Q/A: Purchasing the right camera is a matter of economics and the results of what you want to achieve.

 Question why verses what you are buying this camera for.

• Consider camera speed, posed family pictures or landscapes verses kids at play.

•  Compact Digital Cameras are slow (They are great for posed family pictures). Yet compact digital cameras offer movie capabilities

•  SLR Digital Cameras take 5+ pictures per second (They are great for kids at play) and the newer models now offer video               

• Question hidden costs, meaning what are the extra accessories will you need?

  • You will need extra batteries and memory cards.

  • Is your computer, monitor, and printer current and capable?

  • SLR: (what you should know)  if you are considering an SLR

  • This web site might help you with your Compact camera selection.

  • Software (see below)

Taking a good picture

• Taking pictures digitally [Tips from Kodak]

• The concept of the rule of thirds. [Most cameras have a grid view, worth studying]

• http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech.htm [Pick and choose from a large selection of 'HOW TOs']

What software should I use

 [Most pros use Adobe products (there is a lot of published help on the internet for their products), yet this is mater of personal choice - Microsoft,  CorelDraw, and Others also make graphic products]

• Beginners could start with Adobe photo elements (under $100) and then progress to Adobe Photoshop ($600+) or Lightroom($300).

  • I always suggest Lightroom since I  also own Adobe Photoshop CS5