Recently, I've had a series of questions from visitors to the site related to seeking help with new cameras, both in finding new models that will meet a particular set of needs and in making the most of the new camera, after the purchase.
These questions have sparked a new series of articles and additions to the site that I hope will help you with your new camera.
- Learn to use your camera. I published the first in this series recently, titled Initial Setup, that will help you figure out how to proprely unpack the box, charge the battery, and insert the memory card. I will be publishing a few similar articles in the next few weeks, including articles on working with the camera's menu structure and learning the basic computer terminology you need to know to make your PC work with your camera.
- Finding the right camera. Look through a series of articles on the site to find a list of good cameras at various price points, such as the best cameras for under $300 or the best cameras for under $100. You also can read reviews of various models, and I'll be adding to those reviews in the next several weeks as well.
- Learn the terminology. I've added several new entries in the site's digital camera glossary. Be sure you learn all of the appropriate terminology before beginning your shopping trip.
- Finding the right manufacturer. Finally, make sure you stick with major manufacturers when selecting a new digital camera. We've listed some of the best digital camera manufacturers that can help you when purchasing a new model, and I'll be adding a few new companies to the list in the next few weeks.
Comments
What do you think of digital cameras from Fujifilm and Panasonic? Did you leave them off the list of best manufacturers because you do not recommend them?
Gary,
Thanks for the comment – and this gives me a chance to clarify … the manufacturer’s area is a new section of the Web site, and I’m still adding companies. Certainly the two you pointed out will be added during the next several weeks.
I have a few criteria I try to follow when adding companies to the list – for example, they need to be right around the Top 10 in market share, they need to have fast and accurate responses to customer requests, and they need to make reliable, good cameras. They don’t have to be perfect every time with the latter two critera, but they have to be reliable.
I hope everyone can be patient with me as I do some research into each of these companies and make sure they deserve to be on the list.
Thanks!
Kyle
Kyle,
Have you considered setting up a way for a reader to contact you directly, for a fee? Kind of – ask me a question for $25? I ask because I think most digital cameras go unused because of very simple gotchas.
After reading your article on the best cameras for under $300 I think I have narrowed my own search down. Thanks for the help!