Digital Camera Buying Guide 2009
With Christmas fast approaching then I thought I’d do a digital camera buying guide for those looking to purchase in the coming weeks.
I think it should be noted that there has never been a better time to purchase a digital camera. Digital photography is very popular at the moment and subsequently there is fierce competition between the major players.
For a prospective buyer it can be quite daunting to be confronted with all the technical jargon mentioned by digital camera manufacturers. However, I hope this guide can simplify things somewhat.
Digital Compact? Bridge Camera? Digital SLR?
When someone asks me which digital camera I’d recommend to them then the first question I ask is “what are you interested in taking photos of?” I’ve seen many people being put off using their camera as they’ve not had the correct advice at the time of purchase. So, here are your options.
GE E1250
Digital Compact Cameras
Digital compact cameras have come a long, long way. Since the resolution of cameras has stabilised around the 9-12 megapixel range, manufacturers are having to compete on other features to differentiate themselves from competitors.
One recent phenomenon has been the introduction of the Face Detection Mode pioneered by Fuji. Initially this only featured on high-end models (£200+), but now you can find Face Detection on models around £100. In this mode your camera will automatically detect faces in the scene and expose for skin tones rather than contrasty surroundings thus making your subject look more natural. For a more in-depth explanation then please visit here.
Another feature I’d look at is whether the camera has a lithium battery. A lithium battery means that you don’t have to keep purchasing batteries. Furthermore, as they’re thinner than consumer batteries (AA, AAA) then you’re camera will be neater. Unlike older generation of batteries, you can recharge the battery at any point without the need to discharge first.
Nikon P90
Bridge Cameras
As the name suggests, a bridge camera is a compromise between a Digital Compact and Digital SLR.
Advantages
Much longer optical zoom than a standard compact camera. Modern day bridge cameras offer as much as a 24x optical zoom.
Ability to preview/review images using either the LCD screen or electronic viewfinder
Negates the need to carry lots of lenses due to the large optical zoom
Has the apperance of a Digital SLR
Disadvantages
Lens is not removable so ensure the optical zoom range is sufficient for your needs.
Minimum aperture value won’t be as fast as prime, removable lenses. However, with the high ISOs on modern day cameras then coping with low light situations is easier to handle.
Like a Digital SLR, bridge cameras are physically bigger than digital compacts.
Tip: If you own a bridge camera, or are considering purchasing one, ensure you buy a UV filter to protect the lens elements from dust/scratches. It’s much cheaper replacing the filter than sending the camera to the manufacturer for a new lens!
Sony Alpha 380
Digital SLR Cameras
The recent surge in interest of digital photography has driven prices down significantly. A very capable Digital SLR is now the same price to what a top-end digital compact used to be. If you have an existing set of lenses for a particular type of camera then it would make sense to purchase a camera body that is compatible with your existing kit. However, if you are getting a digital SLR for the first time then you have a free choice.
I’d personally recommend the new cameras from Sony; for example the Sony Alpha 230, 380 and 500. Their bodies boast built-in anti-shake which means you don’t have to buy expensive image stabilised lenses which is the case with Nikon and Canon outfits.
Advantages
Full control over your photographs with manual exposure modes
Ability to change lenses means you can upgrade and specialise in a particular area of photography you’re interested in; for example, macro photography
Hot-shoe mount allows you to slide on a more powerful flashgun to the top of the camera. The built-in unit has a low guide number which limits its capabilities.
Host of compatible accessories
Disadvantages
Higher investment required
Bulkier
Standard kit lenses are usually around 18-55mm which means you’ll inevitably want to buy a second lens, so this should be budgeted for.
I’ll modify this guide as time goes on and I hope it can help you on your way to choosing a new digital camera.
-Ben