|
Page 3 of 3
LCD Size
Here’s one spec where bigger is always better. A large (two inches or
more) LCD monitor makes it easier to compose, review and show images to
others. Equally important, in particular to eyeglass wearers, is that
it’s easier to read the camera’s command menu on a large LCD. So even
if you shoot mostly with the eye-level viewfinder, you’ll find that a
large LCD is a good thing to have.
Handling & Portability
When shopping for any camera, especially a D-SLR or zoom compact, make
sure it fits comfortably in your hands and that your fingers fall into
logical locations. Also, you should be able to switch from using the
LCD monitor to shooting at eye level without changing your grip.
One of the main attractions of zoom compact cameras is that, compared
to heavier D-SLRs, they’re easier on the neck. They’re lighter—many tip
the scales at under a pound—as well as smaller. If you want to travel
light, be sure to check the weight.
Batteries & Memory
Battery performance is seldom an issue, but the type of battery is
something to consider. Lithium-ion cells lead the popularity polls, but
rechargeable NiMH AA cells, such as those found in the Sony DSC-H5 and
Olympus SP-510 UZ, are inexpensive, commonly available and, in a pinch,
can be supplemented by high-output disposable batteries.
Similarly, consider the type of memory card your new zoom camera uses.
If you already own a D-SLR that uses CF cards, try to stick to that
type. Whichever card format you choose, purchase as big a memory card
as you can afford. This is important if you’re using a high-resolution
camera and expect to save images as RAW rather than JPEGs.
> Digital Zoom Camera Chart PDF
|
Buyer's Guides 
