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Buying a first digital camera
With the vast number, types and prices of digital cameras on the market, buying your first one may seem a bewildering task. It really doesn't have to be. Camera size
Digital cameras come in a variety of shapes, sizes and prices from ultra-compacts that fit in a pocket or purse to slightly larger compact cameras that usually have more features. Advanced digital cameras, often larger and bulkier than compact models, have even more features such as an hot shoe, long zoom lens and a number of settings that can be customized.
Shooting style
Your shooting style should play a part in determining the size and type of digital camera you buy. Whether a casual shooter or a photo enthusiast going from film to digital, there is a camera that suits most of your needs. Our digital camera choosing chart helps you decide based on style and level of interest.
A word about Megapixels
More megapixels doesn't necessarily mean a camera has better quality than one with less megapixels. Unless you make huge prints or crop a lot when editing, a camera with 4-6 megapixels should more than suffice (even a 3-4 megapixel camera will do for many but they are hard to come by today).
Digital camera simplicity
Even modestly priced digital cameras have a lot of bells and whistles and will require some time and effort to learn. Most novice and first time buyers should stick with a camera that is relatively easy to use with point-and-shoot simplicity: fully automatic and have a variety of pre-programmed scene modes.
Visit a store even if planning to buy online
Once you decide the type of camera you want, head to a camera store...even if you plan to buy online.
Hold a couple of cameras. They do not all feel alike. In fact some may feel downright uncomfortable. Check the ergonomics to make sure the size, balance, weight and placement of buttons and dials feel comfortable in your hands.
The local camera shop
If you're a first time digital camera buyer, consider purchasing at a local camera shop. You may pay a bit more but there are definite advantages including the availability of help after the purchase.
Don't make a hasty decision
Digital cameras aren't cheap so don't let a salesperson coax you into buying prematurely. Narrow down your choices to two or three cameras. If you can, hold off buying right away. When you get home, read online reviews made by owners of the cameras to help solidify your decision.
Digital camera return policy
Before making a purchase, ask about the return policy. Some stores charge a hefty restocking fee if the camera is not faulty. Make sure you can live with it if you decide to return the camera.
Don't leave home without this
Whatever you do, don't shop without a copy of our FREE Digital Camera Buying Checklist in hand. It helps you ask the right questions to make an informed purchasing decision.