| So you have been sitting on the fence for a long | | | | than one mega pixel is suitable for web graphics. |
| time. You have been fishing for more information to | | | | Resolution of one to two will give you good web |
| justify spending money on the right digital camera | | | | graphics and good 4x6 prints. If you will be printing |
| you wanted to buy. If you have been thinking about | | | | 5x7 photos, look for a resolution of two to three |
| buying your first digital camera, you should be doing | | | | mega pixels. Resolution over six mega pixels will give |
| some research first. But is there such a thing like to | | | | you excellent quality prints up to 16 x 20. |
| perfect first camera? Before answering this question, | | | | Bigger is better when it comes to resolution. You can |
| lets take a basic primer on digital cameras. | | | | always set your camera to a lower resolution, but |
| With the rapid progress in technology, there is a | | | | you cannot increase the maximum. You should buy |
| dazzling array of options to choose from in the area | | | | the highest resolution that fits your budget. |
| of digital cameras. A bit of research on your part will | | | | Another important decision is battery type. Alkaline |
| ensure that you buy the right camera for your | | | | AA batteries don't hold a charge as long as lithium |
| needs. | | | | batteries will, particularly if you are using a flash. |
| There are three basic grades of digital cameras, | | | | However, the ability to purchase AA batteries almost |
| consumer, prosumer and professional. Your first step | | | | anywhere can be important, especially if you travel. |
| is to determine what type of camera and | | | | Lithium batteries last a long time, but they are |
| accessories are important to you as a photographer. | | | | expensive to replace. Nickel Cadmium batteries are |
| The are basically four main digital cameras sizes: | | | | rechargeable. They must be fully discharged prior to |
| 1. Ultra-compact- these cameras are about the size | | | | recharging, or you will get very poor performance |
| of a credit card, and fits easily into the front pocket | | | | from them. Another type of rechargeable battery is |
| of your jeans. | | | | the Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH). These batteries |
| 2. Sub-compact- these cameras will fit easily into your | | | | come in all standard sizes, and last about 400 |
| shirt pocket. | | | | charges. These are probably your best buy. Lion |
| 3. Point and Shoot - these are normal size cameras | | | | (Lithium Ion) batteries last about twice as long as the |
| with more features, and generally require a camera | | | | others last, and are generally purchased as an 'extra'. |
| bag. | | | | They are a newer type of battery and not as widely |
| 4. Single Lens Reflex (SLR)- high quality cameras that | | | | available as the others are. |
| have the look and feel of a 35 mm, with a | | | | There is no such thing as the best digital camera. You |
| detachable lens. | | | | have to determine your needs first and consider your |
| Another consideration is the type of pictures you will | | | | budget. Even a simple camera in the hands of a good |
| be taking. Are you going to share your pictures over | | | | photographer will produce breath taking photos. As |
| the internet, or are you more inclined to save them in | | | | for now, learn the basics first before moving on to |
| a photo album? The camera resolution determines | | | | more sophisticated cameras. |
| the quality of picture produced. A resolution of less | | | | |