by Mona Gallagher

Created on: June 17, 2008   Last Updated: June 12, 2010

Digital cameras have come a long way since their appearance in the market place. They hit the consumer market in 1994 and digital photography was off and running and never looked back. I bought my first digital in 2000 and I agree that we've seen great changes since then.

One of the best changes is the prices are a fraction of what they were at the beginning of digital camera technology.

When you own a digital camera, you have the benefit of images on demand. You can download them to your computer or to a printer and make your own prints. Megapixels are important to resolution but not the one and only consideration for all digital needs. A good optical zoom is equally important to capture the shots you want.

The benefits of a digital camera include the ability to share electronic images over the Internet and store them on your computer. To make the most of your digital experience you need a photo folder with the proper imaging tools to view your pictures. When you purchase a new digital camera you receive the necessary software to set up your photo albums.

The camera starter memory card holds images until you're ready to download them. The starter card usually holds only a few images at the highest resolution. It's a good idea to buy an additional card with more memory especially if you take a lot of photos or if you're on vacation and need to store all your images in the camera until you can download them.

Main use of digital images:

To get the most from your digital camera, there are certain questions you need to answer for your camera and your intended use of it. If you plan to share your photos on the web, you don't need a high megapixel camera; you will do well with at 3.5 to a 4 megapixel easily. If you plan to print your photos, a 5 megapixel will print an 11"X14" print with clarity.

Small size cameras are handy especially when they fit in your pocket, but remember that the buttons and controls are going to be smaller too. A camera should be handy enough to carry but not too small as to cause you to fumble with the controls.

Resolution:

If you want to increase your resolution to the highest level, use your optical zoom feature. Your optical zoom acts as a telephoto lens and allows you to zoom in on the action, whereas digital zoom only magnifies your pixels. The higher your optical zoom, the better resolution you'll be able to obtain.

Try your digital in full resolution on auto focus and then try it in low light. Some cameras are slow to focus in low light. Experiment in different light settings.

Manual Override:

Your digital camera probably offers more control than you know. Lower end cameras have presets and most won't allow you to manually focus your photos, but you should refer to your manual and see if your digital allows manual override. In situations where you can't get a lock on the focus, manual override can allow you to lock it in.

Exposure mode:

Many cameras also offer aperture and shutter priority modes. The ability to adjust the size of the lens opening and control how long it stays open can lead to more creative with control over the depth of field. Check your shutter speed specification. Shutter priority can help you catch fast moving objects like your son's first swing at bat.

If you're a casual picture taker you might think you don't need to get too well acquainted with your camera, but if you do, you'll find your images more satisfying and your whole picture taking experience more pleasurable. If you camera is one of the more expensive ones, the least you can do is to help it reach its full image producing potential.

Get the most from your digital camera by becoming better acquainted.

Learn more about this author, Mona Gallagher.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.