By M&C Staff Dec 9, 2009, 10:15 GMT
Digital cameras are always a hot item at holiday time, but it is important to shop wisely. The prices of digital cameras have dropped quite a bit in recent years, but buying one ist sill a major commitment. By knowing what to look for you will be able to get the best possible digital camera for your money.
Optical Zoom
One of the most important things to look for in a digital camera is the optical zoom. Many camera manufacturers advertise both digital zoom and optical zoom, but it is important to focus on the optical part of the equation. The optical zoom is what allows camera users to close in on the action by bringing the subject closer. The digital zoom simply allows camera owners to zoom in on the image once it has been transferred to the computer, something that any good photo editing software package can do just as well.
Look for a Good Viewfinder
Most modern digital cameras are equipped with large LCD windows that allow users to see what they are shooting. Some cameras also include a traditional viewfinder that owners can look through. It is a good idea for digital camera shoppers to try both kinds of cameras, looking through the viewfinder and the LCD screen and assessing how easy it is to use both. Keep in mind that it may be difficult to see through the LCD screen in bright sunlight, so having a traditional viewfinder as well can be an excellent backup.
Size Matters
The size of digital cameras has been reduced greatly in recent years. These days there are some excellent digital cameras that can easily fit into a shirt pocket, and others small enough to fit on a keychain. When shopping or a new digital camera it is important to consider how you will be using the camera and choose a size that is appropriate to your needs.
Battery Life
Long battery life is essential for digital cameras, so it pays to research battery life before making a decision. Be sure to look for a camera with a long battery life, otherwise you will be spending a lot of your vacation time swapping out batteries.
Resolution
Good resolution is still an important consideration for digital camera buyers, but it is less of a consideration than it used to be. These days even the least expensive cameras in the store are likely to be at least 5 or 6 megapixel models, and at that resolution you should be able to get an excellent 8x10 photograph with no graininess.
Storage Capacity
Storage capacity is another important consideration for camera shoppers. Many bargain basement cameras come with a bare minimum of storage, so you will have to factor in the cost of additional storage capacity when calculating your budget. Luckily the price of digital camera storage has come down quite a bit, so you should be able to find a quality card at an affordable price.
Deals
Check out Amazon or Amazon UK for the latest deals on digital cameras.
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