Digital cameras used to be measured by their megapixels and zooms. Nowadays, the focus is more on their use. Cameras are built for a variety of uses, and can be found in a wide array of colors, features and prices. Here are four categories of cameras that stand out from the crowd:
The Rugged Camera
These cameras are for the adventurer at heart. They range from water proof, shock resistant, drop resistant to even freeze resistant.
Examples of this model include: FujiFilms FinePix XP60 and Olympus Tough TG-820 iHS digital cameras.
The FinePix XP60 is waterproof, shockproof, dustproof and freezeproof. It comes in an array of colours, but also has the look of a military grade Walkman. It has 16 megapixels and comes with a wide array of features including the ability to film in HD. It can also apply many different filters to your pictures.
The Olympus Tough TG-820 has been out for just under a year but is already being heavily discounted by many retailers. It offers many of the same features as the FinePix, but is only available with 12 megapixels. It has a solid build and can take photos at up to 33 feet below the water.
The Professional Camera
They really range in price( anywhere from $500-$3000 dollars.)These cameras have superior megapixel and digital imaging potential. They are SLR or single lens reflex – which basically means that what you view in the viewer is the image you will see when the pictures is taken( so there is no guessing about what the final image will look like.)
Naturally, these are not easily tucked away in your pocket. The SLR technology requires space, and as a result, the camera is not compact. These cameras come with a huge number of options and settings. The photographer may spend a long time reading the manual and looking through menus to find the perfect setting.
The Nikon D3100. This is a SLR camera at the lower end of the price range. This camera has a 14.2 megapixel ability and many features. It is a high end camera and comes in a bright red colour.
Canon EOS 6D 20.2MP DSLR. This one is closer to the higher end of the price range. It is a beautiful camera that has a wireless Wifi transmitter that can transmit your photos directly to your phone, printer or computer. No more looking for cords! This camera is compatible with a wide selection of Canon lenses.
The “Compact” Camera
The “Compact” camera will make you forget you are even carrying it. These cameras are for the person who wants a thin, light camera to take with them on trips and outings. They promise the quality of a DSLR camera without the bulk, or price. Many of these cameras come with interchangeable lenses.
Examples of this camera include: the Sony Alpha NEX3NLB 16.2MP Compact System, and the Samsung NX1000 20.3Mp Digital Camera with Wifi.
Compact cameras promise SLR quality photos without the weight and size of a traditional SLR camera. They are packed full of options and appear to have just as many features as their SLR counterparts.
The “Smart” Camera
Samsung has a camera that not only takes your pictures, but can also files your taxes. You can edit and upload your photos to its “cloud” storage. It also offers tons of new options that are usually only available on a computer. The Samsung Galaxy Camera is pushing the limits of what the majority of people would consider a “camera”. Many are wondering when these features will become available for use on other phones.
