Step
2
Look for a 100 percent glass lens as opposed to a plastic one.
Step
3
Buy a camera with as much RAM as you can afford. More RAM means the camera can store more pictures, so you won't need to download or erase them as often.
Step
4
Expect zoom to be the feature you will use most. Compare optical, as opposed to digital, zoom capabilities.
Step
5
Compare flash modes, if any.
Step
6
Investigate viewfinders: Look for an optical (through-the-lens) viewfinder as well as an LCD display.
Step
7
Consider autofocus and macro features, shutter-release lag times, and bundled software.
Step
8
Compare additional features you might want: interchangeable lenses, steady-shot, burst mode, auto exposure, automatic white balance, voice memo, variable shutter speeds, manual focus and self-timer.
Step
9
Compare removable media of various types (if you need more storage space for your photos).
Step
10
Investigate batteries, chargers and battery-saving features.
Step
11
Look for additional features you might need, such as USB or IEEE 1394 (FireWire) connectivity (to connect the camera to the appropriate port on your computer), a battery-time-remaining indicator, an AC adapter or video-out connections for outputting to a television.
