Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Buying a Point and Shoot Digital Camera

It’s that joyful time of year when family and friends get together and create memories that will last a lifetime. Every year you say you’re going to buy a digital camera so no moment goes uncaptured, not even Susie’s attempt to reveal Santa’s real identity. Buying a point and shoot digital camera can be a daunting task. Every year you walk away from the camera counter feeling confused, frustrated and unable to make a decision with all of the different options.


It’s time for you to have some fun this holiday season and have the pictures to show for it. Don’t be scared by Megapixels. It literally means one million pixels, and relates to the resolution of your image. Most digital cameras now have plenty of megapixels for the average home use. What you really want to focus on are price range and comfortability.


Price Range: Pick One

$100-$150

· 12.1 megapixel

· Small 4x zoom

· Basic video capture option (Maybe)

· Basic light and effect settings

· Will get the job done, but don’t expect it to last you for years.

· Great for kids and teens!

$150-$250

· 12.1-14.1 megapixel

· Zoom range between 4x-12x (Depending on camera)

· Standard video capabilities

· Stronger auto-focus system

· Potentially face recognition capabilities.

· Greater range of manual controls such as ISO and Exposure controls

· Great for the average family camera capturing vacations, holidays and everything in between.

$250-$500

· 12.1-14.1 megapixel camera

· Zoom range between 4x-12x (Depending on camera)

· HD video capabilities.

· Stronger auto-focus system

· Face recognition capabilities

· Greater range of manual controls such as ISO and Exposure controls

· Interchangeable lenses, purchased separately. (Depending on camera)

· Great for the amateur photographer who desires a higher quality image and greater access to camera controls.


Comfortability:

· Brands:

§ Canon and Nikon have been leading the digital imaging race for years.

§ Consistent quality year after year.

§ We stick with the brands we are comfortable with, Canon and Nikon.

· Physical Comfortability:

§ Pick up a couple of Canon and Nikon cameras within your price range.

§ Play with the settings, get a feel for the zoom, pay attention to button placement.

· Ask yourself:

§ “Which one feels more comfortable in my hand?”

§ “Are the buttons easy to access?”

§ “Are the camera controls user friendly?”


If you are buying as a gift, don’t forget to buy batteries, the right memory card (ask your customer service rep), and a case or bag for the camera. Feel confident in your purchase and get ready to practice your photography skills all throughout the holiday season. Don’t let a moment go uncaptured!


Happy Holidays from GMPdigital

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