Buying a Digital Camera

If you are not sure what camera is right for you then this page runs through the different types of camera available. It also recommends some cameras I have been impressed with while carrying out my reviews.

Entry Level Digital Cameras - Simple and Easy

These are the cheapest digital cameras and also the most easy to use. They tend to lack the build quality of more expensive models. Many entry level cameras also offer lower picture quality, increased delay times between pressing the shutter button and the picture being taken and they will also lack some of the latest features such as High Definition movies. The upside is if you select the right camera you should be able to take perfectly acceptable snapshots.

Pocket Sized Digital Cameras

This is the most popular type of digital camera. They have metal bodies and a touch of style. When it comes to features and ease of use most pocket cameras are straightforward, point and shoot cameras.

Stylish Digital Cameras

Cameras in this category share a number of similarities to pocket cameras. The difference is they tend to be slightly larger in size and may struggle to fit into a pocket. In my tests I have also found that the picture quality offered by this type of camera has a slight edge over a pocket sized camera.

Super Zoom Cameras

These are much larger cameras. They come with extra long zooms with some models offering well over 20x zoom. There are plenty of features to get your teeth into and are suitable for serious photographers. These cameras will be of interest to sports and wildlife photographers.

Extra Zoom Digital Cameras

With the increase in zoom power offered by the super zoom models a gap in the market appeared. This has been filled by cameras offering around 10x to 12x zoom and much smaller body sizes than the super zoom cameras. These models are mainly aimed at someone who is not too serious about photography, but would like the extra scope offered by the increased zoom.

Waterproof / Tough Digital Cameras

These cameras can be immersed in water and also take a few knocks. For example most cameras can be dropped from a height of 1.5m and carry on working. They can be a good choice for a family.

Advanced Digital Cameras

These cameras offer the widest range of features available without stepping up to a Digital SLR. They are often used as a second camera by professional photographers. Canon has recently introduced the Powershot G11. I have not had time to review the G11 yet and you may wish to consider this model in addition to my recommendations.

Compact System Cameras

Compact System Cameras are a cross between a typical compact camera and a Digital SLR. They offer you excellent picture quality, a wide array features and are a small size. This article tells you more about what they offer and what to consider when buying.em Cameras are a cross between a typical compact camera and a Digital SLR. They offer you excellent picture quality, a wide array features and are a small size.

Digital SLRs

For the more serious photographer there are Digital SLRs. You can change the lenses on this type of camera giving you extra flexibility when shooting. This type of camera has plenty of features too. My recommendations are both entry level models and as you can see they can be bought with a lens to get you started.