It can be overwhelming to compare the vast range of specifications that
different manufactures quote for digital cameras. While some features
may sound impressive, they may not necessarily be ideal for your
requirements. To help you find a camera that suites your needs, here is a
detailed list of the key specifications that really matter and what
each means.
Camera Resolution
Usually, the term ‘megapixels’ denotes camera resolution. This is just
the amount of detail that the camera is capable of recording or how many
pixels it uses to produce an image. With more megapixels, one can print
larger and high quality images. However, image quality does not rely
solely on a camera’s resolution. The lens type and sensor size also
determine image clarity and color accuracy.
Lens Specs
There are three important specs that you need to understand when looking
at lens specs for a digital camera. These include optical zoom, focal
length and lens aperture. Optical zoom is often measured to a power of
X, which can be denoted as 10X, 20X or 24X. That number represents the
number of times the image can be projected on the sensor, depending on
the camera’s focal range. The larger the optical zoom, the higher the
magnification power of the camera.
The focal length for a
digital camera is simply the distance between the censor and center of
the lens. This is usually specified in two numbers, such as 28-280mm.
The first value is the shortest focal length, and the lower this number
is, the wider the angle of view. The latter figure is the longest
distance the lenses can extend. The longer the maximum focal length, the
closer you can zoom in on a distant object.
Lastly, camera
aperture is the amount of light that the lens can capture. It may be
described in different ways, such as f2.8, 2:8, or f/2.8, all meaning
the same thing. The lower the aperture value, the wider the opening that
lets in light into the camera’s sensor. Wider apertures are better
since they give the photographer more control over depth of view.
Censor Size and ISO sensitivity
Camera sensors vary greatly in size. Sensors sizes are normally
indicated in mm (which is the actual size) or as a fraction such as
“1/1.7 inch. Generally, bigger sensors produce better photo quality, but
this will also increase the camera’s size and cost.
Apart from
sensor size, ISO sensitivity is also an important feature. This
specification simply tells you how sensitive the censor is to light. It
is indicated as a value such as 400, 800, 1600, or 6400. The higher the
value for ISO sensitivity, the better quality of pictures you can take
in dim conditions without a flash. However, high ISO sensitivity tends
to detract random speckles of color from the picture, which is often
referred to as ‘noise’.
Shutter Speeds
The shutter speed
is simply the time of length the camera’s shutter remains open to let
light reach the sensor. If you are looking for the best camera that will
allow you to capture moving subjects, then look for one with fast
shutter speed. A fast shutter response time can help you freeze action
and capture moving subjects with clarity. Slow shutter speeds on the
other hand cause motion blur when taking pictures of moving objects.
Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S)
Optical image stabilization technology is an anti-blur feature as well.
With this functionality, you camera can reduce blurring caused by
camera handshake. This is a handy feature if you will be taking photos
while on the move without a tripod.
LCD or Viewfinder
Most digital cameras come with an LCD display where you compose the
picture scenery before taking the shot. Some cameras have touch screen
LCDs, while others come with buttons on the side of the display. Size
for camera LCD displays also varies greatly.
A viewfinder is
much like an LCD display, but is often found in larger units such as
DSLRs and bridge cameras. Viewfinders are easier to use on a sunny day
since they do not glare in bright sunlight like LCDs.
Battery Life and Type
Most cameras typically come with rechargeable lithium ion batteries.
Camera batteries have varying durability and they are model specific. Of
course, the rechargeable batteries come with a charger.
Video Quality
Cameras record videos at different quality rates. A good digital camera
for recording quality videos should record videos at 720p or full
resolution (1080p). Video cameras below those resolutions cannot produce
HD videos.
Camera Size
Cameras come in all sizes. Some
people prefer a compact point and shoot camera as opposed to a bulky
DSLR. To judge how small or bulky a camera is, manufactures usually
specify the size height, width, depth, and weight. For instance, you may
find a camera’s size specified as 37.43 x 65.04 x 10.6 mm and 137grams.
Bonus Camera Specifications
Depending on the digital
camera you choose to buy, the manufacture may specify extra features
apart from those mentioned above. These include: