Digital camera buying tips

Digital cameras can cost anywhere from $50 to $5,000, and have more specs and options to wade through than a Toyota Prius. Individual reviews will help you decide which cameras work best, but if you’re wondering where to start, read these key buying tips to zero in on the camera that’s best for you.

Step 1: Take a smartphone or a smart friend.

If you have a phone with web access, bring it with you when you walk up to the camera bar at the local retailer. If you can't get some of the vital information about the camera you are looking at from the display or sales people, then we assure you it is available on the 'net and can be found in minutes. Also, you might end up finding a better deal on the same model elsewhere, which can be a valuable bargaining tool.

Step 2: Pick your camera type

Although there are zillions of cameras, they can be divided into two basic types: those with built-in lenses and those that use interchangeable lenses. The vast majority of digicams have set lenses with specific zoom power and focal ranges. For example, a basic model might have a 4x (4 power) lens with a range of 35-120mm. This will handle everything from quick candids of partying friends to the ability to zoom in faraway subjects. You have choices of everything from 3x to 36x.

With interchangeable lens cameras, you can change the focal length and range by purchasing optional lenses (often simply called glass). Called DSLRs (digital single lens reflex) or compact interchangeable lens cameras, they are typically sold as “kits” including a basic 3x zoom with 35mm equivalent of 27-82.5mm. Realize this is just a starting point, as you can quickly spend a small fortune for favorite lenses. Image quality for this type of camera is far, far superior to a basic point-and-shoot, but you’ll pay for the privilege in more ways than one.

Now let’s dig a little deeper into the differences between so-so cameras and the really good.

Pixels are important

The first spec you’ll see for any camera is the megapixels. Point-and-shoot digicams range from 10 megapixels to 16 megapixels, while interchangeable lens models offer 10 megapixels to 24 megapixels. (There are rumors a 36-megapixel DSLR will arrive soon.) One would think you just pick the camera with the most megapixels within your budget and that’s the end of the story — not so. The size of the pixels is even more important.

Bigger pixels are critical

The size of the imaging sensor (where the pixels reside) is a critical spec. Most digicams have sensors that are 1/2.3-inches, so manufacturers have to cram all those pixels onto small pieces of silicon. This leads to photos with lots of digital noise (speckles), especially in low light. For less noise and more accurate color quality, better cameras use larger imaging devices referred to as Micro Four Thirds and APS-C size; they are typically found in compact interchangeable lens cameras and DSLRs. This size difference is the reason photos taken by a 12-megapixel DSLR look far better than photos from a 12-megapixel point-and-shoot. Granted you’ll have to spend more, but if you’re looking for quality, it’s the best way to go. Some cameras geared for pros even have “full frame” sensors that are the same size as a frame of 35mm film. Quality is outstanding, but the price of entry is a least $2,000.

Your window on the world

It’s important to have a clear view of your subject so it’s framed properly before you snap the shutter. Enter the LCD screen found on every camera -- from the most humble aim-and-forget to priciest DSLR. Also measured in pixels, look for the highest spec and largest size you can find. Inexpensive cameras are rated 115,000 pixels (115K), but typically you’ll see 230K and more. A few cameras offer 2.5-inch (measured diagonally) displays, but most span 2.7 inches. We prefer larger sizes (3 inches or more) and 461K pixels. Anti-reflective coatings and accurate colors are key, so definitely do an eyes-on test at the store. Some models let you adjust the angle of the screen to shoot overhead or a waist angle. Again, it’s a nice added feature but not absolutely critical.

Ergonomics are important

While you’re checking out the screen, make sure the camera feels good in your hands and the controls seem logically placed. While we’re all in favor of slim smartphone-sized cameras, they could be too small for some.

Movie making

All cameras capture video clips, typically ranging from 720p to 1080p (full HD). If movies are in your imaging future (and why shouldn’t they be?) we suggest you get the highest quality available, as you can always step it down if need be. The best is 1080p at 60 frames per second, but we’ve been impressed by the same resolution at 24 frames per second, too. Aim high, and if you want to export the good stuff to your Apple devices, look for iFrame capability. Also better cameras let you use the optical zoom and capture stereo sound while you’re playing Zach Snyder.

Photographic options

Most people really don't care how their cameras actually work — they just want good pictures. Digicam manufacturers know this well, and all digital cameras offer point-and-shoot operation, usually labeled "Auto." All you do is set your camera to "Auto," frame your subject, and the camera makes all the adjustments for focus, aperture opening, shutter speed and white balance. It's as simple as that. You don't really need to know how your camera works, but it's important to have a cursory knowledge so you can make the most of your purchase.

Autofocus means exactly what it states: the camera focuses on the subject in the center of the frame. With a digicam, you simply press the shutter down half way; the camera locks on the subject and makes all the other necessary computations for a well-exposed picture. Click the shutter all the way down and it's saved to memory. Better digital cameras offer multi-point auto focus (AF) for more accurate results. You'll see figures like three-, five- or 11-point AF, depending on the model. No matter which you choose, it's a good feature to look for. Also more expensive cameras let you move the focusing spot off center; this is an excellent tool for more adventurous photographers.

The size of your lens opening is called the aperture, and it's measured in f/stops, such as f/2.8, f/4 and so on. The higher the number, the smaller the opening, so if you're taking a shot in bright sunshine, the lens will "close down" so the image isn't overexposed. Conversely, if you're shooting in dim light, the aperture will "open up" to let in more light. By adjusting the aperture, you can also change the "depth of field," the area that's in sharp focus. The higher the number, the more of the photo is in focus. When you're comparing models, look for the lowest f/stop in your price range. Although optional lenses for D-SLRs go all the way to f/1.4, f/1.8 is the best for a point-and-shoot cam, with some also available at f/2.0.

Shutter speed refers to the amount of time light hits the imaging device. Camera makers will give you a range of speeds for each individual model. If you plan on shooting action sports, you'll need a faster speed, typically stated as 1/2000th of a second, 1/4000th and so on. The opposite of this is a long shutter speed, used for taking shots at night. Here, the shutter may stay open for 30 seconds or more. When you're shopping, look for the widest range.

White balance settings help you deal with different light sources such as sunshine or fluorescent bulbs. We've all taken shots with film cameras only to discover a ghoulish green color. Auto white balance handles this, or you can do it manually. Good digicams offer specific settings for sunny, cloudy, tungsten bulbs and several types of fluorescent lights as well as custom.

Another important camera adjustment is the ISO setting, which is similar to the ASA or sensitivity rating of film. Typically left in Auto mode, you can adjust to different lighting conditions for more accurate results. The lowest setting is used when you want the finest color and have a lot of light. You can raise the ISO to capture subjects in dim scenes without a flash. Again, look for the widest range. As you turn up the ISO, digital noise appears, adding artifacts to your photos. Unfortunately, there's not much you can do about this unless you have expensive photo editing software, but manufacturers are adding noise reduction settings to cut this down. ISO 400 setting is about as high as you should go with a point-and-shoot camera. D-SLRs, with their larger sensors, can go much higher. The same holds true for the new compact interchangeable lens cameras.

Of course, we can go on about camera capability but these basics will get you well on your way. Have fun and make sure you carry your camera with you at all times — no matter what the megapixel count or price.