Digital Cameras - A Buying Guide
February 24, 2010
Digital Camera Functioning
Digital Cameras were launched in the market in the early 90s. Over the years, cameras have quite successfully evolved, starting with the conventional analog cameras which make use of the photographic film rolls for capturing images, to the current day digital cameras that go on to capture images electronically, in other words, digitally, for the computer processing of images. Though, before buying a camera, analyse and assess your exact need first, such as whether you need it for business purposes or professional photography or casual shooting or a beginner's gadget along with your budget.
Digital Camera Factors
Digital Camera Factors include key areas such as resolution, memory, flash type, burst mode, optical zoom, digital zoom, compression, power source, lens, focal length range, focus, exposure, LCD screen, self timer, memory and image storage capacity, multimedia connectivity and manual controls.
Digital Camera Types
Digital Cameras can further be classified as compact, prosumer, digital single lens reflex (DSLR), micro four thirds and the interchangeable lens units. Compact digital cameras are small, lightweight, quite easy to use, some models are so convenient to carry that they easily slip into your shirt pocket. They shoot quality images and double up as great point and shooters. Some of the compact models come with advanced features along with semi automatic as well as manual controls. The compact digital cameras are the most flexible and versatile types of consumer level digital cameras. Prosumer digital cameras offer a convenient combination of professional and consumer level needs by sporting high quality lenses, advanced features and super zoom ranges. The DSLR (digital single lens reflex) cameras are used by top line enthusiasts and high end professionals since they deliver high resolution images with outstanding optics, interchangeable lenses, sophisticated accessories as well as extensive manual controls for capturing the best in adventurous, innovative and creative photography. Micro four thirds are smaller than DSLRs, but do not have the reflex mirrors and the optical viewfinders, they come with large sensors too. The interchangeable lens units have a body but come with separate camera units with their own different lens, image sensor as well as the image processing engine too.
Digital Camera Conclusion
To sum it up, you have to look at the exact requirement and the budget in order to choose and buy the right digital camera of your choice. Simply put, there is no point in choosing a DSLR if your purpose happens to be casual photography for beginners. Though digital cameras make use of the lens, diaphragm, shutter, exposure control, viewfinder and the focus for capturing pictures, the purpose of photography is to capture photographs that are interesting enough for other people to see and enjoy. For some, it is a matter of just pointing and shooting for the capture of the best moments in life. While for others, it is about the composition which includes factors such as point of interest, simplicity, contrast, viewpoint, framing, balance, direction of movement, diagonals and the rule of thirds. The beauty of digital photography not only lies in capturing optimum photographs, but also in the process.
Digital Camera Buying Guide
September 23, 2006
Major technological breakthroughs opened new doors in getting analog data turned into digital information. The digital age ushered in more inventions, developed existing products, and opened more potential for the multi-media industry. Popular consumer electronics have gone digital, and have become permanent fixtures of everyone’s home, office, or business establishment. The fast-paced change in technology has greatly determined and presented unlimited possibilities on how consumers deal with visual and audio data.
The Shift to Digital Cameras
One of the best examples of the shift to digital data are digital cameras. Digital cameras are different from conventional cameras because the latter highly depend on chemical and mechanical processes while digital cameras capture images electronically which are processed in computers. While digital cameras have increasingly become more saleable because of its more functional and flexible features, image taken by conventional cameras are superior in quality. That is why the exploding popularity of digital cameras have not yet rendered obsolete those handy conventional cameras. Interestingly, recent announcement by a major camera company to phase-out film cameras are met with intense opposition from some film aficionados.
Tips for Buying Digital Cameras
Know the basics - Simply put, a digital camera is an electronic device that records and stores images electronically, unlike conventional film-cameras that stores images in photographic film. There are two major types of digital cameras: digital still cameras and digital video cameras. A digital still camera captures images and turns it into digital data. A basic model basically has a flash memory, universal serial bus (USB) or FireWire for transfer or storage, while the latest models have incorporated a video function. A digital video camera, on the other hand, captures moving images electronically. Those made for television and movies are commonly called professional digital video cameras. For amateur video enthusiasts, camcorders work for them. Camcorders basically have built-in microphone and a small LCD to watch video while recording or for playback. Identify your needs.
Know what you need your digital camera for - This is the best way to start off if you want to buy a camera with particular features in mind. If you are going to use if for video business purposes, check out the latest models with the best resolution, storage devices, power source and other features. Look out for the important specifications such as resolution, compression, memory and image capacity, power source, LCD viewfinders, lens, optical vs. digital zoom, focus and exposure, movie mode, TV and computer connectivity, and other features.
Work around your budget, but be prepared to be flexible. The price range for digital cameras varies according to the camera’s resolution and features. The newest releases are always more expensive, while older ones are sure to fetch bargain price, you can also compare UK digital camera prices and shop by brands. But do shop around wisely, and do not yield to the common misconception that the latest releases are the choice. Again, do your research. Surf the Internet, go over product catalogues, call up seller companies, or consult your friends. That is the only way to get the digital camera that you want, at your money’s worth.
Digital Camera buying - Some tips
May 30, 2006
Buying Digital Cameras
Right...who has time to read all those lengthy buying guides.. After buying a few cameras, here are a few tips based on my experiences.
Set your budget - and stick to it
Cameras have come down so much in price..nowadays you can get a good camera for much less than what you paid a year or two back. There are so many cameras on the market - you will be dazed when you do shopping for one. Like many others (and myself) it is easier to spend more than what you need to.
Know what you need
Do a bit of homework. I bought a £100 camera (a Kodak 3.2 megapixel) a year back. Then I went and paid £400 for a Sony DSC T33 since it was 5+ megapixel, looked nice and I liked the display. Looking back, for my use, I didnt get anything more out of a £400 camera than what I got from a £100 one. You will only need much higher megapixels if you are doing large prints. It is very easy to get sucked into paying a few 100 more for a higher spec or a posher looking camera which has all the specs in the world - but you may never use. I will continue with more tips later..
