I have a good camera on my phone - why would I need a digital camera?

Smartphone photographs can be amazing but they aren't as versatile as compact digital cameras. Camera phones are fine for photographing static subjects in good light but dedicated cameras are still superior with moving subjects and in low or difficult lighting. Their larger sensors ensure that image quality is better in all kinds of light, the battery life is usually better, the flash more powerful and the lenses generally offer at least 10x zoom, none of which phones can compete with. The key advantage for a compact camera is the true optical zoom lens capability. Some cameras reach staggering magnification factors perfect for bringing the unreachable closer without digital enhancement. If you take your photography more seriously and want to experiment with shutter and aperture and develop your photography skills, it is worth buying a compact digital camera, particularly with manual control and a versatile lens.

I've been told to upgrade my digital camera to the latest firmware - why?

Inside most digital cameras is a microprocessor (small computer), that uses software stored on non-removable flash memory inside your camera. This is called firmware and is the operating system of your camera which allows you to control the features and functions, with the camera's menus and buttons. Firmware also controls autofocus, exposure, image processing, noise reduction and other important functions within your camera. Without firmware your camera would not be able to operate. The firmware is loaded when the camera is made, but after it has been released for sale, bugs or problems with the camera may be found. These problems are investigated and the offending firmware is fixed. Some of these fixes may be minor, but some can be more serious issues that affect the correct workings of the camera. This firmware version information is found within one of your camera's menu options, but where you find it depends on the make and model. Then check the manufacturer's support and downloads section of their website for your brand and model of camera to find out the latest version. The manufacturer will also document how to go about upgrading the firmware, but we would not recommend doing the upgrade yourself unless you are very confident and fully understand the process before you start. Failure to follow the process or problems during the upgrade could make your camera unusable. Instead, we suggest that you send the camera to your local support centre to have the upgrade performed there. It should also be noted that some cameras with built-in WiFi will automatically check for upgrades, and if you accept, will perform them automatically.