 Digital photography is unique in how it captures and stores an image. The functions of a digital camera are based on digital imaging technology. This technology uses an electronic image sensor and microprocessor for image capture. Instead of film, digital imaging technology uses a grid of many very small sensors that translate what enters the lens into data. This data is transferred to an image file that is then recorded on the camera's own internal memory or on interchangeable PC "media cards". Once a photo is in the camera's memory, it is ready for printing, viewing, or unloading for storage on a computer hard drive.
Choosing a Digital Camera
Like film-based cameras, the more you pay equates to higher quality, better resolution, and more features when purchasing a camera. Here are the things that you should consider when purchasing a digital camera:
Resolution and Image Quality
When buying a digital camera, the resolution you select should be matched to the intended use of your photographs. If you will be putting your pictures on a Web page or plan on e-mailing many of your photos, stick to the basic camera's resolution. Even a 1 or 2-megapixel camers will provide good pictures and will keep the file size small and downloads quick. If you plan to print pictures, choose a higher resolution like 5 or 6-megapixels. The higher the pixels, the higher the resolution. The higher the resolution, the larger you can print a photo with good results.However, megapixels isn't everything in digital cameras. In fact, adding more and more megapixels may actually be bad for the picture quality, especially if the camera has a small sensor. You can learn more about megapixels and sensors in two articles that I have written for Hardware Secrets:
Everything you need to know about megapixels
Everything you need to know about digital camera sensors
When you get to the high-end camera that supports six or more mega-pixels, an average viewer will feel that the quality of even large photos will rival that of 35 mm prints. Remember that you may have to pay more for a high resolution, high quality camera, but we live in the visual world of movie theatres and big screen televisions. Don't forget, your printer plays an important part as well. Along with a digital camera, you will also need a good quality color printer.
Ease of Connection
Most cameras today use a USB connection. This is a hot swappable connection. Hot swappable means once you attach the camera, the computer will recognize it without the need to re-boot. Some newer computers even have built-in media card readers, so you can simply take the media card out of the camera and insert it into the computer to see the pictures and transfer them to the computer. If your computer doesn't have a built-in card reader, you can purchase one seperately. You will put your media card into the reader and plug it into the USB port.
Ease of Use
Any camera that you consider purchasing should be easy to use. Look for large, easy to understand buttons and straightforward documentation. Who wants to go through a time-consuming learning curve if you don't have to? Remember, the more features your camera has, the more complex it will be to operate. Try to match the camera's complexity to your photo experience. If you understand color balance and digital zooms, you may want to go for a full-featured camera. If not, look for a point-and-shoot variant that will offer you good results without a lot of manipulation.
File Storage
Cameras that use removable storage media are the best for almost all uses. CompactFlash or SecureDigital (SD) cards are the two most popular types of removable media. Both are very small disks. There is also a Micro SD card that is smaller than a thumbnail CompactFlash, SecureDigital, and Micro SD cards are not interchangeable. If you already own a piece of equipment that uses one type of card, you may want to purchase a camera that uses that same type of card. Neither of these formats is particularly better than the other, they are just different.
Batteries/AC Adapter
Batteries and battery life are of prime importance with digital cameras. Look for a camera that gives you longer battery life. Some cameras come with proprietary rechargeable batteries. If the camera you are interested in uses a special rechargeable battery, you may want to purchase an extra battery, one to use in the camera and the other to recharge and have ready as a replacement.
Many cameras use regular double or triple-A batteries. this is an added cost, but can be a big convenience because you can purchase these batteries at a local store almost anywhere in the world.
File Formats
If you are already using a certain type of software to manage your photos, make sure that your digital camera will produce photos in the file format that your software is using. The most common format in use today is called JPEG. It is possible to convert photos from one format to another, but you can save yourself that extra step by checking for compatibility before you purchase your camera.
Software
Almost all digital cameras come with software that allows you to download the photos to your computer. Often that software also allows you to edit the photos and make simple corrections. You should base your camera decision on the camera itself. Look at the software that comes with your camera as an added bonus. If it performs well, you will be a bit happier. If the software that accompanies the camera does not perform to your expectations, you can always purchase additional software or use one of the many free photo editing programs like Google's Picasa.
Features
A good built-in flash is essential for interior shots and for those dreary months when you may need to light up an exterior shot as well. Other features to consider are zoom and wide-angle lenses which can make your photos much more effective.
Quality of the Company
Look at the company behind the camera as much as the camera itself. You need to make sure there is support for the product.
Warranty
Know what is covered under the warranty. Check where the service providers are located. Are they local or will you have to send the camera in for service? In addition, check to see how easy it will be to get repairs done once your warranty has expired.
Know Your Cameras Capabilities
Take the time to learn all about your new camera and how it works. The time you invest in reading the manual and taking practice shots will reap endless benefits. Also investigate the capabilities of your new camera thoroughly. Many digital cameras come with an S-Video connector that allows you to connect your camera to a television set for viewing and even creating a slideshow of your photographs.
Say "Cheese"
Once you have acquired a digital camera, you will be overwhelmed with the fun and photographic potential the camera gives you when paired with your computer. Your energy and imagination will be well challenged. Impressive and valuable shots are now within your shutter sights.
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