So you're ready to leave the film behind and buy a digital camera. Before you start shopping, ask yourself how you plan to use the camera.
Next, decide how much resolution you'll need. Resolution is measured in pixels, which are tiny dots of light that create an electronic image. The higher the resolution, the greater the detail of the image, and the larger it can be printed with clarity.
For example, a 5- to 6-megapixel camera will produce a good-quality, 8×10-inch print. Remember, higher megapixel cameras do use more memory, but megapixels can be adjusted.
Almost all digital cameras sold today don't come with enough memory, but secure digital (SD) cards can be purchased for added memory. Cards range in storage size from 256MB to 4G.
Some models come with batteries that won't provide enough power. Rechargeable batteries are a must for these cameras.
Pay more attention to a camera's optical zoom rather than its digital zoom. Optical zoom not only gets you closer to the action but also gives you all the benefits of the camera’s maximum resolution.
Generally, the majority of digital cameras range from $200 to $500. What's important is that you choose a camera you’re comfortable with. In the case of digital cameras, bigger is not always better.
So you're ready to leave the film behind and buy a digital camera. Before you start shopping, ask yourself how you plan to use the camera.
The PowerShot A540 has 6 megapixels, 4× optical zoom, 2.5-inch LCD screen, 21 shooting modes, video recording, and uses two AA batteries or rechargeable batteries for versatility. MSRP is $279.99.
Product | Specifications | Price* | Web link |
Casio | EX-Z600 offers 6 megapixels, 3× optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD screen, Super Life battery, movie function, and Rapid Flash. | $279.99 | www.agriculture.com/go/6130 |
Fujifilm | FinePix E900 has 9 megapixels, 4× optical zoom, Real Photo Technology, fully automatic features, 2-inch LCD screen, and is powered by two AA NiMH rechargeable batteries. | $349.00 | www.agriculture.com/go/6131 |
Leica | C-LUX 1 offers 6 megapixels, 3.6× optical zoom, 2.5-inch LCD screen, video capabilities, and lithium ion battery. | $495.00 | www.agriculture.com/go/6132 |
Panasonic | Lumix DMC-FX01K has 6 megapixels, 3.6× optical zoom, 2.5-inch LCD screen, MEGA optical image stabilization, and 16:9 image recording. | $299.95 | www.agriculture.com/go/6133 |
Pentax
| The Optio T10 offers 6 megapixels, 3× optical zoom, 3-inch LCD screen, video capabilities, and touch display operation.
| $357.00
| www.agriculture.com/go/6134 |
Ricoh
| Caplio RR1 has 4 megapixels, 3× optical zoom, 9 capture modes including video, and multiangle monitor.
| Contact a local dealer
| www.agriculture.com/go/6135 |
Samsung
| The Digimax S600 offers 6.1 megapixels, 3× optical zoom, 2.4-inch LCD screen, and 10 scene modes.
| $219.00
| www.agriculture.com/go/6136 |
Sanyo
| Xacti E6 (VPC-E6U) has 6.37 megapixels, 3× optical zoom, 3-inch LCD screen, and video capabilities.
| $200.00
| www.agriculture.com/go/6137 |
Sony | Cyber-shot DSC-W50 offers 6 megapixels, Carl Zeiss 3× optical zoom, 2.5-inch LCD screen, and High Sensitivity mode for low-light shots. | $229.95 | www.agriculture.com/go/6138 |
| *Prices are approximate and may vary depending on where you purchase. |
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