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Choosing
the right camera for your purposes means asking yourself several
important questions. Are you a casual or professional photo-taker?
What's your budget? Will you need attachment lenses? A tripod? Do
you plan to take the camera everywhere on your trip?
Most of us want something in between a disposable camera and a
really expensive, professional apparatus with multiple lenses and
flashes. Which type best suits you?
Disposable Cameras
general price range $7 - $20
These are the cameras you are given at many weddings to snap candid
photos, and leave for the couple to develop. They are inexpensive,
and are a good option for people who very rarely take photos, or
those do not want to spring for a more expensive camera. They are
also great fun for kids and are available just about anywhere!
Point and Shoot Cameras
general price range $50 - $1000
Point and shoot cameras vary pretty widely in brand, features
and price, so it becomes a little trickier to choose the one that is
right for you. The cameras are perfect for travelers who want a
lightweight, reliable camera that will fit easily in a handbag. They
have fewer settings than an SLR camera (below) and usually have an
automatic flash which goes off when needed. Many have a built-in
zoom lens. They are convenient, affordable and don't require any
fussing around -- hence the name! Many professional photographers
will carry a point and shoot as a back up.
35mm SLR Cameras
general price range: $400 - $4000
"Single Lens Reflex," or SLR, cameras are ideal for
someone who wants a little more control over the picture-taking
process. The types of cameras allow you to look through the lens
itself, rather than a separate window, which means you have a more
accurate view of what your picture will look like. These cameras
generally use 35mm film. You can play around with different types of
lenses on an SLR camera, and the price you pay for the camera will
be significantly affected by which lenses you choose.
Medium/Large Format Cameras
general price range: $2000 - $6000
Designed for professional photographers who want to be able to blow
their pictures up to a size larger than 8X10, most casual
photographers do not opt for this type of camera. You will need a
special type of film for large format cameras.
Digital Cameras
general price range $200 and up
With technology comes convenience. Digital cameras are popular
because you do not need film, and you can share your pictures online
with friends, free! You also get a live preview of the picture by
way of a small screen which displays the digital image on the back
of your camera. Aside from being digital, these cameras are very
similar to a point and shoot; they are easy to operate, usually have
one lens and an automatic flash. (You'll find the price tag a little
higher, though)
In place of film you insert floppy disk or chip into the camera;
when you are done taking the pictures, you download them to your
computer.
For more advice, check out photo.net's "Choosing
a Camera for a Long Trip."
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