Technology

Tips for Choosing a New Digital Camera

One can choose from more than 1,500 digital cameras, each with unique features and perks and sized to meet each user’s hands or budget. There are established names, up-and-coming names, and names nobody has heard of; where does one begin?

Getting a digital camera is as easy as picking up a brochure from one of the significant merchants selling them, figuring out how much money you want to spend, and making a purchase. You may rest assured that you won’t find low-quality products at any of these stores, so you can buy a decent camera there and then.

You could end up loving your buy and using it for the rest of your life, taking images and enjoying them.

However, there is a mental condition called “post-purchase trauma.” ‘I knew I shouldn’t have bought that…’ is a phrase we’ve all heard before, so this is nothing new. I wish I’d known about this other option, which is far better value; I didn’t realize I needed those characteristics, etc.

It would be best if you aimed to avoid doing this as often as possible, as doing so may cause you to lose some of the enthusiasm you initially felt when you made your exciting new purchase.

Did you know, for instance, that you can purchase cameras with a “Zit Fix” feature in the United States? The camera’s built-in ability to fix minor skin flaws makes it an excellent gift for youngsters. Or maybe you’ve always dreamed of owning a camera equipped with a “Smile Timer,” which delays the shutter release until the subject smiles. One that automatically takes two shots and deletes the one while the subject’s eyes are closed is called a “Blink Proof” camera.

Do you care a lot about these kinds of events? Or would you rather be the one in charge? Is taking pictures more your style, or would you instead make some alterations? “Do you want to take pictures or make pictures?” is a common expression.

With such a wide variety of digital cameras to choose from, and that number expanding by the day, it’s crucial to seriously consider your purchase to reduce the risk of making a costly mistake and experiencing PPTS.

As you make choices, the number of cameras available will decrease.

The ubiquitous compact camera has a zoom range of about 4X; the so-called ‘bridge’ camera is more significant and typically has an extensive zoom range – some go up to 24X; the Digital Single Lens Reflex camera (DSLR) with interchangeable lenses; and several what I term ‘new style’ cameras; mirror less, small bodies, big sensors, and interchangeable lenses.

What you’re going to buy is the first, and possibly most hesitant, decision you’ll make. Visit a camera shop and peruse the shelves, picking up and handling the various formats. In terms of portability and size, what do you prefer? You’ll be free to focus on the cameras in that specific region.

Before purchasing a tiny camera, consider whether the one on your phone would meet your needs. As phone cameras vary widely, this will be different for each model. Our following question will also play a role in determining this…

The second primary choice you must make is whether or not you desire the optional ability to adjust the aperture and shutter speed. It would be best if you learned to use these two controls manually to take your photography skills above the “point and shoot” level. Remember that photography is a fascinating pastime and that you might regret not investing in a camera with more advanced features once you get into it. It’s an extensive choice, so consider it seriously before making the “if only I had known I would have bought one of those…” comment familiar during my photography classes. I prioritized this over a budgetary decision because it could impact your financial plans.

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This decision effectively reduces the available camera count by half.

The next logical choice is based on available funds; this threshold will be a limiting factor for further decisions. Be practical and include everything you need, such as an extra battery, memory cards, and a carrying bag. If you want a solid sense of what’s out there, it’s best to increase your budget significantly for your initial inspection.

The second stage is to determine whether or not you place a premium on name recognition; if you do, you’ll have fewer options. Keeping an open mind is advisable since the variety of brands available is expanding, and some of the younger entries offer good items.

As we move forward in the buying process, we reach a set of choices that only you can make, and because nothing is simple, these options may change your mind about the type of camera you want.

To what extent do you value the ability to edit your photos? Cameras with 10+ megapixels (or higher, if your budget allows) and the ability to capture images in RAW format are ideal for serious photographers because these files include significantly more data information than the more popular JPEG format. Again, this will limit your options because many cameras do not support this feature.

Do you care about getting there quickly? I mean by “speed” is how quickly the camera can focus and how quickly it can start up and recycle between shots. Do your testing of the cameras. In general, DSLR cameras do exceptionally well in these two areas.

Do you plan on shooting both stills and videos with your new camera? Again, the number of cameras you can use will be constrained by the novelty of the technology. If you’re concerned about the video quality, ask the salesperson.

Do you value a high zoom ratio? The convenience of built-in lenses comes at the expense of steadiness and picture quality, but they are helpful. They’re also getting smaller and smaller. Once again, you are the only one who can decide. Is a powerful zoom necessary? Think about how often you’ll need the extra features of a larger camera body versus the portability benefits.

Consider the camera’s size and weight before storing it in the hotel safe. A DSLR with a few lenses is bulky; remember that the camera you already have with you is the most excellent camera possible.

Magazines often provide in-depth reviews of cameras, and you can find similar reviews online at sites like http://www.dpreview.com. Such sites can be an excellent resource for comparing different cameras. Choosing a reliable camera retailer is essential.

Ultimately, though, you should evaluate whether or not the camera is comfortable in your hands. Whereabouts on the controls do you find the knobs, buttons, and dials most convenient?

One of the most crucial indicators is the ‘WOW’ factor (I couldn’t be more pleased with my new camera).

Remember that you are the only one who can pick which camera is right for you. Take the time to research and choose a choice that will serve you well in the long run. In addition to the fun of shopping for a new camera, you’ll gain valuable knowledge by doing your homework.

I hope you have much success and fun with your new camera.

Who Wrote It:

Photographer Roger Lee has seen the world and lived through many of photography’s eras.
Over 700 people have taken his one-day workshop, “Enjoy Your Camera with Creative Photography.”
For those who “don’t want to drown in detail” and “just want to know how to enjoy their cameras,” he has written an e-book based on his expertise.
You may view and acquire the four volumes (three main books and one additional book on travel photography) at http://www.camerabasics.info.
Excellent for savoring the photographic experience.

linda