Basically a digital camera is a device use to capture pictures without the use of film. The increased weight is because these cameras often use heavy batteries even though they have fewer moving parts. The storage used is similar to other computer based products so they are compatible with may other types of media we use to view images. This computer language is called pixels, tiny colored dots represented by ones and zeros that make up the picture that you just captured.

Many similarities exist between the two types of camera because lenses are still required to capture light just the same as a film version. Using an electronic system, a lower specification digital camera does away with film although it is still capturing the light as with a traditional camera. Images seen on good and more expensive models are captured using an alternative method of a charged coupled device commonly known as a CCD which you may have heard of. Some people believe the device used to capture an image in cheaper cameras the CMOS will eventually be the replacement for the better CCD but this is highly doubtful.

The CMOS device is this reason that many models have come down in price so much as they are easier and cheaper to produce than their CCD cousins. The CCD and CMOS devices used in digital cameras capture light like tiny solar collectors both achieving the same effect but just by differing methods. Information to help you choose a suitable model of camera is mention in this review. Other than budget, your main concern should be resolution and what that means is the higher the resolution or megapixels you can afford the better the pictures will be; they can also provide prints that are larger without any degradation.

Better photos will be taken with a digital camera that has an optical zoom and not just a digital zoom; even a camera with a three times optical zoom is worth having. Rechargeable batteries are the best you can use with the NMIH versions able to be charged at anytime, even if they are not fully discharged; this will save money on batteries that are disposable. If it is possible, try to buy a model with many functions as you will be able to create some stunning effects; functions like those listed here for instance:

* Video capture * Time lapse (i.e. one shot every 5 minutes for example) * Self-timer

With large megapixel models, image storage is another issue to look out for and a storage card will be necessary. Although larger storage cards have plummeted in price, a 1GB card should be enough for most peoples needs; some cameras won't accept very high capacity cards anyway.

Many people fall in love with a particular camera but don't ever consider how easy it will be to carry around with them so try not to make this mistake. Why carry around something that is going to make you neck ache when it is not necessary; unless you are a professional photographer of course. I hope these few tips will help you choose a camera you enjoy using for a long time. The future of photography has moved on and digital cameras are that future with almost everyone carrying around one type or another every day.