Buying a digital camera can be a challenging task given the wide variety of options. Over the years, the digital technology has increased to the point that it is virtually as effective as a film camera. The number of features available in consumer models has also increased.
DSLR or Point and Shoot
Digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras have interchangeable lenses and generally provide a higher image quality than point and shoot (P&S) cameras. However, these cameras are generally larger and more expensive than P&S cameras. When considering which type to buy, consider how much you want to spend, what quality of picture you need, and how portable you need the camera to be.
Megapixels
The number of megapixels a digital camera has is probably the most well-known measure of determining how good a camera is. Only 4 megapixels are needed to print a 4-by-6-inch photo, but extra megapixels allow for cropping and editing without losing image quality. For the best quality prints, you will need about 6 megapixels. For an average quality print, an image from an 8 megapixel camera could be enlarged up to 20-by-30 inches.
Lens Type
On DSLRs, the lenses are interchangeable and will generally be purchased separately from the camera body. For point-and-shoot cameras, the lens can either be folded into the camera body, which is excellent for people who need a compact camera; a retractable lens, which usually provides slightly better quality and can retract into the camera body; or a fixed lens, which usually provides the best quality but limits how compact the lens can be.
ISO Settings
ISO settings allow cameras to take better pictures in low light. The standard setting is 100, but cameras can be set to up to 6400 ISO. The higher the ISO, the faster the shutter speed, which allows people to take pictures in low light that aren't blurry or shaky. However, the number isn't the only thing to check. The higher quality of the camera the less noisy, or grainy, the picture will appear when higher ISO settings are used.
Manual vs. Automatic Settings
Before making a final decision, examine the settings available. Most people won't need to worry about these settings because the camera's settings will be adequate. However, if you want to set your own shutter speed, aperture, white balance or any number of other settings, make sure the camera allows you to set them yourself.
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