31st December 2001

Everybody wants something different (though we all want to rule the world, according to Roland Orzabal). I can look at a digital photo and think that it's picture perfect, but someone else might see it having too much of a brown tint. When we go shopping for our own digital camera, however, there are certain undeniable facts. First up: the digital zoom. Don't be wooed by it! For example, this feature might automatically resample a 640x480 image into a 1600x1200 one (the results are overly blurry and semi- pixilated). You can complete the same task by taking a regular digital snapshot then enlarging a certain portion of it with your favorite graphics tool. Another thing to keep in mind: ease of data transfer. If it uses a serial connection, keep searching for a USB one. If it doesn't have removable digital media, hold out for one that does. If you're into instant gratification, consider getting a device with A/V out (so you can preview the camera's contents instantly on a TV set). If you plan on taking any "low light" shots, be sure to get a camera with a tripod thread on the bottom of it. And never, ever settle for second best.