Digital Camera Buying Guide

Considerations when purchasing

Digital camera prices range from under $100 to over $3000. Knowing what you expect to accomplish with the camera will help you sort through the models and features. We have listed several prominent features of digital cameras and a brief explanation. Our experts will help you find the perfect model for your needs. By reviewing these features and considering the questions down the right column you will be more informed as we start discussing options.

Resolution & Picture Quality

What is the largest size print you anticipate making regularly?

Choose a model with one more Megapixel to allow for cropping and the occasional larger print.

The term "Megapixel" refers to resolution. Digital photos are made of dots or picture elements called pixels .
Digital cameras use millions of pixels to make your image, hence the term Mega (for million) pixel. For example, a 3 Megapixel camera generates up to 3 million pixels to create a photo. The more pixels created, the larger you can print your image and still have it look sharp.

Digital cameras allow you to shoot at resolutions lower than their maximum. For example, you can purchase a 4 Megpixel camera and set it for 1, 2, 3 or 4 Megapixels. You can easily change the resolution for different situations. Use a lower setting when you won’t be making big prints and a higher setting for photos you may want to enlarge. The chart below shows how many Megapixels are needed for different print sizes. Shooting at resolutions higher than indicated will NOT yield sharper pictures, and the images will take up more memory. Lower Megapixel settings will allow more images to fit on your memory card.

Print
size:		 Minimum
pixel dimensions		 Minimum
megapixels:		 Recommended
megapixels:

4×6

800×600*

1

2

5×7

1280×960

2

3

8×10

1600×1200

3

4

11×14

2000×1500

4

5

12×18

2000×1500

4

5

20×30

2500×1800

5

6

Picture quality is determined by several factors including lens quality and software within the camera. Higher resolution does not necessarily equate to better pictures. Dan’s has sample pictures from dozens of models so you can compare.

Zoom Lens

Will you be taking photos of kids, sporting events, or scenery?

Look for a 4x or higher zoom lens so you can fill the photo with your subject even when you can’t get close.

As with traditional film cameras most models have zoom lenses. Some newer models zoom up to an amazing 10× which is comparable to a 35-350mm zoom on film cameras. Optical zoom refers to the true magnification capabilities of the lens.

Many cameras offer a ‘digital zoom’, which electronically magnifies your image. This is not the same as an optical zoom. Digital zooms provide additional magnification, but image quality is reduced compared to an optical zoom. Be certain to look at the optical zoom rating, as some companies are not clear how much of their zoom range is optical vs. digital.

wide angle

3× zoom

10× zoom

Size

Would you take more pictures if you always had your camera handy?

There are several very compact models for easier carrying convenience.

Digital cameras come in many different shapes and sizes. Some small enough to fit in an Altoids tin, others as large as a conventional SLR. Size is a function of a variety of factors including the zoom range, ruggedness, expandability, handling preferences and price.

Full Motion Movies

Do you have a young child or hobbies involving action?

Being able to record videos and still photos with the same camera is very convenient.

Most models record video clips. While not as high in quality as a camcorder, this is a fun feature as you can watch the movies on your TV or email them to friends and family.

Different models offer different capabilities for the movie feature. Some will only record short bursts, others will allow you to fill up your memory card. Some models record sound, others only make silent movies. Newer models record at a higher resolution and faster rate for a higher quality video.

Burst shooting

Will you be taking photos of action or young kids?

Choose a model with burst capabilities to increase the likelihood of getting the exact photo you want.

Cameras with a burst feature can take several photos in rapid succession. The number of photos and how quickly they are taken varies by model. Some only take a couple photos per burst while others take several. Some models record as many as four photos per second, while others only one per second. Burst shooting works best outdoors. Models without a burst feature require you to wait several seconds between photos.

LCD Viewscreen

These are beneficial for previewing composition and for reviewing photos after you have taken them to ensure you captured the photo the way you want. Some models use small screens, either to keep the camera compact or lower in price. Larger screens are easier to see. Sizes range from approximately 1.5 to 2.2 inches.

Manual options

While the majority of your photos will be perfect using the full automatic mode, sometimes having more control is useful. Many models offer manual options. With these you may achieve better results for freezing action, compensating for tricky lighting or accomplishing a specific effect. Options often include adjustments to exposure, contrast and color balance.

Macro

Most digital cameras allow you to shoot much closer to your subject than film cameras. Getting close-ups of flowers, collectibles and other items is easy with a macro setting. Some models can focus as close as an inch away, others must be 8 or 10 inches away.

Memory Cards

There are several different types of cards available. They all work equally well and prices are similar. There is no need to be concerned which particular card a camera uses when deciding which camera to purchase.

Next page: Digital camera accessories