Camera buyers are faced with more choice than ever before – it can be quite a daunting task to find the perfect model to suit your needs. Choosing the right camera will depend on a few factors, including whether you intend to be an occasional user or are looking to produce professional-quality images.

New cameras are released onto the market all the time. Here are a few tips that should help you to find the right model for you:

The Simple Option

If you’re buying a camera for occasional use – to capture holiday memories or special event images – then a basic ‘point and shoot’ compact digital camera will probably suit your needs. Compacts are designed to be small enough to be carried in a pocket and although prices tend to be affordable they can come with features such as high resolution 20 megapixel sensors, 5 x optical zooms and high definition video capabilities. Plus, you can immediately see the results via an LCD screen before downloading to your computer. These cameras are as simple as it gets these days but can still can produce excellent results with very little know-how.

For Photography Enthusiasts

If you’re looking to get a little bit more serious and intend to take up photography as a long-term interest then you might be looking for a digital SLR model. You don’t need to spend a fortune to obtain professional results – and remember that quality cameras are always available through the second-hand marketplace. The amount of megapixels is important and generally the higher the better, but when it comes to digital SLR you also need to consider sensor size – and bigger is definitely better in this case. Sensor size will be important when it comes to printing your images because large sensors mean higher resolution and more detailed images.

Undertake Some Research

Dedicated camera stores will be one of the best options when it comes to choosing the right camera to meet your needs. If you really want to undertake some research before buying then check out a specialist camera site or take a look at an online camera buying guide. Visiting a professional store means that you can try before you buy and get the feel of different cameras, check how responsive the model is and gauge the weight of particular models. Take a few photos when trying out and ask to see them printed or ask for sample photos for specific cameras before making your ultimate decision.

If you’re serious about pursuing photography then you’ll no doubt move on to building up a professional system including a variety of lenses.. Photography is a rewarding pursuit and undertaking a little research before buying should help you to find the right camera to match your ambitions.