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How to Buy a Camera Bag
How to Buy a Digital Camera
How to Buy Paper for Printing Photos
How to Buy a Printer for Your Photos
How to Buy a Scanner to Digitize Photos From a Film Camera

The right camera bag can protect your digital camera and related equipment as well as help the user in carrying it wherever they go.  There are many camera bags on the market but consumers can simplify the process by considering four things when making a choice.

What needs to go in the camera bag?

• Determine what you will want to tote around.  For many people, a bag that will accommodate their digital camera, a few rolls of film, and some batteries is enough.  A small case with a couple of pouches may fit the bill.  Others may want to carry extra lenses, cleaning cloths, a small tripod, or memory cards. For them, a larger bag with more pockets and dividers will be necessary.  A good bag must accommodate all of the equipment that will be used.
• Some bags offer moveable pouches and dividers that allow more flexibility in storing the various sizes and shapes of accessories that might potentially go in the bag.

How well will the bag protect the camera and other contents?

• The bag needs to be well constructed.  The stitching on the straps for instance should be reinforced/double stitched.
• The fabric should be suitable for the environments in which it will be carried.  A simple vinyl bag won't offer much protection in wet, rugged conditions outdoors. Waterproof bags or covers are necessary in such environments. Durable cordura is one of several materials that are more suitable.
• Insulated bags that allow the user to insert solid freezer packs to keep the digital camera and film cool, are good when toting a bag for any extended period of time in hot weather.
• Compartments are important to protect the contents of the camera bag.  Contents should not be touching, rubbing, and hitting against each other while they are being transported; thus compartments for each item are important.
• Any bag selected should fit the digital camera well to limit its movement within the bag.  Padding throughout the bag is also critical.
• Zippers offer a more secure seal on the bag than most other closures and thus offer greater protection.

Is the bag comfortable to carry?

The purpose of a camera bag is to allow the owner to take it with them wherever they go.  If the bag is uncomfortable or difficult to carry it doesn't serve its purpose.

·        Belt pouches can be a handy, no hands, means of toting around a small digital camera, a battery, and a few rolls of film but if more equipment is needed, bags with a shoulder strap are more appropriate.  Many people find that if a bag will be carried for a significant period of time, a back pack style camera bag allows more comfort as the weight is not distributed to one side.

·        Padding wherever the bag touches the body can be beneficial; particularly on any straps.  Shoulder straps generally offer the greatest comfort when they are not only padded but wide as well.

·        Ease of use is also a "comfort" factor.  Buyers should check how easy it is to retrieve equipment and materials from the bag.  This includes the ease of operating clasps, zippers and other closures as well as the arrangement of compartments within the bag.  All items should be accessible.

Is the camera bag durable?

• From quality fabric to reinforced stitching, the construction will determine durability.
• Closures are also critical. Zippers should be large toothed, and if going into wet environments, they should be covered. Metal clasps are more durable than plastic ones and tend to reduce any issues with breakage.
  
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When you buy a digital camera, you will want to consider how you are going to use it, the features that are important to you, and the cost.  Of course, seeking out unbiased ratings by current users on any particular digital camera is also very beneficial. 

There are basically 5 categories of digital cameras of various sizes and capabilities. Size and weight are factors to consider based on how you want to use the camera, where, and how often you want to take it with you. Speed can effect your satisfaction as well; most people prefer a digital camera that starts up quickly and requires the minimum time between shots for processing.  Zoom is a factor depending upon what types of shots you want to take and the ability to manually control focus etc. is important for individuals who have more skill.

1.      Ultra compact:  An ultra compact digital camera is the smallest; very portable, and stylish.  Images are acceptable but generally lower in quality than any other type of digital camera.  Many consumers buy an ulta compact digital camera if they will be sharing pictures over the internet primarily and/or just want a camera that they can easily take with them anywhere.

2.      Compact:  A compact digital camera is small enough to fit in a large pocket or purse. The pictures are quite reasonable with better optics that the Ultra Compact cameras.  They offer a variety of features which makes them the most popular models on the market.

3.      Enthusiast:  An enthusiast camera is a bit larger and more expensive than the compact models.  They generally offer more features as well as better images and allow the user to produce larger prints without losing image quality. These models are less expensive than the D-SLR but offer a faster camera.  They are able to zoom in closer, offer higher resolution, and more manual controls than the compact digital cameras and are therefore, suitable for an experienced user or enthusiast.

4.      Superzoom: Superzooms are a full sized digital camera which offers 10x or greater zoom as well as image stabilization to help eliminate camera shake.  These models tend to be less expensive than Enthusiast models.

5.      D-SLR: A D-SLR digital camera is full-sized.  They possess a lot of professional features and their performance is similar to that of a 35-mm film camera.  Professionals and experienced, avid amateurs are best suited to these models which offer interchangeable lenses and many manual controls.  A D-SLR digital camera is the most expensive on the market.

Lenses are an important consideration and relate to how you will use your digital camera.  When talking about lenses, one of the primary considerations is zoom.  You will hear digital zoom discussed.  Digital zoom is a cropping type function in which the center of the image is the focus.  Your primary interest however is optical zoom. Optical zoom allows the user to get better quality pictures of images taken at a distance. There are four types of camera lenses to consider:

1. Fixed focal length lenses:  These lenses offer no optical zoom and aren't particularly good for taking pictures up close but allow the digital camera to remain lightweight and compact.  They are inexpensive however, and can produce good landscape shots.
2. Retractable zoom lenses:  These lenses extend and retract allowing them to remain compact and to protect the lens with the built-in cover. They offer magnification up to 3x, but allow limited manual focus control.
3. Fixed zoom lenses:  These lenses offer up to 12x magnification but make the camera bulkier as they do not retract.  They can accept lens converters for close ups, wide angles, etc. and therefore offer flexibility in this manner.  For a beginner this adds complexity of course.
4. Interchangeable lenses.  These camera lenses offer the best optics and are the most expensive.  They are bigger and heavier but allow maximum flexibility. 

The image sharpness you see in a photograph is based upon the number of pixels that are present in a one inch space and must be considered before you buy a digital camera. Resolution is measured in megapixels.  (a megapixel is one million pixels)  To maintain the sharpness in the image, higher resolution is needed for larger pictures.  Therefore, the minimum number of megapixels you will want is dependent upon the size of images you will want to create. 

1. To share photos on the internet a 2 megapixel digital camera is sufficient.
2. To produce 4x6 prints 3-4 megapixels
3. To produce 5x7 prints 4-5 megapixels
4. To produce an 8x10 image 5 megapixels
5. To produce larger images at least 6 megapixels

As you would guess, it is not a problem for your digital camera to have more megapixels than required for the image, but quality is sacrificed if you have too few! However, keep in mind that a  camera with more megapixels generally means higher cost so if you won't be making 8x10 prints, you don't need to purchase what you don't use.

When you buy a digital camera there is another feature to consider which strongly influences image quality: the CCD or image sensor chip.  Cameras with larger CCD sensors and more of them generally produce better image quality.  Image stabilization is another feature to look for to assure sharp images. Optical image stabilization (OIS) is superior to digital stabilization; shoppers should look for OIS versus "anti-blur" or "anti-shake" technology that doesn't also mention OIS. Some cameras offer dual image stabilization; both optical and digital.

Again, based on how you intend to use your camera, consider other features and buy a model which has them.  The following list provides some examples.

1. If you want extreme close-ups you will need to buy a digital camera with macro mode.  A macro lens allows the user to take shots as close as 3 cm.
2. If you want to be present in pictures be sure the camera offers a self timer or a wireless remote.
3. Flash: If you will be taking a lot of shots of people (and pets) indoors you will want a built in flash with red eye reduction and you will want fill mode for shooting outdoors on sunny days in order to fill in the shadows that are created by the bright sunshine. If you want to be able to take pictures where a flash is not allowed you will need to buy a digital camera with manual control of the flash or the ability to turn it off.
4. Size of the LCD screen.  This is an issue of personal preference.  Do you feel you can see things well through the LCD; is it large enough? Does it have an anti-glare coating and can it be tilted to make viewing easier in sunlight?
5. Just like size and weight, be sure you buy a digital camera that isn't too complicated for your personal taste.  We tend to not use items that are too complicated or uncomfortable. Match the camera to your skill (or anticipated skill) level. 
6. Shooting modes are also important to consider. Many cameras allow you to select a scene or shooting mode and it automatically adjusts white balance, exposure and so forth for a better shot. Modes like night, beach, snow, and so forth are common. Some cameras also offer a manual mode to make those adjustment manually if you prefer.  Burst mode allows you to take shots in rapid successing to capture motion. High Sensitivity Modes let you boost ISO for better low light shots.
7. Optical image stabilization is important for blur free shots. Optical image stabilization is preferred over digital or electronic stabilization methods. Some cameras offer dual stabilization which works well also. This stabilization helps to compensate for small, unintentional hand movements that create blurring.
8. Optical Zoom is good for those times when you can't step closer to your subject. The higher the zoom, the closer you can get to that distant subject. Digital zoom is infererior as it reduces picture quality in larger prints.

Ancillary components should also be thought through before you buy a digital camera.

1. Does the camera have or accept rechargeable batteries? (most do) Otherwise batteries can become quite expensive.
2. What kind of memory does the camera have?  You don't want to have to spend all of your time downloading your pictures. Modern digital cameras use removable memory to meet storage needs.
3. Therefore, external storage or removable media needs to be considered as well.  I would suggest that a camera should accommodate a 2GB, or larger, memory card.
4. Check to see about what type of interface will be used before you buy. How will you download to your computer, will an adapter be necessary to connect the digital camera to your computer? Keep in mind that images with the most megapixels will be slower to transfer.  Wireless download is possible if you want to avoid all of the cables but it does tend to be slower as well. Digital cameras that support USB 2.0 (or FireWire) will transfer more quickly. Some experts also recommend a camera that plugs into the parallel port or PC card slot to perform faster downloading. However, many newer computers will even allow you to insert the memory card directly into your PC and if yours doesn't, perhaps a memory card reader would be useful.

 Two other items you will need to think about before you buy are:

1. What software for image editing does the camera offer?  Certainly you can purchase software separately for this function, but for many people the software on the digital camera may be sufficient.  It's also a very nice feature if the editing program will also catalog photos for you.
2. When you buy a digital camera you will also need to consider a printer unless you don't plan on printing any of the images.  A photo quality color printer will be needed: either a dye sublimated or inkjet printer.

Another possible step in assessing which digital camera will best suit your needs, is to look at how current customers rate the particular camera you are considering.  There are many commercial sites on the internet that offer product reviews and consumer feedback.  It is difficult to discern which ones offer unbiased feedback and yet do not require a subscription or charge a fee.  Our best recommendations include the following:

 a.  JD Power and Associates at: http://www.jdpower.com

 b.      Or for informal comments:

                     http://www.consumerdemocracy.com

         http://www.ratings.net

You can find more shopping tips by referring to some of our digital camera articles.

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Digital camera owners have the option of printing their photos at home. The printer, ink, paper, and print settings selected will all be important. For the easiest and surest way to get the best results, most experts would recommend that the printer, ink, and paper should be produced by the same manufacturer as these products are designed specifically to work together and can vary significantly between makers.

Paper texture:  Using plain printing paper is generally not sufficient for printing images from a digital camera, as the ink tends to absorb too quickly resulting in puddles of ink and fuzzy images. This paper, typically used for printing text documents, may also curl or warp and offers no real protection from fading caused by exposure to air and light.

A porous coated paper is a somewhat better choice, and it allows quicker drying, resulting in a more acceptable image.  However, these papers generally don't produce a photograph that will stand the test of time as they aren't well protected from the air. Fading will occur rather rapidly.

Photo paper is designed specifically for producing and preserving photos taken with a digital camera. This paper will produce a more color saturated image. Some of the paper is described as "swellable, non-porous" paper.  This swellable attribute means that the paper swells as ink is absorbed and then shrinks as it dries, resulting in a barrier that protects the ink from exposure to air. Although offering better fade resistance, this swellable paper is generally a bit more expensive. However for those who are willing to accept a slower drying time and who live in a low humidity environment, it's a good choice.

Paper finish:  In most instances, a glossy, high gloss, or satin gloss finish is preferred by most consumers for color photographs while a matte finish is generally the choice for black and white photos. Glossy photo paper is among the most expensive but is highly recommended for most color prints to assure the best image and greatest durability. Images produced on glossy photo paper tend to make images from a digital camera look most similar to those created in a photo lab.

Paper Size: The size of paper used depends upon the images that will be printed and, of course, the printer's capability. Although 4x6 is the traditional size of most prints, larger paper can allow the user to fit multiple prints onto a single page.  Specialty sizes are available for printing panoramic shots, gift cards, and other odd size images.

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If you're planning on printing any of your photographs, you will need a printer.  The quality of the print is dependent upon the printer, the ink, the paper and finish, as well as the print settings that are selected.

Inkjet printers are common, affordable, and can produce nice images.  Laser printers are faster and can produce an even higher quality print but they are certainly more expensive.  Dye Sublimation printers do not use ink or toner but instead use dyes to produce prints that are photo lab quality; but again they carry a higher price tag.

The following is a list of some of the things you should consider when purchasing a printer for the purpose of printing images:

1. Resolution:  Resolution is basically the number of dots printed in a square inch. Image quality improves as the dpi increases.  A dpi of 1200x600 and up is considered good for photographs.
2. Ink Cartridges:  A printer with separate cartridges for black and other colors produces better color prints.  Some of the best images come from high quality photo printers with 6 colors. If printing black and white images, it's also advisable to use a printer with a separate cartridge for black ink so that the blacks are truer.
3. Speed:  Laser printers are faster but also more expensive.  You will see speed indicated in the literature as ppm or pages per minute.
4. Other features:  There are numerous other features that might be of interest such as a borderless printing feature allowing users to print the image to the edge of the paper which eliminates the need to trim photographs after printing.  Some users need a printer that is mobile, one that they can take with them.  Some printers have an LCD screen that allows users to preview their prints; others have multiple functions such as scanning, faxing, and copying in addition to their printing capabilities.
5. Connections and compatibility: Check to be sure you know how your printer will connect to your computer and that it is compatible with your operating system. In some instances, you may by-pass your computer by using a memory card slot that allows editing and printing from the camera's memory card directly.
6. Paper and ink:  Better paper can play a significant role in producing great images and in determining how time, moisture, and bright light will affect the print.  Paper brightness, weight, and finish vary.  In general, paper that is designed for the specific printer you will be using, and for the purpose of printing photos is the best choice.  Likewise ink from the printer manufacturer also tends to be a safe bet as cheaper/non-manufacturer labeled ink is sometimes of lesser quality.  In addition, manufacturers often produce paper and inks that are developed specifically to work well together.  As mentioned previously, image quality is enhanced significantly when ink colors are in separate cartridges.

* Reminder:  Be sure to select print settings that will create quality images also.  Select the highest resolution setting and be sure settings match the paper you will be using to print.

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If you don't use a digital camera, a scanner is a simple and reliable way of converting images into digital form. The most common devices available to consumers are flatbed and film scanners.  Determining which scanner to purchase can be made simple by thinking through just a few of the options.

What type of work will the user be doing?
Flatbed scanners are designed specifically for use with photographic prints, paper documents, and even three dimensional objects, although some offer a transparency hood or adapter to use them with slides and negatives.  Flatbed scanners are a good all round scanner.

Film scanners on the other hand, are designed specifically for scanning transparencies, film, and negatives.  These scanners offer better resolution for film and negatives than a flatbed, and thus, are a better choice if a high volume of this type of work is expected. They allow users to scan each frame separately, adjusting resolution per frame.

For those wanting to copy from books, flatbed scanners with a sheet feed function should be avoided as only loose sheets can be fed through.  Sheet feed devices also create the risk of jamming.

For those consumers who want to be able to scan, print, and copy with a single device there are multi-function scanners available.  These can certainly save on desk space.

What size images/documents will be scanned?
The bed size on a flatbed scanner can vary from the standard 8.5" x 11.7" and to 12"x 17" and larger. Obviously, a large size bed would allow multiple images to be scanned on a single page or to scan larger documents and images.

How much image quality is needed?
The quality is determined primarily by color depth/bit depth and resolution.  Bit depth is the amount of information each pixel can carry. More is better of course, but certainly 36 to 48 bit is plenty for most uses.

Resolution is measured in pixels per inch (or ppi); sometimes referred to as samples per inch (or spi).  For those scanning text documents 300dpi may be sufficient, but for quality photo scanning 1200 dpi would be the minimum, while film/negatives would require at least 2400dpi.

Dynamic range, which determines the bright to dark range that the scanner picks up is a factor with film scanners.  For such devices, a dynamic range of 3.2 would be considered the minimum for good quality.

Is scan speed important?
The speed at which a single document or image can be scanned may be important for those with high volume work.  Just as with a printer, it can be reported in pages per minute (ppm) but can vary quite a bit based on the resolution and other parameters. Generally speaking, 10-20 seconds to scan an average 8 x10" image is better than average speed.  

Is the scanner compatible with other hardware?
For all but the older computers, a USB 2.0 or Firewire connection is appropriate.  Firewire allows for the fastest data transfer.  Consumers should always assure that their new scanner will have compatible connections to their existing hardware.

What functions will be needed?
Most scanners will allow images to scan to print, scan to file, fax, or e-mail with the push of a button.  They should also come with the software necessary to scan, edit and even take text to a word processing file.  For those wanting a flatbed scanner that will also scan film or slides, the scanner will also need an adapter of some type.  Consumers should think through what they want to do with their scanned images to assure that the functions they need are included. 

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