Last few weeks saw advertisements from all the DIGICAM manufacturers. Film cameras are on their way out because of developing printing and storing the pictures which tend to fade with time, hence even the expensive SLR’s bought for a princely sum are gathering dust with no takers.
Digital cameras are having few distinct advantages over film cameras:
1. Size - These are very light to carry most of these weighing about 100-200 grams
2. Cost - Cameras with modes features are available for 4500 onwards with no recurring costs
3. Prints - You may get only the prints you require else these can be stored in CD, Pen Drive
4. Views - The photographs can be viewed on your TV directly from the camera using AV cable
Now the points to decide which camera is good for you.
1. Resolution- Most of the cameras except those which come with phone are above 5 mega pixels
Unless you are planning commercial use all cameras of 7 mega pixels are fine
2. Zoom - These cameras have short focal length lens and optical zoom of 3 is needed.
Do not go for optical zoom of more than 4 unless you use a tripod for good pics.
This may cause your photo’s to blur. Do not give importance to Digital Zoom.
3. Batteries - These cameras work on pencil cells and lithium ion batteries. Cameras using
pencil cells are bigger in size. You may use rechargable cells but in emergency
even normal cells can serve your purpose.
- Memory: Since images are stored in digital format extra memory is required in the form on cards which are available in 512 mb, 1 GB and more. 1 GB can store 1000 images which is enough whereafter these can be transferred to CD or Hard Disk
5. Cost: Cameras are available with bill and warranty for 5000 and more from Kodak, Canon
Nikon, Sony, Olympus which are reputed brands and carry company warranty.
I suggest you decide on a camera of 7.1 mega pixel to 8 mega pixels with optical zoom of 3X to 4X from a known brand with bill within a range of 5500 to 9000 which includes cost of batteries charger memory card and carrying pouch. Better still go to a store which has more than one brand to help you decide on looks and features.
Wish you a good buy and happy clicking.