Compact cameras have improved dramatically over the last 12 months. We picks the best ones for your snaps and explain what to look for.
In the world of cameras, there is no more variation of choice than in the compact market. Manufacturers as diverse as GE to Sony and Panasonic to Olympus all have their toes in the water and models can vary from a couple of hundred dollars to even a few thousand when talking top-shelf models such as those from Leica. Styles of compacts swing between a “block” with an LCD on the back for both playback and viewfinder, to more SLR-like bodies with handgrips and occasionally a proper viewfinder.
Storage is usually on SD card, although Sony is sticking to its Memory Stick format in most cases. Sometimes a micro SD card may sneak in, but while in the past there was quite a mix of cards used, standardisation thankfully seems to have gained traction. PC connectivity is generally via USB — Wi-Fi is on its way, probably via Bluetooth. Inbuilt GPS system for geo-logging of photos is starting to appear and PictBridge connectivity for printing is commonplace.
The quality of images has improved too. This time last year, 8-10 megapixels were the norm and this was better than many DSLR cameras 10 times the price! Today, 10-15 seems more the go, which in real terms of postcard sized prints is a slight overkill. While the very nature of compacts means they are targeted at the beginner to intermediate user, the more sophisticated units are full of advanced features such as aperture and shutter speed control, white balance, ISO speed and so on. Of course there is always the fall back to the “Auto” everything modes, making it almost impossible to take a bad shot. Low light is also compensated for with built-in flash units that pop up automatically.
Battery life has been improved as well with 300 shots/charge now the norm. Much of this is due to the switch from “AA” to inbuilt rechargeable Lithium Ion batteries. And two other things should be in the box: a lens cap and a basic (at least 1GB) SD card. If they’re not, haggle for a better price.
What do I look for in a compact digital camera?In the sub-$300 price range there are certain features and functions that are a must. Not that they are essential to taking a good image; more that they are essential to getting a good deal.
PRICE
Anything more than $300 and you’re most likely paying for features you won’t want or need.
BATTERY
AA batteries are popular at this price range. Although they are convenient to replace, they represent an ongoing (and unnecessary) cost. Where possible, grab yourself a camera with a rechargeable Li-Ion battery to save even more cash.
MEGAPIXELS
Look for at least 10 megapixels in this price range.
ISO AND SENSORS
Like megapixels, ISO has settled into an average and 1600 is it. Minor variances in sensor specs and shutter speeds will make little or no difference to image quality.
FUNCTIONS
Face detection, red-eye reduction and image stabilisation are must-haves that will improve your image quality. Everything else is just a gimmick or a luxury.