First, determine which of the three categories of camera you need:
1. Slimline point and shoot. These cameras are generally in the 8 Megapixel (MP) range and have image stabilization, face recognition and small lenses. They are best suited to the casual user, as they are small, easy to carry around and use and generally sturdy. The do not have as many features and capabilities as larger or more advanced cameras. Some of these cameras are weatherproof and/or waterproof. If you are buying for an outdoors person, consider asking for these features. Cameras in this category will usually retail for $150-250.
2. Advanced point and shoot. Also called Prosumer cameras, these devices often resemble the larger SLR cameras with a slightly smaller body and no lens interchangability. They often will come with large zoom ranges on the built-in lens (10x to 15x not uncommon). Cameras in this range can run from $250 to over $500. If you are looking at a Prosumer above $400, think about moving up to a Digital SLR (DSLR). The discount you get in camera cost over a DSLR is related to the lack of lens interchangability.
3. Digital SLR. These cameras have interchangable lenses and usually have the best sensor and software. While not as small, they can be operated in both automatic and manual modes, and you have a great deal of creativity at your disposal. Digital SLR prices and functionality have never been better. The entry level $500-$600 cameras are great, and the $700-$1500 midrange cameras are unbelievable, containing features that 2 or 3 years ago would have made the camera cost $3000 or more. This is a hot market. Nikon and Canon are trading blows in many models...and at the same time Sony is leapfrogging them with price, performance and capability in the Alpha line, which is derived from the old Minolta design.
So, you have now chosen your camera category. The following is a more specific guide to choosing a camera in one of the above categories.
Choosing a slimline Point and Shoot
Basic Requirements - 3x Optical zoom or better. Image Stabilization. Face Recognition. 8 Megapixel or better.
Special Features - Movie Mode, Waterproof. Only make these a requirement if you need the feature. New this year is "Smile Shutter" which will supposedly take pictures when the person smiles. Have not tried this...sounds gimmicky to me.
Things to ignore - wireless, digital zoom. Most wireless isn't the "Wifi" that your laptop uses. Look for that to become really popular next year.
Recommendations - There are over 150 models available. Pick a color, manufacturer and price point you like. Expect to spend $150 to $250. Cameras below $100 are probably old models, but might work just fine for your situation. Picking up an old model that has 6 Megapixels or more can be a great deal.
Choosing a Prosumer Point and Shoot
Basic Requirements - 10 Megapixels or more, 10x Optical Zoom, Image Stabilization.
Special Features - Some have movie mode and High-Def output, to show on a high-def TV.
Things to Ignore - Digital Zoom.
Recommendations - Kodak has 15x zoom cameras in the 10Mp range for under $300. Canon also has a 10x zoom in a 9Mp model for under $250. Olympus has a water resistant 8Mp model for under $250.
Choosing a Digital SLR
Basic Requirements - 10 Megapixels or more, Live View (on most models released in 2008). All of the good brands have full manual and automatic modes.
Special Features - High speed shooting, metal bodies, in camera stabilization (Sony/Alpha), High ISO shooting (better pictures in dark - led by Nikon at this point), dust-proof or weather-proof bodies.
Things to Ignore - In some ways, ignore the Megapixels. 10 or more is good in these times. Unless you are planning to routinely make 16"x20" or larger prints, don't get hung up on Megapixels.
Recommendations
Best Entry Level DSLRs:
- Sony Alpha A300K kit. 10.2Megapixels, in-camera stabilization. With starter lens, an amazing $599. Wow! Only issue is lens compatibility. If you have no Canon or Nikon "glass", go for this
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