Tech & Auto
What To Know Before Buying A New Camera In 2024
By PRARTHANA GOPAL
Camera Types
Each camera type has specific pros and cons. DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) cameras use a single lens, manual controls, and large sensors, but can be bulky.
There are also mirrorless cameras, which capture great images with excellent detail but have limited battery capacity and can be quite expensive.
Lastly, there are action cameras, which are waterproof and can capture video footage during outdoor activities. However, they don't have the best battery life or audio quality.
Smartphones
When upgrading your smartphone camera, it's essential to recognize that the megapixel count alone will not produce high-quality images.
Considerations like high-quality lenses, better dynamic range, and the camera's image processing capabilities are equally, if not more, significant.
Sensor Size
A key factor that affects an image's sharpness and detail is the sensor size. A larger sensor allows for larger individual photosites, essentially capturing more detail.
Larger sensors also offer better performance in low-light conditions. Full-frame sensors, the largest type, are usually only available in advanced, professional-grade cameras.
Lenses
Cameras have interchangeable or fixed lenses, with the latter including zoom or prime lenses. Zoom lenses allow you to adjust focal length without swapping the size.
Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, meaning you cannot zoom in and out, and interchangeable lenses can be attached or swapped out for different lenses when needed.
Budget
The cost of cameras can vary pretty widely, from $150 and under for a simple point-and-shoot camera to well over $2,000 for a professional camera.
Beginners may opt for a mid-range DSLR camera, while professionals require access to large sensors, a higher megapixel count, the ability to change lenses, and other features.