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Stay on Target When Buying a Digital Camera
by Gareth Lenzy
http://www.yocamera.com
Before shopping for a digital camera, be sure you know
enough about the key features so you buy only what you need
Although friends, family members and reviews are good
sources of information to consider before shopping, here
are the basics to start with.
The term megapixel is used often with digital cameras,
because of the direct relationship with the quality of the
photo. A digital image is made up of dots called pixels,
with one million pixels equalling a megapixel. Most
consumer models range between two and five megapixels.
The more megapixels the sharper the image, generally, but
the size of enlargement is the important issue. You will be
okay with three megapixels for enlargements up to an 8x10,
but for larger photos you'll want more. If you plan to go
big, the extra expense for a five megapixel is worth it.
But save your money if you will use the photos for emailing
friends or to make small enlargements.
The lens, as with any camera, is a prime consideration.
Cheaper digital models normally feature fixed lenses, which
limits your scope considerably. Zoom lenses, with their
greater flexibility to frame and bring images close, are
worth the extra expense unless your use will be very basic.
A 3x zoom will give you reasonable range for typical shots,
but wildlife shots would benefit from a 10x. Be sure that
you're getting an optical rather than a digital zoom, which
merely enlarges the pixels and gives poorer image quality.
Professional cameras have interchangeable lenses. These
are expensive, but produce great effects, including wide
angle and telephoto capabilities.
Consider how you will use your camera. Some models have
the capability to take both video and still pictures. A
combination model is more expensive, but you won't have to
purchase a separate video camera.
Size is a key factor. Will you want to carry around the
camera if it is large? Or will you make better use of a
compact model that fits easily into a pocket? While image
quality is typically better in the larger models, the
smaller cameras do very well and likely get more use.
To store images, practically all digital models use a
memory stick or card. And most come with a small amount of
memory that holds few images. So you will need to make an
additional purchase of memory that holds 50-100 images. So
be sure you can buy extra memory for your model at a
reasonable price.
Intensive battery use is common for digital cameras,
particulary when the LED screen is on. Some of the big name
brands use a proprietary battery that's costly to replace.
Best is a battery that's easily available and a snap to
recharge.
The camera will come with software to download images onto
your computer. This makes it easy to store photos on your
computer, edit them and email them to friends.
Additional software like Photoshop would be needed for
serious manipulation or for more professional projects.
Check on the software compatibility with your computer
before buying.
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