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Compact Digital Cameras

Small cameras, big features

Forget the pixel count and look for the best features in these miracles of miniaturizatoin!

By Mason Resnick - March 11, 2009

First things first: Don't worry about how many megapixels a compact digital camera boasts. At this point, that number is irrelevant since all compact digital cameras enough resolution for big blow-up prints. 12MP? Don't be impressed. 8MP will do you just fine. There are other features and capabilities to look for in a compact digital camera:

Lag time: Does the camera hesitate before taking the picture when you press the shutter release? Most inexpensive ones do. You pay for short lag time.
Smarts: Most compact cameras offer a plethora of scene modes, and the newest models have some variation of "Smart Auto," which analyzes the scene and determines which scene mode combination of settings will give you the best exposure--all in a fraction of a second.
Face recognition: Many newer cameras can identify faces in a scene and optimize exposure for them. Some will even warn you if your subject blinked!
Ruggedness: Once upon a time, if you dropped a camera or got it wet, it was dead. Now a new generation of ruggedized cameras are starting to hit the market so if you're a spaz or have an active lifestyle, this is an essential feature.
Advanced features: If you already have a DSLR or simply like taking control of the camera from the camera, some models have manual exposure and focus overrides as well as other advanced features, so you can get the benefits of a DSLR without the bulk.

Use this section to find out how compact cameras work, and which one may be right for you. But remember: pixels don't matter any more.

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Does sensor size matter? YES!

Full Frame? Micro Four Thirds? APS? Here's a guide to how sensor size affects image quality.

ArticleBuying Guides Gear Guides & Reviews - by Mason Resnick, 2 days ago

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The size of a camera’s sensor can directly affect image quality, especially when you’re shooting above ISO 100. Here’s what you should know when you’re shopping for a new digital camera

TAGS: digital camera, digicam, sensor, ISO, comparison, compared

The best budget-priced digital cameras right now!

REVISED FOR 2009 HOLIDAY GIFT-GIVING SEASON

ArticleCompact Digital Cameras Gear Guides & Reviews - by Mason Resnick, 25 days ago

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Can you find photographic happiness for $200 $150 $130 or less? These compacts offer great features and won't break the bank.

TAGS: digital, camera, budget, bargain, digicam, point and shoot

The Best Underwater Compact Digital Cameras Right Now!

Jump jn with any of these cameras...the water’s fine! Updated for the 2009 Holiday gift-giving season.

ArticleCompact Digital Cameras Gear Guides & Reviews - by Jason Schneider, October 19, 2009

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Here’s a selection of cool, compact, submersible cameras designed to ride in and under the waves and withstand the rigors of rugged outdoor use!

TAGS: digital camera, underwater

The best fashion compact digital cameras right now!

UPDATED FOR THE 2009 HOLIDAY GIFT-GIVING SEASON!

ArticleThe Best...Right Now Gear Guides & Reviews - by Mason Resnick, October 16, 2009

Do you need a camera that matches your wardrobe? Do you like to shoot in style...but still bring back stunning shots? Here are very capable cameras that also happen to be real lookers.

TAGS: digital, camera, compact, fashion, colors, SD card, pocket-sized

Zen and the art of digital camera maintenance

10 tips that will keep your camera on target

ArticleCompact Digital Cameras Gear Guides & Reviews - by Mark Lent, October 2, 2009

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“Normally, we do not so much look at things as overlook them” is a popular Zen quote, but when it comes to digital cameras, you shouldn’t overlook their regular maintenance. Keep your camera in good shape and it will reward you with years of gr... Read more

TAGS: digital camera

Troubleshooting your digital point-and-shoot camera

What to do when your camera craps out

ArticleBeginner Techniques and How-Tos - by Mark Lent, September 7, 2009

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There you are, on the vacation of a lifetime with an incredible view before you and BOOM, your camera decides to have an attitude problem. Here are ten common digital camera breakdowns and how you should handle them.

TAGS: photography, point and shoot, beginner, snapshots, basic

Is the Olympus E-P1 interchangeable-lens compact digital camera street smart?

We push the envelope with a Street Photography Stress Test/100 in 100, Day 94

ArticleProduct Reviews Gear Guides & Reviews - by Mason Resnick, July 30, 2009

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We rarely see the kind of buzz that led up to the launch of the Olympus E-P1.

TAGS: Olympus, street photography, system compact, Olympus E-P1

100 in 100: The most important System Compact Cameras right now

100 Photographic Tips in 100 Days, Part III: Day 53

ArticleBuying Guides Gear Guides & Reviews - by Mason Resnick, July 20, 2009

Which key System Compact digital cameras are game changer that might influence features on future models—or help you make your next buying decision?

TAGS: digital camera, compact, advanced, Canon G10, Panasonic G1, Nikon P6000