Buyer’s Guide
Digital Camera Buyer's Guide
.jpg)
Updated October 2009 with new camera models
Whether you’re shooting your child’s birthday party, clicking images of friends at your local bar, or taking pictures on vacation, having a good digital camera will vastly improve the quality of your photos. Thankfully, there are tons of great options that won’t bust your budget. We'll help you understand what’s really important for you to consider when buying, and which options are just an excuse to charge you more money.
In this Guide
Choosing Your Type of Digital Camera
You’ve probably heard about the two main types of digital cameras: point-and-shoot models and SLRs (Single Lens Reflex). Point-and-shoots are great all-around cameras that provide a balance of features, size and quality. They also offer the ability to take videos, which is not usually found on SLRs (though the quality is not going to be nearly as good as you’d get with a camcorder).
Digital SLRs are what the professionals and serious amateurs use. They have detachable lenses – which gives you tons of flexibility for shooting in different situations – and exceptional picture quality. Another nice thing about digital SLRs, especially if you’re a mom trying to snap that shot of your baby’s first smile, is that they have very fast shutter response time, so you won’t miss a moment while waiting for your camera to snap the shot (after you push the button).
For most people, a point-and-shoot delivers the great quality they're looking for in a compact package. If the best image quality is your priority and you don't mind the extra bulk and the extra couple hundred dollars, a digital SLR is the way to go.
Important Features
How Many Megapixels?
A camera’s resolution is measured in megapixels. But, like many things in life, bigger is only better up to a point. Almost every camera on the market today has plenty of resolution (7 megapixels or more) for normal picture taking, and more megapixels is not necessarily better, especially for the tiniest point-and-shoot models. Instead of delivering more detail, these very high resolution models tend to deliver more noise (e.g. characterized by color inconsistencies—things like speckling—in large blocks of color, such as a blue sky). If you’re planning on heavy cropping and/or making poster-size enlargements, stick with the high-end 10 or 12 megapixel models.
Selecting the Right Lens
Your camera’s lens will have the largest impact on the quality of your images (outside of the skill of the photographer, that is). Nikon and Canon are known for their lens quality, but other manufacturers often include high-quality lenses from highly respected lens makers such as Carl Zeiss or Schneider-Kreuznach. Look for these names while shopping.
The lens also provides for those close-ups of smiling faces or zooming in on far away action, so you’ll want a camera with zoom capabilities. In this case, bigger really is better. Almost every point-and-shoot camera today comes with at least a 3x zoom and that should be your minimum. Just ignore anything about digital zoom. It simply enlarges the photo by blowing it up, something you can easily do at home on your computer. In fact, we recommend you turn off the digital zoom on your camera when taking pictures.
Finally, if you want to get the whole family in the picture at your reunion, look for manufacturer specifications under “focal length” for the "35mm equivalent." The lower the number of mm, the wider the shot. 28mm is perfect for wide group shots and landscapes, while 35mm-38mm is fine for regular photos.
A Display and a Viewfinder? Most point-and-shoot cameras have a 2.5-inch (or larger) display on the back that lets you frame your shot. For most situations, this is fine. But if you’re taking photos outside in brightly lit areas, the display will become washed out—sometimes to the point of being unusable. In these cases, you’ll want an optical viewfinder, which is what you’ll remember from “old-school” film cameras. It's the small, transparent window you look through at the top of the camera. Not all digital cameras come with this feature, especially entry-level products.
Why You Need Image stabilization and High ISO Speed
If your kids would just hold still while blowing out their birthday candles, blurry pictures wouldn’t be a problem. Good luck with that. Instead, look for a camera that provides high ISO speeds and image stabilization.
ISO is a technical way of measuring how sensitive your camera’s sensor is to light. The higher the ISO, the faster the shutter speed will be. The faster the shutter speed, the less blur. Most cameras have a top ISO rating of at least 800, which is fine for normal indoor and outdoor use. For better low-light shots, ISO 1600 or higher will help, though at these levels you may start to see a lot of picture noise (stray bits of color) introduced-- so don’t expect miracles.
Unless you’re a robot, your hands will have some level of shake while holding your camera. This can become a serious issue in low light situations, when the shutter speed has to slow down. It can also be magnified by high-zoom lenses. Optical image stabilization reduces or eliminates this blur. If you’re looking at a camera with a 5x zoom or higher, you’ll definitely want this feature.
Picture Taking Speed
When taking photos, there are two instances when things slow down—and frustration speeds up. One is from when you press the button to when the camera takes the picture--called lag time. And the second is the time it takes a camera to take the next shot. If you have kids, a slow camera will guarantee missed shots (See 6 Ways to Speed up a Slow Camera). Annoyingly, manufacturers don’t mention these speeds in their specifications, and these speeds can vary significantly from model to model, even from the same manufacturer. The best indicator is the camera’s “Burst Mode” or “Continuous Shooting.” This will tell you how many frames it can take per second, without flash. The more frames, the faster the camera. If possible, try the camera out in the store before buying to ensure its speed is up to your expectations.
Taking Good Videos
An increasing number of digital cameras can also take movies. The quality is not as good as a standalone camcorder, but still surprisingly good. Look for a camera that can capture video with at least a 640 by 480 frame at 30 frames per second (fps), the same as standard definition TV. Anything less will look too blocky. Better yet, some models are starting to offer high definition (HD) Video. It won’t be the same quality as an HD camcorder, but it’s a great way to capture the occasional memory for posterity. (And make sure you follow our 10 Ways to Improve Your Home Movies.)
Optional Features
Face detection: If you’ve ever taken a photo with the background in beautiful focus and your husband’s face an unrecognizable blur, you’ll understand why you need face detection. Cameras with this option are smart enough to recognize faces and focus on them, instead of on other objects in the frame. Some do this automatically, others have special modes. In a higher-end model, you can even select your subject or differentiate between kids and adults.
Smile detection: A camera with smile detection finds a face, and only takes the photo if the person is smiling. The first cameras with this feature arrived in 2008 and the technology still needs some improvement.
Wi-Fi wireless image transfer: Cameras with built-in Wi-Fi can automatically download your photos to your computer or upload them to the Web when you’re traveling. It's a convenient feature for travelers.
GPS: When a GPS receiver is built into your digital camera, the coordinates of where you are is saved with each picture. Not exactly a necessity, but can be fun for your vacation images. Some photo sharing Web sites, such as Flickr, let you view your photos as icons attached to a map. It's a nice feature, but not essential.
HD Output: Every camera lets you view your images on your TV. But only some have the output jack (HDMI) that enables you to take advantage of an HDTV’s full resolution. If you plan on viewing your images regularly on your HDTV, this feature should be on your checklist.
Touchscreen: Some digital cameras with extra-large displays let you navigate menus with a touchscreen instead of buttons. A touchscreen is not an essential feature, but it’s fun and simple to use.
Our Picks: Point-and-shoot Cameras
Entry Level: Under $200
Today’s entry-level digital cameras have all the basics you’ll need for taking great pictures. What you’re giving up are manual controls and the ability to take high-quality video. While the features you'll find in entry level cameras will be very similar, quality varies. Our picks have been highly rated by both consumers and professionals.
Canon PowerShot A480 IS ($105) A basic camera with good image quality and not too many buttons, the 10MP A480 has a 3.3x optical zoom lens and a 2.5-inch display. Runs on AA batteries.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Nikon CoolPix L20 ($130) This highly styled 10MP camera has a large 3-inch display and runs on AA batteries.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Panasonic Lumix FS7 ($160) A wide-angle, 4x optical lens with optical image stabilization and an intelligent auto mode, which evaluates the situation to determine what scene mode to apply, make this 10.1MP camera stand out.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Mid-range: $200 - $350
When you step up to the mid-range, you can expect a bigger display on the back of the camera and lenses that are wide-angle and have a longer zoom. You’ll also find ruggedized and waterproof models.
Canon PowerShot SX120 ($230) A 10MP camera with a 10x optically image stabilized zoom and a Smart AUTO mode, which senses the shooting conditions and modifies the settings accordingly. Plus it can run on AA batteries.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Olympus Stylus TOUGH 6000 ($280) Waterproof to 10 feet, shockproof to 5 feet, and cold resistant to 14 degrees F, you can take this 10.1MP camera just about anywhere. It also lets you tap on the side to change shooting modes.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Samsung DualView TL220 ($264) This 12.2MP camera has a second front-facing LCD display for framing yourself in the shot or getting the attention of your subjects (see Two Camera Displays are Better than One).
Buy Now at Amazon.com
High End: $350 plus
As you’d expect, the best point-and-shoot cameras come with the most resolution, the largest displays on the back and the longest zoom lenses. But what makes these cameras stand out is their fast shooting speeds and smart shooting modes. It’s all about quality, so you may end up lugging around a larger camera.
Casio Exilim EX-FH20 ($500) You’ll never miss a moment with this 9MP camera. It captures 40 frames per second in 7MP resolution. Other features include a wide-angle, 20x optical zoom and the ability to take high-definition movies.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Olympus SP-590UZ ($400) This 12MP camera packs an impressive 26x wide-angle optical zoom in its fairly compact body. It also has a “pre-capture” mode that stores the 10 frames (at 3MP) before you take a picture, so you don't miss an action shot, and a 3MP high-speed shooting mode at 10 frames per second.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Panasonic Lumix TS1 ($380) In addition to a wide-angle, 4.6x optical zoom lens for excellent pictures, this 12.1MP camera takes great high-definition video and is waterproof to 3 meters.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Our Picks: Digital SLRs
Entry Level: Under $800
You don’t have to be an experienced photographer to use a digital SLR. Auto mode takes care of the controls and large high-resolution sensors and high-quality kit lens (the one that comes with the camera) take care of the rest. And all of our picks also include optical image stabilization either built into the body or kit lens.
Canon EOS Rebel XS ($600) This 10.1MP camera incorporates advanced shooting modes, such as “Auto Lighting Optimizer,” a 3 frame-per-second burst shooting mode, and a 2.5-inch display that doubles as a viewfinder. Kit includes EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Pentax K2000 ($600) Slim and light for a digital SLR, this 10.2 MP camera is a great starter camera. It comes with a lens and flash, plus a dedicated help button, which puts the manual at your fingertips. Kit includes 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DA L lens and AF200FG external flash.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Sony Alpha A330 ($600) A great step up into the digital SLR category, this 10.2MP camera has 2.7-inch display that doubles as a viewfinder, a 3 frame-per-second burst shooting mode, and built-in help. Kit includes 18-55mm lens.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Mid-range: $800 - $1,500
Unless you’re a professional photographer, you’ll find everything you need in the mid-range of digital SLRs. There’s more manual control, more sophisticated automated picture modes and image processing, and the ability to record high-definition movies.
Canon EOS Rebel T1i ($900) With convenience features such as a 3-inch display that doubles as a viewfinder, advanced lighting compensation modes, and high-definition video capture, this 15.1 MP camera has it all. Kit includes Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Nikon D90 ($1,299) This 12.3MP camera is jam packed with features, including a 4.5-frame-per-second burst mode, a 3-inch display that doubles as a viewfinder, and face detection. The feature that really makes it stand out, though, is its ability to capture high-definition video. Kit includes Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR DX lens.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 ($900) This 12.1MP camera is much smaller than your average digital SLR, yet still packs excellent picture quality and a built-in flash. It also takes HD video (at 720p) in AVCHD format. Kit includes a 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 lens.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Shop by Profile
Mom
Life as a mother is a series of fleeting moments. So you’ll need a camera that can keep up. Look for cameras with a high frame rate, or burst mode, HD video capture, face detection, and great low-light capture (high ISO).
Panasonic Lumix ZS3 ($400) This tiny 10.1MP camera packs in an ultra-wide-angle lens and 12x optical zoom, as well as the ability to take high-definition movies and a dedicated movie recording button.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Casio Exilim EX-FC100 ($350) With a full-resolution capture rate of 30 frames per second, you can literally stop the action with this 9.1MP camera. It also captures video at 1,000 frames per second (regular video is 30), enabling the camera to capture action that’s too fast for the eye to see.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX1 ($390) This 10.2MP camera's sensor is especially tuned for low light situations (perfect for the birthday cake shot). It also take HD movies (720p) and has a 3-inch touchscreen.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Outdoor Enthusiast
Water, dust and gravity are enemies of digital cameras. So look for the terms “weatherproof,” “waterproof,” and “shock resistant.” You’ll also want a camera that can be easily operated on the go.
Canon PowerShot D10 ($330) This 12.1MP with 3x optical zoom camera is built tough: waterproof to 33 feet, shock proof to 4 feet, and able to withstand temperatures from 14-104 degrees F.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Olympus Stylus TOUGH-8000 ($300) Waterproof to 33 feet, shockproof to 6.6 feet, and crushproof to 220 pounds, you can take this 12MP camera just about anywhere. It also lets you tap on the side to change shooting modes.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Panasonic Lumix TS1 ($380) In addition to a wide-angle, 4.6x optical zoom lens for excellent pictures, this 12.1MP camera takes great high-definition video and is waterproof to 3 meters.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Fashion/Style conscious
Ruggedized, long zoom lenses, high resolution: you can have it all plus fashion-friendly colors and a sleek design. Remember to add the ability to easily share your photos to your check list.
Fujifilm FinePix Z33 ($200) One of the smallest waterproof (to 10 feet) and dustproof cameras, this 10MP super-slim model includes a 3x optical zoom and on-board slideshow creation (with music) for sharing. It comes in black, blue, pink, and green.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Nikon Coolpix S710 ($300) A 3.6x wide-angle optical zoom, 3-inch display, and aluminum housing lay the framework for this 14.5MP camera’s good looks. Comes in red, black, and silver.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
World Traveler
When you’re on the trip of a lifetime, the last thing you want is to miss a shot. Look for cameras with a 5x or higher, image-stabilized optical zoom lens and the ability to take AA batteries.
Canon PowerShot SX120 ($230) A 10MP camera with a 10x optically image stabilized zoom and a Smart AUTO mode, which senses the shooting conditions and modifies the settings accordingly. Plus it can run on AA batteries.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Olympus SP-590UZ ($400) This 12MP camera packs an impressive 26x wide-angle optical zoom in its fairly compact body. It also has a “pre-capture” mode that stores the 10 frames (at 3MP) before you take a picture, so you don't miss an action shot, and a 3MP high-speed shooting mode at 10 frames per second.
Buy Now at Amazon.com
Comments