Choosing the right digital camera for you with Pharmacy Express

There's a bewildering array of top quality digital cameras, camcorders and accessories available on the market place. While Canon and Nikon dominate the market, there is no "best" single brand available. It comes down to best fit for you and what you are looking to achieve with your photography.

Whilst the jargon and terminology can be confusing you need to know a few basics. Firstly, don't get caught up in the marketing hype around megapixels! More megapixels does not mean better quality. Factors like the quality of the lens and and processor will affect quality far more than the number of megapixels available. Essentially megapixels dictate the size with which you can enlarge your photos. An 8 megapixel camera will theoretically allow you to enlarge (at 300dpi) to 13"x8", a 10MP camera to 13"x8.5', a 12MP camera to 14.5"x9.5", and so on.

However this is but part of the equation. Whilst 300dpi in commercial print standard, useful images can easily be displayed down to 72dpi assuming the original image is "tack" sharp. To give an example, if you were to print a 12MP image at 150dpi you could get an image up to 29"x19"!

So size matters, what else? The camera you chose has to fit what you want it to do. Enlargements are only one (small) part of the equation! If easy portability is important then consider choosing a camera that will fit in your pocket or purse. A compact fits this requirement nicely and works well for anyone looking to just point and shot to grab the moment. Digital photography has opened up access to instant gratification for a whole world of consumers who might have previously hesitated about investing in a film camera.

Is durability and getting a tough camera important because you have a habit of dropping things? Or, do you want to spend time in the pool or at the beach but not leave your camera behind? There are now many options for waterproof and shock resistant compact cameras that may be just what you need! They're certainly not indestructible, but will forgive the occasional drop or incursion into a puddle!

If you're looking to step-up from a compact to a dSLR there are now a number of intermediate options just below dSLR level which allow you to better explore creative options without the budgetary requirements of a full-blown dSLR. And, if entertainment is your thing, then there are now even compacts with built in projectors. and fantasitcally well sorted Shoot & Share camcorders like the Flip Mino

For more serious photographers looking to explore their creative skills, a dSLR is the way to go. But even here we have entry level models all the way up to top professional dSLR's, ranging from under $1,000 to nearly $20,000! What suits you will come down to what you are looking to do with photography and,of course, your budget. We would encourage people looking to move to dSLR's to allow room in their budget for a good quality lens as these make a huge difference to your images. Also, consider lighting with a range of speedlights and stabalising your camera with an appropriate tripod or monopod.

Most of all, have fun. There are a world of photographic opportunities out there from large scale vistas to the miniature world of macro photography.

One last thing... make sure you buy a reputable brand with full NZ manufacturer warranty. A parallel imported unit might seem to save you in the short run but if something goes wrong with your camera it may feel like a false economy in the long run!

Our prices include freight (for orders over $50) and we do not charge any credit card fees!

Use the web sites below to learn more about digital photography and help you choose which camera is most suitable for you, but remember - these are USA sites so the models available, prices,features and warranty may differ to those available in New Zealand ...

Beginners' Guides to Digital Photography:
	Kodak Digital Learning Center
	Digital Photography Reviewﾙ
	C|NET - Computer Net Group
Digital Camera Review Sites:
	Steves Digicam Reviews
	Megapixel.net
	Digital Photography Reviewﾙ
	C|NET Camera Reviews
	Imaging Resource.com
Glossary of Digital Camera Terms:
	Digital Photography Reviewﾙ