I want a Digital Camera !

Now if you’re thinking of buying a digital camera and you’re confused which one to buy…well help is on the way. I won’t say which brand or model is the best, but just a few points to think, which might help you to make a decision.

Most of the times we get carried away with what the salesman has to say, so do your homework in advance. Below are a few things to ask yourself:

* What type of camera do you want? Point and Shoot or DSLR?

* Am I going to shoot in Auto mode, or maybe I’ll do some creative photography?

* What is my budget?

* What features are you looking at?

  -Compact/portable

  -Large LCD

  -Macro, Zoom, Wide Angle

  -Weight/Size

  -Maintenance

  -Easy to use / Complexity

  -Speed

  -Image Quality/Mega Pixels

Mega Pixels!! Almost all of the time the salesman is going to say “Check this camera it has 18 Mega Pixel” it’s the latest. Don’t just jump for it. Consider what you’re going to do with your pictures. Just upload them on Facebook? Print a normal album size or you might want to blow them up wall size pictures. If you’re not going to print large size pictures then, a minimum 5 MP camera will be just fine. I’m not saying Large MP cameras are bad it’s just that you’ll be paying more for something you’re not going to use and its going to consume a lot of Hard Disk space.

If you have thought of going for a DSLR, the price tag on the camera isn’t going to always be the final price. There are a few extras to consider (may be not at that time but in near future) you will need to get an External Flash, Tripod, Monopod, Extra Batteries, Lenses, Filters, Memory cards, Camera Bag, Remote shutter release, to name a few.

A thing to consider on a P&S camera is the zoom range. It is recommended that you opt for more Optical zoom rather than Digital zoom. Digital zoom simply enlarges the pixels in your shot which does make your subject look bigger and also more pixilated.

So now let’s say you narrowed down to a few camera models, your next best friend to consult is…Google! Go read some reviews on those few you selected. Then go to your favourite store and check out hands-on the feel and look of the camera.

A lot more things can be added to consider purchase of a digital camera. This is just my general take on buying one. Take your time in reviewing the pro’s and con’s and what do I need or what do I want in a camera.

...and when you do get one just SnapThat!