This may not, at first, seem to be a major concern, but it will be when you
are toting the camera around and attempting to operate it. Visit a store that
has display models of the digital cameras you are interested in. Pick them up
and pay close attention to how you feel holding them, play with the buttons.
Decide if the fit is comfortable. If you keep accidentally hitting the shutter
release button, move on. If the camera buttons and dials are too small and
difficult to operate, move on. Generally the lighter and more compact digital
cameras are preferable because they are easy to carry.
LCD
An LCD screen allows you to review pictures on the camera. This is a huge
advantage, as it gives you the chance to see if the shot turned out the way you
hoped it would before you download the pictures on your computer or print them
out. Some low cost digital cameras do not have LCD screens. Avoid cameras
without this feature.
Focus
It is best, if you can afford it, to choose a camera that allows you to
switch from automatic to manual focus. Being able to switch to manual focus can
help you get the shot you want. The next best thing after manual focus is
stepped focusing. Stepped focusing allows you to choose from preset distances.
Exposure
All digital cameras offer automatic exposure mode, which means all you need
to do is press the shutter release button and your picture is captured. Automatic
mode is perfectly fine for most online use and family photos. If your needs are
a bit more complicated, however, choose a camera that offers aperture and
shutter-priority modes.
The aperture-priority mode allows you to control the image's depth of field,
while the camera adjusts to choose the best shutter speed. The shutter-priority
mode conversely allows you to set the shutter speed to control motion, while
the camera adjusts to select the best aperture. Some digital cameras also offer
full manual exposure control. This allows you the ability to set both
variables.