Where digital Cameras Come from!

Type of Photography

To help make your purchase decisions a lot easier, you need to figure out what type of photography you will be doing with the camera. Is your main objective to find a digital camera that is highly portable so you can take it on your next vacation, or do you need something that will serve a specialized purpose, such as a camera for macro photography? Different cameras may be suited for different purposes. For example, with macro photography, your only option is to purchase a DSLR camera because you will also need to buy a special macro lens. Another thing to consider is if you take photos for professional use or if you merely take them for the joy of it.

Camera Types

The basic functioning of all digital cameras is the same. In its most basic state, digital cameras take in light through the lens and the image gets stored within the camera. No matter which digital camera type you choose, that fact remains the same. There are a few different categories, but as you view this list consider that some people categorize them differently. Some think of the cameras in terms of point and shoot and DSLR cameras. Others consider them in terms of amateur, semi-pro, and professional. No matter how you choose to categorize them, know that most of these categories are simply a way to describe what to look for. It is simply a way to narrow down your search.

Look at the Features

Within the different types of categories, the cameras will have different features. For example, not every DSLR camera is created equally. Some will take better photos than others. Certain lenses will only be compatible with certain cameras. Standard point and shoot cameras could have different settings and memory capabilities. They may also vary in size. When researching a camera, these are the things that may help determine your purchase.

Here is a short list of some features to consider:

o Type of battery and life of the battery
o Resolution capabilities (megapixels)
o Built in zoom and magnification (only if it is a point and shoot style)
o Viewfinder and LCD Screen
o Size and weight of the camera
o Type of focus (fixed focus or auto focus)
o Both manual and automatic mode on camera?
o Programmed settings (ex. Portrait setting and landscape setting)
o Different modes available? (ex. Macro mode)
o Does it have a timer?
o Does it take videos?

Basically, after you research a few cameras in the style of camera you desire you will begin to understand what types of features are available. Visit manufacturers’ websites and consumer websites to get a feel for what is out there. Make a list of all the features that are truly important to you. The list, above, is by no means exhaustive. There are so many features, it really is just a matter of what you prefer and what type of photography you would like to do.

Opinions Do Matter

Although ultimately you will be the one making the decision, opinions from others do have an impact. Think of it this way. There are other people out there who already own the cameras that you are thinking of buying. They know their features and quirks. They understand how they work, and whether or not a certain camera is suited for your ultimate photography goals.

The objective, then, is to find these people. You can look on consumer review sites, ask in forums and on newsgroups, or ask photographers in person what they own. You may want to find information using a variety of different methods. It is important to understand that these are just opinions and ultimately you will have the final say.

Where to Purchase

Where you will purchase the digital camera will also have an impact on your ultimate decision. There are so many choices. You can either buy them at online stores, at a store with a real location, or used through the classifieds or online auction sites. Also, stores with locations also sometimes have a mail order catalog or an online store. How can you choose?

Well, you can base your decision entirely on price. Once you know which digital camera you would like to buy, you can call places and search for it online to see how much it will cost. Other things to consider when deciding where to purchase the camera is warranty information, their reputation, knowledge of the sales staff, return policy, and whether or not they charge exorbitant shipping fees.

Camera Accessories

Depending on your goals for the camera, a purchase decision may come down to which accessories come with it. For example, some manufacturers will include an extra battery or extra memory with the purchase. However, this isn’t typically. Most sell separate kits that include a carrying case, extra memory, and extra battery. Of course, this will depend on the manufacturer. Are you willing to pay the extra money?

Photo Quality Considerations

The main thing to understand when you are looking for a camera is that the quality of the camera will determine the quality of the photos it takes. Essentially, you want a camera that will not only fit your needs but also look great when you either get prints made professionally or print them out on your photo printer. However, keep in mind that if the photo does not come out well that it could have something to do with your printer and not the camera. If this is a concern of yours, test the photo quality using different printers and printing companies.

Usability

Depending on your level as a photographer, you will also need to consider the overall usability of the camera. For someone who is a novice and just needs something that will get them decent enough pictures from their vacation, whether or not the camera is user-friendly will be a factor that determines purchase. However, to an expert or professional, this type of camera would be frustrating because they want to be able to set the camera on manual and control the aperture and other aspects without having the camera do it for them.

Final Thoughts

There is a lot that goes in to the purchase of a digital camera. There are several different styles, sizes, and types. What you choose will depend on your personality, the type of photography you will be doing, the features you need, the photo quality, and the overall usability. After careful research and consideration, you should be able to narrow down your choices enough so you are comfortable with the overall decision. In addition to deciding on the camera, you also need to figure out where you will purchase it and how much you are willing to spend.

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