How To Choose A Digital Camera - A Basic Guide

You're probably going to use your zoom a lot, making it another important factor to consider when choosing a digital camera. In general, more is better, but be sure you're comparing the optical zoom between cameras, not the digital zoom. Digital zoom only makes objects appear closer by cropping off the edges of the photo and expanding the image, resulting in lower resolution.

Next, consider the camera's size. What do you plan on using it for? If you're planning on using it for more formal portraits or high-resolution, big zoom shots, then you may want a full-on digital SLR (single lens reflex) camera similar to those used by professional photographers. Though they're expensive, retailing around $1000, they take the best photos of any digital camera. However, they're bulky and heavy, and awkward if you want to carry them around in your purse or backpack. If you'll be using your camera for party or social photos, carrying it around with you often, then an ultra light camera may be best. Though the resolution and zoom won't be as good as standard compact digitals, you'll be able to take your camera anywhere.

Finally, consider any other options you may want like a large screen, interchangeable lenses, or manual photo controls. There are lots of different digital cameras to choose from, so you should be able to find something that will fit your needs perfectly. Granted, there are lots of factors to consider when deciding how to choose a digital camera, but resolution, zoom, size of the camera, and the size of your budget, are by far the most important.