Not long ago, you had to be rich to afford a good camera. The common people were content with a simple, no frills, point-and-shoot model. But that changed when electronics and digital cameras became available to the public. Now anyone can afford a multi-featured digital camera that takes good pictures. And we can make our own prints or share electronic versions of the pictures with others. In fact, most can afford a camera with features far more sophisticated than they need. Here is a checklist to use when buying a camera.

First, determine what is your purpose in buying a camera? Are you mainly going to share the pictures online? Will you use it to take mainly indoor or outdoor pictures? Will they be portraits or lots of action like sporting events? Are you going to take simple pictures or do you need the ability to take specialty pictures like fireworks at night or a hummingbird in the feeder?

Next, determine how much you are willing to pay for a camera. The old rule is still true: you will get what you pay for. However, you could get a lot more camera than you need. Thus, these are important questions to answer. If you are a novice at photography or if you are technologically challenged, you probably don’t want a complex, many-featured camera with capabilities you will never need. Instead, look for a point-and-shoot model of some kind.

Many want to buy a camera with the most megapixels possible, thinking they have a better camera. The megapixel number tells the resolution of the pictures the camera can take. A larger number means that you can set the camera to take larger pictures that are still very clear. However, these pictures will use several megabytes of memory each. Those wanting to post pictures on the web or email them to friends will not want pictures that large, and neither will the friends on the download side.

Digital cameras have an LCD screen on the back that enables you to see the subject of your picture and the picture after you take it. Be sure this is large enough to see clearly and clear enough to see even in bright light. The lens size will usually determine the zoom range. The larger the camera, the better the flash, generally. But you can zoom into a subject from a distance far greater than the flash can handle. Some cameras have a flash boot on top and this enables the owner to use a more powerful external flash. Generally, the more bulky the camera, the better the flash and the lens, but the less portable and more expensive it is.

More pricey cameras will have additional features like the ability to self-portrait (delay shutter). Some LCD screens can be rotated so that they are visible over the head or down low or even in setting up a delay shutter picture. Many digital cameras take limited video.

Once you have narrowed your field to a particular camera, check reviews of it before you set your heart on getting it. Owners and unbiased reviewers are usually very honest. Check out the type of batteries it uses. If they are not standard, the batteries can get expensive. Also check the memory card to see if it is the same style as other devices you own. Is it compatible with your printer and/or computer?

Not only read the consumer reviews, but also go to a store where you can see and feel the camera, even if you don’t buy it there. Check out what kind of a warranty comes with it. Should you purchase the extended warranty? I generally do for electronics since so much could go wrong that I wouldn’t be able to fix.

Once you have made your selection, then live with it. Be content with your purchase instead of wishing you had gotten something else. Rather, get to know it by reading the manual and using it often. Taking pictures can be fun and is a wonderful way to conserve memories. There is no reason to delay checking out just what camera is right for you.

Following these tips should lead you to a camera that will serve you well for years. But if you're more interested in a professional handling your photography, consider the services of Del Haven Studio, an accomplished Virginia Beach Wedding Photographer.  View their website portfolio for proof.