Journal Entry

Best digital cameras for capturing unforgettable moments

With the hustle and bustle of motherhood, capturing all of your child’s greatest moments on film can be a real challenge. Happily, some of the newer digital cameras on the market have made this task easier. There are many excellent digital cameras out there, with many different features, and it can be difficult to understand the differences between them. When shopping for a digital camera, there are several aspects to consider. While size and cost are the most obvious differences, there are a number of other features to look for. Some of the most important ones are:

• Memory Storage : What type of memory device does the digital camera use? While most will use secure digital (SD), Sony uses their proprietary Memory Stick.
• Pixels : The number of pixels for each photo determines how clear the picture will be. Generally, a digital camera with at least 6 megapixels is considered ideal for a standard 3 1/2″ x 5″ picture. If you intend to enlarge pictures, however, you may want to consider a digital camera with a greater number of megapixels.
• Zoom : The zoom feature on a digital camera allows you to take pictures that appear closer than you really are. For a digital camera, the zoom is noted as a factor, e.g., 2x.
• Video : Most digital cameras have the capacity to take very short videos.
• Automatic red-eye reduction : A digital camera with this feature automatically eliminates red eye without any additional editing.
• Image stabilization : Useful when you’re balancing a baby on one hip and trying to catch a picture of your toddler on the go, this feature compensates for any movement that occurs while you are taking a video.
• Face detection technology : With this feature, a digital camera will automatically focus on the face in a photo.

Canon PowerShot SD850 $299.99*

This camera is a member of the the Canon Elph family, compact cameras that fit in a small purse or pocket. With 8.0 megapixels, 4x optical 4x digital zoom, image stabilizer, face detection and red-eye correction, the SD850 has most of what you will need to photograph your children. With a scratch-resistant viewer, this camera will do well simply slipped into your purse. This digital camera will connect to either a PC or a Mac via a USB 2.0 cable.

Nikon Coolpix L14 $129.00

Lightweight, 7.1 megapixels, 3x optical zoom, 4x digital zoom, red-eye fix, longlasting AA lithium batteries. The Coolpix features a bright LCD screen.

Panasonic DMC-TZ3 Lumix $229.99

Lumix has wide-angle lens capabilities, making it easier to capture the guests at a birthday party in a single shot. This camera has Intelligent ISO Control which will help reduce image blur from children’s movements or poor lighting. The Lumix also has full-size movie capabilities.

Samsung L73 Slim $120.00

If you want a digital camera with excellent video capabilities, consider the Samsung L73 Slim. With 7 megapixels, 3x optical, 5x digital zoom, image stabilization and red-eye reduction, this camera has all the basics plus sophisticated video capabilities. Photos can be directly output to a Pictbridge-compatible printer.

HP Photosmart M447 $89.00

A great camera for the beginner. 5 megapixels, 5x digital zoom. Precision lens allows you to zoom in for clear distance shots. The M447 Features anti-shake mode, red-eye correction,. live action recording in the movie mode, one-touch audio.

Kodak EasyShare $79.00

Another great camera for the first-time user, Kodak has many EasyShare cameras with a range of megapixels from 5-12 that create stunning pictures and quality prints. Features digital image stabilization, perfect touch technology, advanced video feature, red-eye reduction. While all of these digital cameras have a suggested retail price under $400, most retailers, both in-store and on the Internet, charge significantly less. Be sure to shop around for the best price. When calculating the final cost of your purchase, remember to include an additional memory card and a spare battery. *Prices are approximate and could be outdated. This article has contributions from both R Warner and Frances Simon .