When planning to buy a camera, it is best if you know the various kinds of camera on the market. This will save you time and money as well as mental strain from buying the wrong one and having to return it for replacement.

There are no exact rules in buying a camera, but be sure that the camera you buy does the job you intended it for. You should have a first hand knowledge, or at least some basic ideas about cameras.

Here are the different kinds of cameras:

The point and shoot camera:

This camera is popular among many because of its simplicity. There's no need to worry about the control over exposure and focus. This camera allows you to just point and push a button to take pictures.

SLR camera:

SLR camera - SLR means 'Single Lens Reflex.' With an SLR, instead of looking through a separate window as your viewfinder, you actually look through the lens of the camera itself. This is one of the most preferred cameras for professional photographers.

Medium and large format camera:

The medium and large camera appeals to more of a perfectionist photographer who seeks more flexibility and clarity. Medium and large format cameras use much larger sized films than SLR.

Digital camera:

These are the most advance in camera technology. Digital cameras don't use films but instead pictures are stored through the use of computer memory. You can transfer such pictures to your computer and send it via email. However, digital cameras tend to have a slight delay when you push the button to take a picture and you will need a good printer in order to print a quality picture.

Brand, model, and price range:

Among the famous brands of cameras are: Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Minolta, and Kodak, all of them have are known for high quality, when it comes to camera technology. Point and shoot cameras range from less than $100 to $1000. SLR cameras range from $400 to over $3000. Medium and large format cameras prices start from $2000 to $5500. While Digital cameras range from $500 up to $5000 for more advance features.

Tips on choosing the best camera, particularly a digital camera, without overspending:

1. Do your homework and familiarize yourself with the use of the camera before going to the store. Knowing how frequently you you will be using the camera and what kind of pictures you intend to take, will help a lot.

2. Be careful in considering added features, you may not need them anyway. Depending on your experience as a photographer, you will know which features will work best for you. If you're a newbie, standard features will do.

3. More control may cost you more, so think about those extra features - if they are worth it or if you can afford them.

4. If you are planning to get a digital camera, remember that mega pixels do not necessarily dictate the clarity of your pictures. It still helps to know the how-to's of taking the best pictures instead of just relying on the camera's features.

5. When buying digital cameras, concentrate on optical zoom, not digital zoom.

6. Make sure the camera you are considering is compatible with your computer.

David Arnold Livingston enjoys photography, as a hobby.
He recommends the resource: Really Great Photography

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