Hints on selecting a digital camera
Choose a camera of appropriate size and weight – too small and light can be just as problematic as too big and heavy. No good fitting a shirt pocket if the controls are too cramped to operate and symbols too small to understand.
Simplicity – enables the user to get on with taking pictures. Just Auto and Program settings cover 99% of general use. No good having numerous features if you have to keep looking at the instructions to remind you how to use them.
Proper viewfinder – preferably optical with eyesight adjuster. Many small cameras have only the rear screen for view finding. By forcing you to hold the camera at arms length it can cause camera shake. However, many viewfinders are hopelessly inaccurate. Some make no provision for close-up shots (parallax adjustment) and result in photos with heads cut off. Others show a narrower view than will be taken by the camera so that the resulting photo shows unwanted material around the subject
A decent size rear screen allows better after-shot assessment. A fold-out rear screen is invaluable for high or low shots. Like the old box cameras, it allows waist- level shooting - ideal for grandchild photography.
Shutter lag (the time between you pressing the shutter release and the photo being taken) should be as short as possible. Excessive lag is a major cause of missed photo opportunities with digital cameras. A lag time of no more than 0.4 seconds is essential – the shorter time the better. Check the camera spec for this figure.
Stick to established camera or electronics manufacturers. New names that are very cheap might be good, but let someone else take the risk until the name is established.
Do not buy a digital camera as an investment. Depreciation is savage, especially on compacts, as replacement models are launched every few weeks.
Many digital cameras have only basic ‘set up and go’ printed instructions. You may need a computer with Adobe reader or similar software to see the complete instructions and specification
Look in the ‘Buyers’ Guide’ pages of photo magazines, or at the numerous web sites devoted to the subject, to see the advantages and disadvantages encountered with the camera model you are considering.
Consider the use to which you will put your digital camera and set an affordable budget. This will simplify the list of models from which to make your choice.
Consider non-current models. ‘Must have’ cameras of six months ago have prices slashed to clear the way for replacements models. Many traders, including Canon’s own ‘Canon Outlet’ sell ‘A’ grade, demo stock, or returns via their e-bay shops at good savings. Goods have normally been checked, repaired and re-issued - often with full guarantee; or are just stock in damaged boxes with a lead or accessory missing.
Don Louth April 2007