Features to Look for When Purchasing a Digital Camera

By Lori S. Anton

You've done your homework, and you can hardly wait to purchase your very first digital camera. You've carefully considered "why" you want the camera, and what function it will serve. You've also determined what resolution, compression, and memory capacities to look for when determining what camera to buy.

In addition to those listed above, there are several other factors a wise consumer will want to consider. One such consideration is power source. Digital cameras require far more power to function than traditional cameras. Digital cameras use either traditional batteries, or a rechargeable battery pack; some also come with an AC adapter.

If the camera you select uses traditional batteries, you may want to invest in rechargeable batteries and a re-charger. Even if the camera comes with a rechargeable battery pack, consider purchasing an extra one so you never risk being without power.

Connection source and method are also important considerations. All digital cameras come with the software required to download pictures to a computer. Make sure the camera you select is compatible with your computer. Most high-end cameras come with software and connections for both Mac and PC computers.

Many digital cameras include the cables and/or cards required to connect it to your computer; others require that you purchase cables separately. Some cameras come with the added plus of image-editing software to enhance photos' appearance and quality.

Since digital cameras can use a variety of different interfaces, pay special attention to the requirements of the camera you select. Some use a serial or parallel interface. Some come with a PCMCIA interface for use with a notebook computer. Others use a wireless infrared that requires no cables or cards, or use 3.5-inch floppy disks instead of memory cards.

All these aspects are important considerations before purchasing a digital camera. Also to consider are extra features available that either enhance picture-taking ease, or add to the picture-taking experience and viewing pleasure.

• Digital cameras that come with an LCD viewfinder are very popular. The viewfinder allows you to see exactly what the picture will look like before it is taken. It also allows you to look over other photos taken, and has a delete function to rid the memory card of unwanted photos.
  
  
• The length of a camera's lens determines how much of a particular scene will fit into a picture. A telephoto lens allows for zoom shots of faraway objects, to make them look nearer. Anything shorter than 50mm is considered wide-angle (used for landscapes); anything longer is considered telephoto (for close ups).
  
  
• A self-timer allows the picture taker to get into the photo. It also helps prevent camera shake caused by manually pushing the exposure button.
  
  
• Some of the newer cameras have audio recording capacity, giving the option to record a personal sound bite into the photo. And some cameras include a "video out" function that allows the camera to be hooked up to a television to view the pictures.

Now slimmer, lighter, and more versatile than ever, a vase selection of digital cameras are available to consumers. Quality cameras priced anywhere from $250 to $1,000 and up. The purchase of a digital camera can be a very wise investment, indeed. Especially when considering the convenience it offers, and money saved from not having to purchase camera film.

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