Selecting a Digital Camera

There are various factors that come to mind when buying a digital camera. When you're investing so many dollars for a camera, you want to make sure you don't buy a model that doesn't really suit your purpose or is much too advanced for your requirements. We have listed a few pointers that may assist you in making the right buying decision.

CCD Or CMOS?

CCD and CMOS are the two types of image sensors used in digital cameras. Cameras with CCD sensors are recommended over CMOS plainly because the image quality is tremendously better in the former. Though CMOS lenses are significantly cheaper to manufacture and easier to implement than CCDs, the difference in image quality is simply passable.

CMOS sensors are extremely portable and require considerably lesser battery power— precisely why their most common application is in webcams and phone cams.

The Price Factor

The price for a decent 3-megapixel digital camera can start at around $200 and can go to well and above $ 1200 for a 7-plus megapixel model. Features vary from one model to another. While some low end cameras offer complete manual control for amateur photographers who wish to experiment, some stick to the strict point-and-click norm.
If you belong to the latter category, the lowest end model will be more than enough for your needs, but if you take photography seriously and would prefer to have options to tweak every setting that affects your image, you may want to shell out a bit more for that slightly better 'prosumer' camera.

The Megapixel Myth

First things first—higher megapixel count is in no way a measure of the quality of your pictures. Quality is determined by the image sensor; megapixel count simply denotes how big your image would be. For any home user who wants to post snapshots on the Internet or print them on a maximum of an A4 size photo paper does not need anything more than a 3-megapixel camera.

Though the megapixel count does not directly relate to image quality, it is noticed that the higher megapixel cameras have more professional features, hence they are generally more expensive.

Amateur photographers and prosumers may want to invest in a 4-5 megapixel camera for some of its advanced options. We have listed a guideline as to what megapixel count would be suitable for a particular sized print. You can choose your type of camera based on the size of your prints.

Ready Reckoner: Mega-pixel count vis-a-vis Print size

3MP 5 x 7 inches to 8 X 10 inches

4MP 8 x 10 inches to 8.5 X 11 inches

5MP 8.5 x 11 inches to 9 X 12 inches

6MP 9 x 12 inches to 11 X 14 inches

8MP 14 x 17 inches to 16 X 20 inches

Features You May Require

When you buy a digital camera, there are some additional features you may want to examine. As mentioned earlier, manual override function may be appreciated by advanced users as they can enjoy complete control of what they are shooting.

Besides that just keep your eyes open for basic features such as the kind of flash options, red eye flash, self timer, black and white/sepia modes and the optical zoom level.

Most digital cameras have some video shooting capability. Don't forget to check whether the digital camera you are buying records video with or without sound.

Bundled Goodies

Digital cameras usually come with little or no on board memory. Even if the manufacturer does put some on board memory, it won't exceed 8-16 megabytes, which won't last you too long. That's why its important you consider a seller who bundles a memory card along with the camera.

Also, make sure that along with drivers for your computer, there's some bundled software included for sorting, cataloging and minor image manipulations.

The good news is you won't have to worry too much about this part because the above mentioned bundle has become an industry standard. However, it's a good idea to keep your eyes open for additional accessories you may want to purchase for your camera.

Durability And Warranty

When it comes to electronics, bad things always happen when you least expect them to. It is a good idea to be prepared for the worst. This means even having to pay a little more when you purchase your camera.

Almost all officially purchased cameras are accompanied by a one-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects. Moreover, most warranties are valid worldwide (although, it would be a good idea to check this for every individual purchase) and this adds to the safety and value.