There are many new cameras out there, and they can be confusing when trying to decide which one is the best to buy. The following tips will help you get the best deal when choosing a digital camera.
Steps
Step 1. Set a basic budget for how much money you want to spend
Be realistic about the fact that you won't be able to get the best out of every feature, you'll have to make some compromises.
Step 2. Determine your experience level
Are you a novice or an expert when it comes to digital photography? If you are a novice, a "point and shoot" might suffice. An expert will want more manual control of the exposure process.
Step 3. Consider what the subject of your photographs will be
For kids and nature, get a camera that acts fast after you click the shutter button.
Step 4. Decide if you want to take video with the camera
If you want HD capabilities, look for a video resolution of 1080 pixels. If you want to capture professional or near-professional sound, look for a camera with microphone input.
Step 5. Check the reviews on the web
In English, the choice is vast: https://www.dpreview.com, https://www.imaging-resource.com, and https://www.steves-digicams.com are the main sites for serious photographers, while https://www.cnet.com has good reviews for more casual users. When you're trying to decide between two options, or just want to explore similar cameras, look for information online.
Step 6. Make a list of which features are important to you and prioritize them
Keep in mind that there are trade-offs, for example, between size and optical zoom. You probably won't get everything you want.
Step 7. Consider which type of batteries might be most useful to you
The main options are AA batteries and rechargeable lithium batteries. Lithium batteries can be lighter and last longer, but when they wear out it may be difficult to purchase replacement batteries. If your camera uses AA batteries, it can usually use rechargeable AA batteries as well - these are not from a specific manufacturer and can be replaced when needed.
Step 8. Try not to conclude with a camera that is a total compromise
Decide what's important and get something that's the best in that field, rather than a mediocre appliance in every field.
Step 9. Remember that megapixels are not the same as good photographs
There are many other things, including the lens, that determine the quality of the image. 3 megapixels should be the minimum you should be looking at. A 3 megapixel camera will give you excellent 4x6 prints, if you want something bigger consider a 4 or 5 megapixel camera - or more if the budget allows. Talk to a professional at a photo shop to get more information on what the camera will need to have to make a quality image in a print of your preferred size.
Step 10. Narrow down your search to one or two models and shop around for the best price
Price comparison sites can be useful, but merchants offering the best price often have terrible service.
Step 11. Make sure the camera has a warranty that you are comfortable with
Most cameras come with a one-year limited warranty, but extended warranties are usually available.
Step 12. Buy the camera
If you have time to wait or don't need your camera right away, we recommend using price comparison sites like PriceComparison.it. You will save time and money by finding the lowest price. Consider purchasing at a local camera shop. You will pay about the same price you will find on the internet, there will be one person behind the counter who knows more about cameras than you can find on the internet, and you will have a place to easily return the camera in case there is a long malfunction. the street. And economically speaking, you will support your city, create jobs and keep the circulation of money local.
Advice
- It's easy to over-emphasize the optical zoom in your purchase. Yes, zooming is a nice thing - but 90% of the time you will be within walking distance of subjects. An optical zoom can add a lot of cost and weight to the camera.
- Check the prices of accessories and get an idea of what you need. Most cameras will come with a memory card to start (or internal memory) which will hold approximately 15 photos, so additional memory is needed. Some cameras don't come with a memory card or batteries to get you started. It's better to check rather than accidentally go over budget because you didn't know it needed batteries or a memory card.
- For many casual photographers, a very small camera is fine because it's pocket-sized, so you're more likely to have it with you when something interesting happens. On the other hand, a larger camera may have reasons to be bulkier (a large lens collects more light, which allows you to take good low-light photos without using the flash).
- Beware of digital zooms. On cameras with few megapixels you will notice a loss of quality in the shots. With cameras of 6 MP and up, the loss will be much less noticeable. The same result can also be achieved with editing software, on the computer, after taking the photograph.
- You can also see this site in English: www.myproductadvisor.com and go to the cameras section (“camera”); the computer will ask you questions about what you want your camera to look like.
- Ask friends and family about their digital camera choices.
Warnings
- Beware of pocket cameras, when they are only 1 or 2 cm wide. While they may be convenient, to make the lens fit the camera, it is made very small. The result will be that the photos will be slightly warped on the edges.
- Beware of colorful or pretty cameras that don't actually work well.
- Watch out for camera dealers in big cities. These often sell gray market goods, which means they don't have an Italian guarantee. Sometimes they'll quote you 30% less than anyone else, but "just for you", and then offer to sell you the software, cables and battery for another $ 100. While there are some large chains that are exceptions, it's usually best to assume these traders are shady.
