| Read up magazines and internet articles for the | | | | medium? Big LCD screen for easy composition of |
| latest information of digital cameras. | | | | photos? Range of camera lenses for different |
| Do visit at least a few shops and try out the | | | | effects and capabilities? Can take video? Got |
| different kinds of digital cameras before you | | | | front LCD screen for self-portraits? Waterproof |
| make your purchases. Nowadays, there are even | | | | for underwater photography? |
| compact DSLRS which you may want to consider | | | | A balance can be reached. For me personally, I'm |
| if weight is one of your prime considerations. | | | | using a Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX30 for my |
| Some shops cater to tourists and they sell at a | | | | compact and it has served me well on normal |
| higher price. So do your homework to avoid | | | | photo-taking as it's light. As for more demanding |
| payer higher prices. | | | | works, I have a Nikon D50 and D300 with some |
| Compare prices from different shops for the | | | | 3rd party lenses for more capabilities. |
| same model and also what freebies they are | | | | My recommendations for newbies is that they |
| offering. | | | | get a small compact camera for light use and an |
| Ask yourself what you are really looking for in a | | | | entry-level DSLR if they want to explore more. |
| digital camera. Simple and easy use? Cheap? Good | | | | Do ask around your photography friends as they |
| handling feel? Lots of interesting functions? Light? | | | | will be very willing to share with you their |
| Can take very nice photos? High resolution or | | | | expertise in these areas. |