Choosing a suitable digital camera

Choosing a digital camera is no simple process, because there are so many to choose from, with all kinds of options, spread over a wide range of prices, so how do you choose?

The first question you have to ask yourself is "What do I want a camera for?" To take photos of course! Ah, but what sort of photos? Many people just want to take 'selfies' or 'snapshots'. These are captured quickly usually without much preparation or planning and have personal value - they may not have much interest to people outside of your family and friends. Here we are talking about birthday parties, family gatherings, sports matches, tourist attractions, etc. These are often referred to as 'amateur' photos.

On the other hand you might want to take more serious photographs, the sort that you want others to see and appreciate, but don't want a big fancy camera. This is where the point and shoot cameras, often with zoom lenses, flash and a few added extras can make all the difference. These are great for travellers, where bulk and weight can be a disadvantage.

Finally, there are those who want to take really serious photos, the sort that you might want to publish or enter into a photographic competition. This is where Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR) and Mirrorless cameras with interchangeable high quality lenses, fast shutter speeds and most importantly, aperture control, are out on their own. Composing the perfect photo is still up to the individual, but at least you have the tools to capture your ideas.

If you simply want to take selfies and quick snapshots, then do you actually need a digital camera? Most people own a smartphone, and they come with quite reasonable cameras already built-in, and after you have taken your shot, you can email it to the world.