1. How to Buy a Digital Camera  Identify Purpose  Create a Budget  Prioritize Features  Compare Brands

2. Identify Purpose Replacing “still” camera – High Quality Printing Resolution becomes important. Posting Images for the Web/E.Mail Need minimal Resolution Need Motion /Sound Maybe consider DV camera

3. Create a Budget The camera is just part of the package What about a camera bag? Will you need additional storage media? AC Charger and batteries (how many?, specialized type, ) Interface to computer (card reader) Some offer additional lenses. Other Photo Editing Software OH NO - Not a Printer too!

4. Prioritize Features Resolution Lens Storage Media Type Menus- Functionality / Manual Settings Flash issues Battery type/life Viewfinder Quality of Instructions / Support Term

5. Features- Resolution What is this megapixel thing? W x H (examples-1024 x 768 =.8meg 2048 x 1536 = 3.1meg) 1.3Meg recommended for Printing 5”x7” Compression and Storage Card Size Most popular today is Compact Flash, some use Floppy discs, Smart Cards, avoid Proprietary Typical Computer today is 1024 x 768 unless you are making large prints that is adequate.

6. Compare Brands Resources: http://www.pcphotoreview.com/ http://www.digicamera.com/ http://www.dcresource.com/