Online Camera Reviews, and Why They Can Simplify the Process of Buying a Digital Camera
12/24/2013 09:33Online camera reviews have greatly simplified the surprisingly intimidating task of purchasing a digital camera. With so many digital cameras from so many manufacturers available, all of which are hawking their fancy new features, it can be easy to become overwhelmed. Finally, the world wide web has given us the means to share infinite amounts of data with one another, and everything from expert recommendations to user experiences is now at our fingertips for us to read and consider.
With that in mind, here are some of the most crucial points to factor into your purchasing decision:
First of all, do NOT purchase a camera based solely on it's mp count. The higher mega pixel camera takes the same quality of photo as the one with a lesser pixel count. It's able to take a larger image, but the dots per inch (dpi), which determines the quality, is equal. Usually, something around 5 mega pixels is perfect for the average user, but consult other online camera reviews to learn what works best in specific situations.
On the contrary, one thing that you absolutely DO want is an Image Stabilizer option. This basically means you can take clear, crisp movies and photos even if you are shaking, and all without the need to use a tripod.
In spite of what you may have read in other online camera reviews, DIGITAL zoom is basically a waste of time; it simply enhances the photo digitally, so it just makes the pixels larger as you zoom in. OPTICAL zoom, on the other hand, is actual zoom, meaning it zooms in without loss in quality because it literally uses the LENS option to zoom. Something around a 5x optical zoom is a good starting point (and remember, the digital zoom is basically irrelevant.)
Also, get a camera that has an option to connect an A/V cable. Displaying your shots to family and friends is significantly more fun and effective when showing them on your television than when gathering everybody around your computer or, worse yet, the little screen on the rear of your camera.
While the usefulness of having a viewfinder is often overlooked in this current digital age, don't underestimate the quick, convenient framing option it allows for. Since many of the viewfinder windows produced today are ridiculously small, make sure you get one that measures a minimum of 2 inches diagonally.
Try to purchase a camera that takes standard AA or AAA rechargeable batteries, and buy a battery charger that can charge the batteries in around an hour or so.
You'll want a large memory card holding at least 500MB (preferably a gigabyte), and one that operates at 120X speed or higher - or in other words, writes at 9 megabytes per second.
For movies, be sure that the camera has a minimum of 30 frames per second, and STEREO sound.
Finally, try to buy from one of the well-known, trusted brands, such as Nikon, Fujifilm, Canon, or Olympus. And don't be afraid to splurge on the extended warranty - remember, this is a significant purchase.
As far as exactly which digital camera to get, that is a matter of personal preference. I hope you have found these tips useful, and don't forget to consult as many online camera reviews as it takes to help you make your final decision. A great place to get started is right here. You'll find enough online camera reviews to keep you busy for a long time, and hopefully help you make your decision!Nikon cameras