Re: Digital camera info (I hope this is on topic!)

At 9:43 PM -0400 8/29/01, Tanya wrote:
>Hello,
>I would like to purchase a digital camera (the kind that takes no film
>but feeds the photos into the PC (likely only via USB) and one can
>choose to save or delete.) -- (not the cam recorder)
>I do not require a sophisticated camera, but close-ups would be nice.
>I apologize if this is not on-topic
>TIA,
>sincerely
>Tanya



Tanya,

Several things should be considered before purchasing:

Price, both of the camera any whatever accessories or other equipment 
may be needed. In addition to the camera, consider: extra 
rechargeable batteries and a battery recharger, extra media, CD-R 
writer, possibly an external flash, etc..

Several types of media exist, and different cameras take different 
types. I recommend Compact Flash (unless the camera can take an IBM 
microdrive and you need the capacity).

Resolution: at least 3 megapixels.

Macro capability, if that's what you mean by close-ups. Cameras 
differ in how close they can get and how well they focus at close 
range. Some cameras have an attachment lens for macro close-ups, and 
some even have special flashes for this purpose.

Archiving the pictures. If these are photos you want to save, then 
plan on placing them on CDs. You would need a CD burner with 
appropriate software.

Image editing. Most digital photos benefit from editing, and you need 
appropriate software, as well as the knowledge of how to use it. 
Although many cameras include some software, it's generally very 
basic, too basic. I'd recommend you look at Photoshop Elements (you 
can download a 30-day trial version from the Adobe site). If you get 
really serious, then consider the full version Photoshop.

Image cataloging program. Look at Extensis Portfolio. Another 
professional program is Cumululus. Several shareware programs are 
available, and the camera may include a basic cataloging program.


I suggest you read the reviews posted at http://www.dpreview.com.

You may also want to post a question in one of the forums there.


Jeff



-- 
___________ Jeff Kane ___________
__ Digital Imaging for the Web __
_______ www.oceansong.com _______

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