Finding the perfect digital camera is not hard. If you’re looking for your first camera, or replacing your current one, determine how you will use it, then look for the features you need in your price range.
Before delving into the different types of cameras, let’s take a quick look at megapixels. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about this aspect too much. Most standalone digital cameras have at least 3 megapixels of resolution; that’s good for printing a clear 8-by-10-inch picture.
However, if you want to crop a photo and then print an 8-by-10, or if you need super-size prints, you’ll want 4 megapixels or more.
Do you just want to turn on your camera, point it at your subject and click the button? Take a look at the compact-camera category.
These easy-to-use cameras do just about everything but say “cheese.” You will have some control over how the camera takes the picture.
Most have flash options (off, on, fill, red-eye reduction). They also have pre-programmed exposure modes, which will automatically change the camera’s exposure to accommodate different conditions, such as bright or low-lit areas or action shots.
Some well-reviewed compact cameras are the Canon PowerShot A510 ($150; 3 megapixels), Kodak EasyShare CX7430 ($180; 4 megapixels) and the Hewlett- Packard Photosmart R717 ($220; 6 megapixels).
Smaller versions that fit into your pocket are sleeker, thinner, lighter and often snazzier, but that style usually equals a larger price tag. Some standouts in this category are the Canon PowerShot SD300 ($240; 4 megapixels), Casio Exilim EX-750 ($325; 7 megapixels) and the Pentax Optio SV (under $235; 5 megapixels).
Most cameras have optical and digital zooms. Don’t worry about digital zoom; it isn’t very useful because it isn’t a true zoom. All it does is digitally crop and enlarge a portion of the image, losing image quality in the process. Optical zoom is a true zoom because it involves using the optics, that is, the lens, to bring subjects closer. The longer the telephoto zoom lens, the more distant the objects it can bring closer.
Most cameras have at least a 3x optical zoom. Some go to 10x or 12x – truly long-range lenses. Two cameras with good reviews that let you get close to the action are the Fujifilm FinePix S5100 ($290; 4 megapixels; 10x) and the Olympus C-770 Ultra Zoom ($290; 7 megapixels; 10x).
For even more flexibility, consider a digital single-lens reflex camera. These cameras allow you to swap lenses. Use a wide-angle lens to photograph the Grand Canyon and switch to a telephoto for a close-up of wildlife. Two well-reviewed digital SLRs are the Canon EOS 20D ($1,300; 8 megapixels) and Nikon D 70 ($1,000; 6 megapixels).
Cameras use either fairly expensive rechargeable proprietary batteries or regular alkaline batteries. If possible, go with regular batteries. If you exhaust your batteries, you can get more at any drugstore.
Kim Komando can be contacted at gnstech@gns.gannett.com.
