by Chris Campbell
Is an SLR camera really worth the extra money? I know I’ve taken some pretty amazing photographs using just a simple, cheap point and shoot camera. I’m sure everyone has. Sometimes it’s just a matter of being at the right place, and recognizing a moment that would make a memorable photo. So, is buying a camera like the Olympus E510 SLR really necessary? Maybe. It’s true that a good tool in the hands of a competent artist can create great art, but lets carefully examine that tool before jumping to any conclusions.
Getting what you pay for is more true with ultra compact digital cameras than with other cameras. There is an extra price to be payed for miniaturization. Your pocket digital camera is going to cost more for the same features as a regular sized digital camera. If you find prices that don’t reflect that axiom, then be wary. While there are exceptions, and model close out discounts, if the price is very low, than the manufacturer has likely comprised image quality even further by cheaping out in less obvious areas like lens quality, or image sensor (CCD) size. Be sure to read the fine prints on the technical specs in this case.
Durability is also another area manufacturers will compromise pocket cameras for dollar savings. One manufacturer that has gone the other way with this philosophy, is Olympus. Their Olympus Stylus 790SW pocket size line of cameras are waterproof, dust proof, shock proof, and freeze proof. Yep, you read the right, they are freeze proof.
Canon came along with the new EOS 5D digital cameras that have 12.8 mega pixels, microdrive and compact flash. The camera type is a SLR. Consumers have found that this Canon digital camera is lightweight and easier to handle when using. The camera delivers a higher resolution and attention to detail. The full frame sensor is a plus for digital photography.
Really nice pocket digital cameras can be found just about anywhere. They’re very popular, but should not be confused with the camera with your cell phone.
A good quality ultra compact pocket digital will far surpass any cell phone camera both in image quality, ease of use, and control of your picture taking settings. Just be sure to look around and do your research. Not all pocket cameras are created equally.
