professional photographers.

2. How much money do you want to spend?
The prices of digital cameras vary greatly, from less than $50 to more
than $4,000. Prices are based primarily on resolution and features. As
always, do expect that the latest models will be priced at a premium.
Whereas the best bargains are usually last season's models.

Say you're are looking for a simple camera for their kids. Or maybe you
just want to start experimenting with digital photography. Then my
advice is do not spend too much money. You can always pick up a
inexpensive model first, then later upgrade the camera if you so wish.

You'll find that digital SLR models are much pricier. They'll set you
back around $2,000! The vast majority of digital cameras are
point-and-shoot models which are (thankfully) much cheaper. Of course,
you get what you pay for. A $50 digital camera will not perform as well
or provide the same features available with a $300 digital camera.
Decide what features you need, then shell out the cash. This will
ensure that you will be
satisfied with your purchase.

3. Which digital camera size appeals to you?
I'd say there are three basic sizes of digital cameras - compact,
standard and professional. You need to know what size camera suits your
needs. Will you travel a lot with your camera? Then a compact model is
good. Are you an average home user?
Then maybe a standard sized model is suitable. Consider the size factor
before making a purchase.

Compact digital cameras are designed to be stylish, tiny and highly
pocketable. They're great for taking fun and adhoc shots. Watch out
though - they are generally more expensive than standard-sized cameras
with similar features.

Standard digital cameras are pretty similar to 35mm point-and-shoot
models in appearance and features. Most of them are too large to fit in
your pocket, but you might be able to find some reasonably compact
models.

Professional digital cameras will give you additional features like
interchangeable lenses, flashes, and other accessories. This category
includes Professional SLR (Single Lens Reflex) cameras. Designed for
professional and serious
amateur photographers who require a high degree of manual control.

4. Battery Life/Power
This is one of the most overlooked factors in choosing a digital
camera. Always look for a model with a long lasting battery. And
remember - the more you use the LCD viewfinder, the faster the
batteries will go. Many digital cameras are
packed with battery chargers and rechargeable batteries, but some are
not. Do bear in mind that buying rechargeable batteries and a charger
will typically add from $30 to $100 to the base cost of the camera.

5. How much memory?
Digital cameras store photos in memory. Traditional cameras use film.
What's the difference? Well, digital camera memory is reusable! The
capacity (size) of the image memory storage will determine how many
images you can store.

There are two kinds of memory: built-in memory and removable storage
memory. Most cameras use removable storage memory to record images. The
most popular forms of removable storage memory are Compact Flash cards
, Sony Memory Sticks, and SmartMedia Cards. These days, memory sizes of
128MB and 256MB are considered to be the standard for most cameras.

6. Optical Zoom & Digital Zoom
It's useful to know that many digital cameras provide both an optical
and a digital zoom. It's important to understand the difference between
the two. Photo quality is not compromised by optical zoom. But digital
zooms use internal software to magnify a small area of the picture,
which results in a noticeable loss of image quality.

7. LCD Viewfinders
When buying digital cameras, one consideration might be the
liquid-crystal display (LCD) viewfinder. It allows you to see what your
picture will look like before you take it. LCD viewfinders also permit
you to view saved images and delete the ones that you don't like.

If you've always wanted to buy a digital camera, now is the time! A
couple of years ago, an average two-megapixel digital camera cost about
$800. Today, an average two-megapixel digital camera costs less than
$300. So don't hesitate, invest in a good camera today.
Gary Hendricks
http://www.basic-digital-photography.com


Thanks much Gary. But I have an easier method from reading Circuit City and
Best Buy ads. Just calculate the megapixel-zoom index. Multiply the number
of megapixels by the amount of digital zoom and divide by the price. The
higher the better.


  #4  
Old January 18th 05, 10:53 PM
Charles Schuler
external usenet poster
 
Posts: n/a
Default




As I said, I can produce tack-sharp 8x10 prints from a 2MP camera.


Yep, done the same thing many times. I am amazed at how much
misunderstanding there is about this issue. I currently have two cameras: a
2.1 MP and a 6.3 MP. The 8 x 10 prints are very close in quality (normal
viewing distance ... have no interest in using a magnifying glass).

Of course, more MPs are better if there are no serious tradeoffs (such as
noise) so one can crop more aggressively and still get a nice print.


  #5  
Old January 18th 05, 10:53 PM
Charles Schuler
external usenet poster
 
Posts: n/a
Default




As I said, I can produce tack-sharp 8x10 prints from a 2MP camera.


Yep, done the same thing many times. I am amazed at how much
misunderstanding there is about this issue. I currently have two cameras: a
2.1 MP and a 6.3 MP. The 8 x 10 prints are very close in quality (normal
viewing distance ... have no interest in using a magnifying glass).

Of course, more MPs are better if there are no serious tradeoffs (such as
noise) so one can crop more aggressively and still get a nice print.


  #6  
Old January 18th 05, 11:01 PM
John
external usenet poster
 
Posts: n/a
Default

I think delay is a serious issue.

Also - manual focus over-ride would be good for poor lighting conditions.

--


Regards

John

"Charles Schuler" wrote in message
...



As I said, I can produce tack-sharp 8x10 prints from a 2MP camera.


Yep, done the same thing many times. I am amazed at how much
misunderstanding there is about this issue. I currently have two cameras:
a 2.1 MP and a 6.3 MP. The 8 x 10 prints are very close in quality
(normal viewing distance ... have no interest in using a magnifying
glass).

Of course, more MPs are better if there are no serious tradeoffs (such as
noise) so one can crop more aggressively and still get a nice print.



  #7  
Old January 18th 05, 11:01 PM
John
external usenet poster
 
Posts: n/a
Default

I think delay is a serious issue.

Also - manual focus over-ride would be good for poor lighting conditions.

--


Regards

John

"Charles Schuler" wrote in message
...



As I said, I can produce tack-sharp 8x10 prints from a 2MP camera.


Yep, done the same thing many times. I am amazed at how much
misunderstanding there is about this issue. I currently have two cameras:
a 2.1 MP and a 6.3 MP. The 8 x 10 prints are very close in quality
(normal viewing distance ... have no interest in using a magnifying
glass).

Of course, more MPs are better if there are no serious tradeoffs (such as
noise) so one can crop more aggressively and still get a nice print.



 




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