You can expand the capabilities of your digital camera–and it might not cost you extra. When shopping for a compact, look for the following:
PANORAMAS: Enjoy shooting scenery, landscapes and the great outdoors? Some cameras offer a Panorama Mode that greatly facilitates capturing a series of images that can be stitched into an exciting panoramic shot. They even provide the stitching software. Here’s a before-and-after example of five photos stitched together using Photoshitch, which is included with Adobe Photoshop Elements. Check your camera’s specs to see if it comes with stitching software.
Five images, before panorama stitching software was applied:
The same shots transformed into a panorama with stitching software:
Photo by Mason Resnick
VIBRATION REDUCTION: The number one enemy of image sharpness is Camera Shake. Low light levels, long zoom lenses and unsteady hands all contribute to the jiggles. Some cameras offer Image Stabilization or Anti Shake technology to combat the camera movement. Once you’ve tried it you’ll be amazed how well it works.
However, there are two kinds of anti-shake technology out there, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
- Optical Image Stabilization moves glass elements in the lens in reaction to slight camera movement. This has been shown to reduce camera shake noticeably while not interfering with overall image quality. However, it does not freeze moving subjects.
- Non-Optical Image Stabilization automatically boosts the sensor’s light sensitivity (ISO), allowing the camera to choose a faster, motion-stopping shutter speed. This can freeze both camera and subject motion, but may also increase overall graininess, or digital “noise,” so the disadvantage with this method is that overall image quality might suffer.
When in the market for a compact digital camera with anti-shake, make sure you know which kind you’re getting.
WEATHER RESISTANCE: When you need it, you need it bad. Even the slightest exposure to moisture can render a camera inoperative–and void the warranty. Cameras that are designated “splash proof” or “water resistant” generally can be exposed to light moisture, drizzle, etc. but not actually submersed for long periods. Cameras called “waterproof” can usually take a dunking. The Penatx WPi, left, can be submerged down to five feet deep, making it ideal for snorkelling. Check the specs and owner’s manual for specific limitations of the camera you’re considering.
AUXILIARY LENSES: Many compact digital cameras will accept Auxiliary Lenses that attach to the front and either increase the telephoto effect or broaden the reach of the wideangle. They work quite well, and are the perfect accessory to take along on vacation, to a soccer game or just for fun. Below, a wide-angle lens and adapter for Nikon Coolpix cameras.
Only a relative few compact digital cameras have the ability to handle auxiliary lenses, and the lenses themselves are an additional expense. If you’re interested in buying a camera with this feature, check the specs. © Adorama Camera
