how to buy a digital camera identify purpose create a budget prioritize features compare brands

How to Buy a Digital Camera

Identify Purpose

Create a Budget

Prioritize Features

Compare Brands

Identify Purpose

Replacing “still” camera – High Quality Printing

Resolution becomes important.

Posting Images for the Web/E.MailNeed minimal Resolution

Need Motion /SoundMaybe consider DV camera

Create a Budget The camera is just part of the package What about a camera bag? Will you need additional storage media? AC Charger and batteries (how many?,

specialized type, ) Interface to computer (card reader) Some offer additional lenses. Other Photo Editing Software OH NO - Not a Printer too!

Prioritize Features Resolution Lens Storage Media Type Menus- Functionality / Manual Settings Flash issues Battery type/life Viewfinder Quality of Instructions / Support Term

Features- Resolution What is this megapixel thing?

W x H (examples-1024 x 768 = .8meg2048 x 1536 = 3.1meg)1.3Meg recommended for Printing 5”x7”

Compression and Storage Card SizeMost popular today is Compact Flash, some use

Floppy discs, Smart Cards, avoid Proprietary Typical Computer today is 1024 x 768

unless you are making large prints that is adequate.

Compare Brands Resources:

http://www.pcphotoreview.com/ http://www.digicamera.com/ http://www.dcresource.com/