Finding the right camera for you takes time and careful research.
With the glut of camera choices on the market, deciding which one to buy involves more than simply walking to your nearest camera store and picking one off the shelf. Digital cameras are available in a variety of sizes, features and skill levels, with a dizzying array of specifications and technical details. Before even stepping foot into a camera store, take a little time to decide why you're looking for a camera in the first place. This will help narrow your choices, and make the final decision easier.
Know Your Intent
The first question to ask yourself pertains to your intended purpose for the camera. Will you use it for quick family snapshots at the park, or exploring your creative side and artistic vision? For those photographers just interested in having something on hand when Junior goes to his soccer games on the weekend, a compact camera would work well. If you're interested in the technical aspects of photography and want to make large prints, a DSLR camera is a better choice.
Know Your Aspirations
After intent, think about your aspirations, both for the images and yourself as a photographer. If your images are destined for the Internet, to be emailed and posted on social networks, then look for a camera with small image sizes, such as a compact. If the subject of photography interests you and you envision yourself learning more about the finer details, becoming a professional or selling your images as fine art, look for a DSLR.
Portability
Digital cameras can be grouped in three categories, ranging from smallest to largest --- the ultracompact, the compact and the DSLR. Ultracompact and compact models share the advantages of low weight and size, and their similarities may make them hard to tell apart. Both categories offer high quality photography in a very portable size, with the ultracompact category boasting the smallest, thinnest and lightest specifications. DSLRs, on the other hand, are large and heftier, requiring more than just a pocket in order to carry them around.
Mexapixels Aren't Everything
Contrary to popular belief, megapixel count doesn't necessarily equate to image quality. High-megapixel cameras even cause a disadvantage, as the larger the megapixel number, the larger the image file sizes. This takes up more space on memory cards and your computer hard drive. Higher megapixels work well for those planning on prints larger than 8-by-10 inches or even 16-by-20 inches. But for the majority of photographers, the highest megapixel counts are not necessary.
The Need For Speed
In the world of photography, speed counts in three areas --- powering up, shooting and writing to the memory card. Some digital cameras seem built for speed, specifically DSLRs and cameras designed for use in sports photography. Some cameras work on their own timetable, meaning if you see a great shot and have to wait a few seconds for your camera to finally turn on, you've just missed the shot. It may not seem like an important detail, but when you avoid using your camera because of its lag time, you've wasted your money.
Remember the Accessories
Digital cameras rarely come with everything you need right in the box. Remember that you'll need some extras in order to use, store and carry the camera properly. Extra batteries, a bag and memory cards seem the obvious additional necessities, but others include an external flash, a tripod and for DSLRs, additional lenses.
Get Hands-On
While reading reviews and studying technical specifications online help narrow your search, nothing beats a hands-on examination and handling of your final candidates. Don't discount ergonomics as a buying decision --- the camera must feel comfortable and accessible in your hands. Go through the menu to get a feel for its ease of use, and snap a few experimental shots to gauge its speed and image quality. Ask questions of the salesperson.
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