Buy a Digital Camera
with
Brett Larson
Finding a quality camera that fits your budget can be a challenge. We'll help you cut through the lingo, from megapixels to digital zoom, so you can snap up the perfect camera for you.
Transcript: Buy a Digital Camera
Buying a digital camera can be mind boggling because you're inundated with choices. Before you hit the store, here are a few things to consider.Mega Pixels
First, mega pixels are arguably the most significant feature of the digital camera. The number of mega pixels indicate the quantity of individual dots, or pixels, that the camera uses to make a photograph, the more pixels, the finer the quality of the image.For the casual picture taker, 3 mega pixels should do the trick and you will be able to print reasonable 4 X 5 photographs, but for the more serious photographer looking for a finer image and larger prints, you might want to go 4 mega pixels or higher.
Generally speaking, the higher the mega pixels, the better the picture quality and the higher the cost of the camera.
Zoom
Another important feature is the zoom. Zooming allows you to get closer to the action, without physically getting closer to the action. There are two types of Zoom in every digital camera, Optical and Digital. But, Optical zoom tends to be clearer.Optical Zoom
Optical zoom is higher quality because it uses the glass of the lens to allow you to get closer to the subject, kind of like using a magnifying glass to see something small.Digital Zoom
Digital zoom is lower quality because it uses software inside the camera to enlarge the image. The disadvantage to digital zoom is that it can cause the image to be slightly out of focus.LCD
Another feature to consider is the LCD or liquid crystal display. Most digital cameras have screens to instantly view your photos. The displays on the newer models are getting bigger and are better for viewing in bright light. Some of the newer cameras are also saying bye bye to the old viewfinder.Camera Size
Last, but not least, you should think about the physical size and shape of the camera. Some larger models may be easier to grip, but the smaller, sleeker cameras certainly take up less space in your bag.Camera Research
Before you buy your digital camera, do some research, head to the store, and then try out some of the cameras you're considering in person. You wouldn't buy a new car without a test drive, would you?I'm Brett Larson, About Gadgets.