Digital Photography For Dummies. Julie Adair King

that is especially attractive to vloggers — people creating and starring in videos they post on YouTube or other online video platforms.FIGURE 1-13: Some monitors can be adjusted to different viewing angles.

       Touchscreen operation: Of course, all smartphone and tablet cameras can be operated by touch, as can the devices' picture-playback tools. But touchscreens are being included on many other types of digital cameras as well.

       Wireless connectivity: Many cameras offer this feature, enabling you to enjoy the cable-free life when it's time to download pictures to your computer. Additionally, the camera manufacturer may provide a mobile app that enables you to view and transfer pictures from your camera to a smartphone or tablet via a wireless connection. The app may even make it possible to use your smart device as a wireless remote control for the camera.

       In-camera editing tools: Many cameras offer built-in retouching filters that can fix minor picture flaws, such as red-eye or exposure problems. For easier online sharing, you also may find in-camera options that create low-resolution copies of high-resolution originals and convert Raw files into the JPEG format. (You have to convert Raw files to JPEG in order to share them online.) These tools are especially helpful for times when you need to print or share a photo before you can get to your computer to fix the image in your photo software or create an online version.

       Conveniently located tripod socket: For long-exposure shooting, a tripod is a necessity. Most cameras offer a socket for attaching a tripod, but the placement is not always thoughtful. Some are positioned such that you can’t access the battery or memory card slot while the camera is on the tripod — a design that will quickly become an annoyance.

So … Is It Time for a New Camera?

      Summing up all the details in the preceding sections, the answer is “Maybe.” Consider investing in a new model if any of the following statements apply:

       You’re not happy with the quality of your printed photos.

       You have trouble capturing action shots because your camera is a slow performer.

       Your pictures appear noisy (speckly) when you shoot in dim lighting.

       You’re a serious photographer (or want to be) and your camera doesn’t offer exposure control, Raw image capture, a flash hot shoe, or other advanced features.

       Your current camera is so big and heavy that you often leave it behind — and when you do take it along, your neck and back start to hurt in no time.

      Of course, some cameras address these issues better than others, so again, be sure that you read reviews on any new model you consider. Also consult with the salespeople at your local camera store, who can point you toward cameras that best solve the picture-taking problems you’re experiencing.

       AVOIDING SHOPPING PITFALLS

      Whatever camera you decide to buy, remember these shopping tips:

       Be suspicious of unusually low prices. If you see new camera equipment offered for significantly less than it's priced at major retailers, you can be pretty sure you're buying gray market goods. These are goods manufactured for sale in other countries, where the market may require lower prices than in your neck of the woods. Gray-market sellers snap up those bargain-priced models, import them, and then offer them to you at “bargain” prices. Usually, your purchase turns out to be anything but a good deal, however. You may find that the camera warranty is no good in your country, the user manual is written in a foreign language, or you have to pay extra for components that usually are included in the camera box, such as the battery charger.

       Remember that a higher price tag doesn't necessarily translate to better pictures. Yes, you typically pay more for cameras that offer the features that deliver higher photo quality, such as larger image sensors. But just as with any other product, you can also pay a premium for vanity features, such as a limited-edition model that bears a celebrity's name or has a case made out of leather. Go for it if those things make you happy; just don't expect them to improve your photos. Nor does paying through the nose for the latest and greatest smartphone promise of superb image quality; as detailed elsewhere in this chapter, the smaller sensors and lenses used for smartphones simply can't produce the ultimate in image quality.

       Check the return policy. Find out about the camera’s warranty and the return policy of the store where you plan to buy. Many retailers charge a restocking fee, which means that unless the camera is defective, you’re charged a fee for the privilege of returning or exchanging the camera. Some sellers charge restocking fees of 10 to 20 percent of the camera’s price. You might also consider renting the camera you're interested in for a day or two so you can be sure it's the right choice. Some camera stores offer this service, and you also can rent from online companies such as BorrowLenses (www.borrowlenses.com) and Lensrentals (www.lensrentals.com).