Use Camera Reviews to De-Mystify the Choices
Choosing a camera can be frustrating with all the choices available. Camera reviews
clear up this confusion by comparing
camera features and options, then rating how each camera compares with similar
models.
Most cameras on the market today are digital. While this article discusses
several digital camera concerns, much of the information also applies to
traditional film cameras.
Start With the Basics
To effectively compare cameras we need to know two things: 1) the
camera's specs and features, and 2) performance ratings. Spec sheets and ratings
are plentiful, but to efficiently compare cameras it's important to set
some guidelines.
Decide on how the camera will be used, the quality and size of final prints,
and necessary features. Write these down and rank camera reviews and ratings
against these standards. Whether looking for a professional or snapshot camera,
scan the reviews and narrow your choices down to a few cameras before making
final comparisons.
OK, Lets Cut to the Chase...
Re-visit the reviews for this short list and evaluate the camera
ratings in more depth for the following criteria:
Design, Construction and Controls
Minor design differences can become significant in daily camera use.
Carefully compare how each camera's review is rated for design elements. Size
and weight, body configuration, plus location of buttons, knobs and other
controls can make a camera a joy to use or a real pain in the neck.
Evaluate how well the camera is put together. Are access doors for battery,
memory, etc. solid and stable? What does the reviewer say about the shutter
release, zoom and other buttons and knobs? How many photos will a fully charged
battery take? Is the LCD bright and clear in both low light and sunny
conditions?
The reviewer's evaluation of the camera's controls is critical. Can manual
adjustments be made for different lighting conditions? How about auto-focus
zones and exposure modes? Are controls simple and intuitive, or complicated
menus?
Printing pictures on today's high resolution
photo printers is quicker and easier
with PictBridge compliant digital cameras because there's no need to download
the photo files to a computer.
Sensors, Pixels and Processors
These are the heart of
digital cameras and determine photo quality, so
closely compare how the reviewer rates them.
Generally larger sensors have more powerful and efficient photodiodes, and
will produce higher quality photo images. Both CCD and CMOS sensor technology is
advancing rapidly, but with each new development there are usually draw-backs,
so compare carefully.
Digital camera marketing would have us believe it's all about megapixels. But it's more complicated than that. Evaluate how each camera's
review rates pixel quality, not just quantity. Some cameras will take
better pictures with fewer pixels.
What the camera's processor does with the data collected from the sensor's
diodes is equally important. It must properly interpret color balance and
interpolate pixels for sharp natural looking pictures. It must be able to do it
quickly or you'll have to wait too long between shots.
Lens Optics
In many ways lenses for digital cameras are simpler and less expensive than
for conventional 35mm cameras. Even so, sensors and processors can't produce a
better photo than what's visible through the lens. Compare the ratings
because cheap lenses can distort images and colors.
In conclusion, decide on camera basics and budget range, scan enough
reviews to pick a handful of finalists, then scrutinize the reviews and ratings
on those cameras to find the perfect choice.
Top rated cameras are listed at
Digital
Cameras Ratings.
Also see
Digital Camera Comparisons
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