Compare Digital Camera Features & Prices
With hundreds of digital cameras on the market and new models produced every year, choosing the right model for your purposes can be challenging. By comparing digital camera features and prices, however, the decision process becomes much easier.
Instructions
1. Decide whether portability or picture quality is most important for your needs. Though size and picture quality are not mutually exclusive, larger SLR cameras are generally designed for optimum photo quality. SLR cameras are larger and heavier than pocket-sized models preferred by most for general purpose photos. SLRs are also usually much more expensive than smaller digital cameras. Shape or "feel" is also a consideration as SLRs are ergonomically designed for two hands, whereas a smaller camera is designed for quick and simple access.
2. Choose a camera with a battery that suits your needs. Small cameras may include long life internal batteries charged with a power cable. Others use standard AA or long life rechargeable AA batteries. Larger cameras use model-specific batteries that can be removed to charge. Purchasing replacement or extra batteries verses the cost and time to charge also becomes a price consideration. Compare the typical battery life specifications for each camera model and the type of battery you prefer to decide which model suits your typical photo needs.
3. Compare megapixels. Generally, the higher the megapixel number on the camera, the better photo quality is possible. Certain highly technical factors in a camera model can produce better photo quality even though the designated megapixels are lower or the same. For example, a 10 megapixel SLR camera will generally take better photos than a 10 megapixel pocket camera because speed, lens, compression and other factors affect photo quality, too. If you are comparing a 10 megapixel camera with a 2 megapixel camera, however, you can safely bet on the 10 megapixel camera producing a better photo. For cameras in the same price and quality range, higher megapixels may indicate a higher price.
4. Check the specifications for each camera's lens and zoom. A high-quality lens such as Zeiss or Nikon can make a big difference in photo quality. Similarly, check the camera specifications for zoom features. A high-optical zoom can be desirable. Optical zoom functions on the mechanical aspects of the lens. A high-digital zoom, however, can actually cause a digital noise or "pixilated" version of the image you're trying to capture. A good lens with optical zoom is a more expensive, yet favorable digital camera feature, but be aware that high-digital zooms can be problematic for some photographers.
5. Examine the amount of memory that may be included in the digital camera and the type of memory card that can be added for additional memory. Some types and models of memory cards are rated faster than others, but this feature is generally considered by consumers who already use a specific type of memory card. If another device or family member already uses a specific type of memory card, choosing a camera that uses the same type can be beneficial for swapping cards and the availability of card readers. Common types are SD, xD, CF and Sony.
6. Weigh your preference for a view finder or view screen. Many experienced photographers prefer a view finder similar to film SLR cameras, with the eye held close. Others prefer view screens to direct shots. With digital cameras, whether one prefers a view finder or a view screen for taking photos, a reasonably large view screen with features to display photos even under challenging light conditions (like direct sunlight) is a favorable feature. Part of the appeal of digital photography is the ability to review photos "on the go."
7. Read consumer reviews and view sample images to help refine your choice. With a specific price range, preferred features and quality specifications determined, the last step is to compare prices offered by vendors. Shop online and at your local electronics and photography retail shops. Consider taxes and shipping costs at this level of price comparison.
Tags: photo quality, megapixel camera, better photo, digital cameras, memory card