Camera
How Much Does a Camera Really Cost? Make Sure you Budget Right Before Buying a New Camera
May 30, 2010 | 
Author Digital cameras are not different than other consumer electronic products. The cost of ownership is not limited to the sum paid to purchase the camera. In most cases consumers find themselves spending more money on accessories and other additional products. Failing to budget for those extra expenses can result in buying a camera just to find out it is not operable without spending more.
When buying a new camera consumers usually compare the features of different cameras and the prices at different stores. However often consumers fail to check what is included with the camera they plan to buy or more importantly what is not included. Some attention to details is needed in order to assess the real cost of the camera and to budget accordingly.
Following is a simple list of what to check and include in the budget of a new camera:
Memory card: All digital cameras store photos on a memory device. Usually a removable memory card is used. Most cameras include a basic small memory card. For example many cameras today come with 32MB of memory. Such a small memory card can hold a small number of photos and is not practical. When buying a camera always make sure to check how much memory is included. Then assess how much memory you will need (for example if you are going to take a lot of photos and wont have a computer handy to dump them onto you will need a bigger memory card). The next step would be to check the prices of such memory cards and to budget it in your camera purchase.
Batteries: All cameras include a battery that powers it up. There are many types of batteries for example standard AA or AAA or proprietary rechargeable batteries. Regardless of the type of battery when purchasing a camera check what batteries it uses and what batteries are included. Also check what the estimated battery life is. For example you probably need to buy an extra battery if your photo sessions are longer than the battery life. Make sure you budget the price of additional batteries before purchasing the camera.
PC connectivity: Any digital camera will eventually be connected to a PC in order to download photos. The most common methods of connectivity are USB and plugging the camera’s memory card directly to the PC. Make sure that your camera includes the USB cable needed to connect to the PC. If you prefer connecting the removable memory directly to your PC budget an adaptor that can bridge between the memory card and the slots available in your PC.
Carrying case: Most cameras do not include a carrying case. For many consumers a carrying case is not a must have accessory. If you want to have a carrying case make sure you shop for the right one before buying the camera and that you budget its cost.
Lenses: High-end cameras such as digital SLR often require additional lenses. When reviewing your camera check what lenses come with the camera. If you are an amateur or a professional photographer and you know you will need more lenses shop around for lenses that fit your camera and budget their prices. Lenses can be very expensive and sometimes can cost more than the camera itself. For example when buying an SLR camera for outdoor photography that requires zoom lenses make sure you budget such lenses that fit the camera you plan to buy.
External Flash: In most cases an external flash is not needed. However it is good to check what external flashe devices are compatible with your camera and what their price range is. If you are an amateur or a professional photographer and you know that you will need an external flash in addition to your camera’s built-in one make sure that you shop for one that can work with the camera and budget its cost before purchasing the camera. External flash devices prices can vary and can be a costly addition. Some high-end external flashes can cost more than the camera itself.
In conclusion it is important to remember to budget not only the basic camera price but also the prices of the mandatory and optional accessories. For example if you are going to take indoor photos and you need a large memory card and an external flash make sure that you budget those accessories before purchasing the camera. Failing to do so can result in spending your entire budget on the camera just to find out it is useless without some more essential accessories and more spending.
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How To Buy A Camera Cell Phone | Your First Camera Phone
Phone manufacturers are making the most of the growing popularity of the camera phone market. Profits for companies such as Nokia, Siemens, Motorola are steadily increasing and have the intensified the competition to make better models of the original camera cell phones. Carriers will often give away a great camera cell phone if you sign a cell phone service agreement.
Camera Cell Phone Benefits:
Even though the camera cell phone can be considered a luxury item, there are many benefits to owning this mobile communication device that can serve a dual purpose. Snapping pictures of people, places and things has never been easier. This is a great way to keep in touch with family and friends who live far away. With a camera cell phone, you are never without a camera and can snap that “once in a lifetime” shot with ease. The pictures you take can easily be uploaded to your personal computer. Some of the newest camera cell phone models have high resolution photos,red eye reduction and zoom options that rival a digital camera. Photo quality is largely dependent on the type of camera phone you purchase, but is generally an excellent investment.
Many camera cell phones can act as a mini camcorder as well as taking pictures. Basic camera phones will usually make a 30 second movie. You may have the option to upload the movie clip to your PC and transfer to the Internet.Some camera phones allow you to simply email the clip directly family and friends. This is the perfect feature for special occasions or moments when you do not have access to a regular camera.
Camera Cell Phone Disadvantages:
Although camera cell phones are wonderful devices, there are a few distinct disadvantages to owning a camera phone over a regular cell phone. If you have to purchase your camera phone, the cost is often more than a regular cell phone. Be aware that sending photos can quickly become expensive. Every carrier has their own rates for sending photos and it can be quite costly.
Depending on the model of camera cell phone you choose, the picture quality may not be what you would like. Learning how to focus the lens on a camera phone can be quite challenging and may result in many blurry pictures before you learn the technique. Should you drop the camera phone and crack or break the lens, it can be costly to have it repaired. Check with the manufacturer before you make your purchase because some models can not be repaired at all. A broken camera lens will result in a new phone purchase.
If you are planning to buy a camera cell phone, you should budget a bit of extra cash for additional insurance. Insurance on your camera phone can save you some expensive repairs or replacement of your phone in case if is lost or stolen. The small size of most camera phones and cell phones today makes an ideal target for a pick pocket or purse snatcher.
If you are new to the mobile world, compare options and cell phone promotions offered by carrier companies such as Cingular, T-Mobile or Verizon. Most companies offer free camera cell phones if you sign a cell phone service agreement. Your free camera phone probably won’t be the the best they have to offer, but will be good enough for you to get accustomed to using a camera phone. After a 6 month membership, you may be able to upgrade or trade in your current camera phone for a better model. Check for this option before you sign your cell phone service agreement.
The camera cell phone is the most popular type of cell phone on today’s market. The convenience of having a camera at your fingertips can be fun and inexpensive if you don’t abuse your carrier rates for sending pictures. The camera cell phone is a handy tool for party or fun pictures. As long as you don’t expect professional level photography from your camera phone, you should enjoy having a camera handy for all those great photo opportunities.
Shop around for the best deals and always ask carriers their rates for sending pictures MMS. Rates can vary greatly and you want to get the best deal so you can use your camera phone often. Camera phones are also available as a prepaid cell phone, but prepaid cell phone rates are more expensive. MMS and text message rates are also quite a bit higher than a regular cell phone plan. Learning how to buy a camera cell phone isn’t difficult, but it does require you to do your homework before making any purchases.
Spy Surveillance Cameras, Trading Information for Sales
Are you selling spy surveillance cameras and other surveillance equipment online? Would You like to build up the number of repeat custom?
You aren’t alone. The e-commerce community has a large number of specialist spy surveillance camera and surveillance equipment specialists trying to tap into the same market.
This isn’t to say that the there is no money to be made in selling spy surveillance cameras and other spy equipment. Frost and Sullivan, a European research firm, released a report last month stating that, in 2005 the European market for wireless spy cameras and other equipment was worth US$1.42 billion and that was predicted to rise to US$1.94 billion in 2012.
So how can you make the most of that market and build a customer base that will come to you first when they need to replace, or add wireless spy cameras, outdoor surveillance cameras, hidden spy cameras or some other kind of surveillance camera to their security system?
Dealing with customers honestly and openly is a good first step but what else can you do? One sure way to build a loyal customer base that will stick by you through thick and thin and go to you first when they need a surveillance camera, is to convince customers is that you are a surveillance camera expert and you care about them and their surveillance camera setup and you aren’t just another salesperson trying to make a quick profit.
But how can you do this short of writing “I am an surveillance camera expert and I care about your business” all over your website?
This can be done several ways, including through article submission, but perhaps the most direct way is to provide customers with useful common-sense descriptions and give people a decent amount of free information about selecting and installing systems.
Provide customers with a decent, common sense description.
The easy thing to do when putting a new product on your site is to just take the description off the sourcing company’s material and put it onto your own site.
But by doing this you are missing a golden marketing opportunity to differentiate yourself from other companies selling the same hidden spy camera that you are.
Here are some things you might want to add:
*Disclaimers warning customers about potential problems they face
*Easy-to-understand descriptions of the cameras capabilities
Two disclaimers you might want to warn customers about are the legal implication of cameras that record sound and which color format camera they purchase, PAL or NTSC.
There has been an increased level of interest in hidden spy cameras and wireless spy cameras due to shows like ‘big brother’ and the increased number of child care professionals taking on the role of caregiver while both parents work. Parents have been especially keen to get hidden spy cameras that record sounds, as well as images.
While there’s no law against them purchasing and installing these cameras they could run into trouble if they find out that something is going wrong and they try to use the voice recordings from hidden spy cameras as evidence. Legislators from most companies consider taking a sound recording of another person without their consent to be a breach of privacy and they probably won’t allow it to be used as evidence.
It might be worth putting a disclaimer on hidden spy cameras and wireless spy cameras that record sound warning customers to check with local laws before using sound recordings as evidence.
Another disclaimer you might want to put on all camera descriptions could be to warn customers to check whether their camera is compatible with the rest of their system before purchasing it as PAL cameras will occasionally not work with NTSC systems and vice-versa.
You have probably struck this problem before where your customer has unwittingly bought a PAL camera to plug into their NTSC monitor or vice-versa and think when they get nothing but a black screen that you sold them a faulty product when this is not in fact the case.
If you always tell your customer what format the surveillance camera comes in and advise them to check that it is compatible with their existing surveillance equipment you should see an immediate improvement in customer satisfaction.
The surveillance camera and outdoor surveillance camera market is a complex world with a detailed lexicon of words used to describe the capabilities of the hidden spy cameras and wireless spy cameras that make it up.
That doesn’t mean that customers will always know that it is that they are looking at though and they will probably have a higher esteem of you if you explain the capabilities of the surveillance camera or set in a way that they can understand, as well as listing the specifications.
So instead of just putting “0.001 lux – 400 lux” into the product specifications add “will capture images in any light conditions” to the product description as well.
Help your customer choose the system and surveillance equipment that is right for them.
It is fairly common knowledge in internet marketing that free information equals more sales. Buying wireless spy cameras and hidden spy cameras is a big capital outlay and customers will appreciate any information you can give them about spy surveillance cameras.
The best piece of advice you could help them with are factors they should consider when choosing between a wired surveillance system and a wireless one.
People looking for a home, or outdoor surveillance system should probably look more at a wireless surveillance system as there are less installation issues with wireless spy cameras. However, if your customer is looking for a system with a clear picture for a business they will probably be better going with a wired system.
Suggesting to your customers that they purchase a DVR recording system will also be beneficial for your business and for your customers’ surveillance systems in the long run.
VCR recording systems cost a lot less to install than DVR systems but they will require more maintenance and aren’t as flexible or capacious as a DVR system.
However, if your customer has their heart set on getting a VCR recording system suggest that they set the surveillance camera on a lower frames-per-second (FPS) rating to save capacity.
There you are. You will be able to improve your credibility and seller reputation with just a few simple changes to your site which will take no more than an hour to complete. So what are you waiting for? Improve your site today.
How To Choose The Right Surveillance Camera System
Surveillance Camera Systems come in all shapes and sizes and trying to figure out which surveillance system that will fit your needs can be very frustrating, but most cameras and systems today requires very little experience to install and operate. This article describes several factors to consider before purchasing a surveillance camera system.
General things to ask yourself:
– Should I buy Wireless or Wired surveillance cameras? Wireless is much easier to install than wired. – How many cameras should you buy? Using too many cameras will be expensive, not enough will only give me limited coverage. – Should I use Indoor or Outdoor type cameras? – Does my application require recording of the surveillance activity? If not, the cost can be reduced because a DVD recorder will not be necessary. – Does my surveillance system require that I can monitor over the Internet when away from my business or home.
Let’s describe the different types of surveillance cameras and systems which will be helpful to determine which one to buy depending on the type of use.
Hidden Cameras: These types of cameras are for indoor use only and come in a variety of different kinds of ordinary looking objects. For instance a small hidden camera are embedded in everyday objects like an Alarm Clock, Air Freshener, Fan, CO2 Detector or even a vanity Mirror. They are usually installed in one room and used to catch any suspicious activity in the room installed. Most of them use a 12-hour rechargeable battery pack with no wires or cords to plug in. Most all of these type of cameras are wireless but some can be wired. By far, you are better off choosing a wireless kind, which takes minutes to set up. To view or record the activity a 2.4 GHz Receiver attaches to your TV or VRC or DVR, which also only takes just a few minutes.
Surveillance Camera Systems: For business type applications you make want to consider a bundled system that includes all the components need to watch you business when you are there or way from it. Your business may need 4, 8 or 16 cameras also referred to as channels. For instance a small but location may need 8 cameras or as many as 16. They can be wireless or wired. If you are looking for an easy installation choose wireless, that way no messy wires to deal with.
A 4 Channel Wireless Complete System is also perfect for a small business or even a small house. A wireless surveillance camera system will allow you to install 4 wireless cameras to digitally record all the activity in your business. These types of systems come with a DVR with full networking capability and use a GeoVision DVR card, which allows you to view live video surveillance on the Internet. This type of system is designed strictly for indoor use only, and the perfect video recording system for smaller areas. You now have the flexibility to leave and still record activity and store and retrive for later viewing. Many businesses have a panic button they press when they see a would be thief in their store and now have the proof stored if needing to use in it in court.
For Personal Home Surveillance Camera System, there is the 4 Channel Wireless VISEC Surveillance System that is perfect for monitoring 4 rooms in a small house. The cameras that come with type of system work in day or night because of the high quality digital CCD chips that automatically switches from color to black & white in low light conditions. This type of a system requires what known as a ‘quad’. A quad is an accessory to your surveillance system that splits a video monitor into 4 screens. Without a quad viewing would only be able possible with one camera at a time. This type of a system also comes with a GrabBee II. It allows wireless or hidden cameras to connect your camera(s) to your computer. The GrabBee II is the bridge between the wireless or hidden camera and your computer. This device converts analog video signal to digital through a USB port.
Designed For Simple Personal Use, there is a camera called the Cyber Eye. This infrared B/W digital surveillance camera takes pictures automatically whenever someone moves in front of it and then digitally stores the pictures within the micro-camera. You can then extract the images later on just by plugging the camera into your TV/VCR to either view or record. This type of camera is great for catching someone snooping around your house. It is so small and compact you can even put it in your car and aim it out the window. This personal surveillance camera works by changes in the picture and not motion. Video images can be even taken through glass and the wireless surveillance camera will still work like a charm. The pictures are taken at 1-60 second intervals (UP TO 680 pictures). Video images will even have the time and date stamp added to each picture.
For Outdoor Surveillance Cameras, Dome cameras are used in many places including retail stores, restaurants, casinos and apartment buildings. You can even see them at your local McDonalds restaurants. Dome cameras are simply board cameras built into a weatherproof dome housing. In addition to these surveillance cameras being weatherproof, many of these types of dome surveillance cameras are vandal-proof dome and built with protective casing that can withstand the direct hit of a sledgehammer or other brute force means to disable it. Dome Surveillance Cameras are generally wired and can be connected to a Digital DVR to record all suspicious activities.
Surveillance Camera Recording – One of the most important pieces of a surveillance system is the surveillance video recorder. Whether you have one, four, eight or sixteen cameras you have to take what those cameras see and store that video for reference or possible evidence. Obviously DVR system can record much longer than old style VCR tapes. Generally these recorders come in 4, 8 and 16 channel models. Channels refer to amount of cameras that can be attached for recording. Some units are small, some large and have different features. One of the best DVR portable surveillance camera recorders perfect for body worn & covert applications and fits easily into a purse, pocket or backpack is the DVR-9800 touted as the Worlds Smallest Wearable DVR Recorder. This recorder can record a whopping 40 hours of video and about 910 hours of audio.
This article gives you the basics on what to look for when shopping for a surveillance camera system for either personal or business use. In a future article, we will discuss detailed directions on how to connect and set up the most common types of surveillance camera systems.
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Wireless Hidden Cameras and Maybe More!
You are thinking about purchasing a wireless hidden camera but, like many people, are afraid of electronic products. You keep reading about words like “lux” and “camera resolution” and “line of sight” — do I really have to know what these mean? And, isn’t the wireless hidden camera hard to install?
The answer is NO and I’m going to tell you how easy it is to install and use your wireless hidden camera. I will also explain some of the “difficult” terms in plain, understandable English so you won’t be intimidated any more.
The best thing about a wireless hidden camera is just that — it’s WIRELESS! You won’t have to run any wires through your walls or under your rug.
These wireless cameras are called “hidden” because they are built into an existing everyday object that you see in your home or office. Most of these objects are functioning electrical appliances, e.g. clock radios, cordless phones, and even computer speakers.
Each object contains a wireless camera. The camera will function as long as the object is plugged into the wall outlet. For example, even when you turn your radio off, the camera is still working! These objects look natural when plugged into the wall, so your camera remains hidden and unsuspected.
Don’t forget — the object in which your camera is hidden is usually portable, e.g. clock radio. So even if you disconnect the plug from the wall — perhaps to move the object — you can still use your wireless camera with batteries. The batteries work for about 4-8 hours, so it’s best that you have another set handy or use a battery charger for a fresh supply.
You want to purchase a wireless surveillance camera system that is “Plug and Play.” This means just what it says — plug it in and begin using it! Your wireless hidden camera comes with 2 main components: 1) a camera and a transmitter connected inside an everyday object; and 2) a receiver which is attached to your VCR or TV. That’s all there is to it — you’re now ready to record!
Record what? There are unlimited uses for your wireless hidden camera.
How about as a hidden nanny camera — you can watch your children while they are being cared for by their nanny or baby sitter. What about your mother or father who is getting up in years and needs special care. Wouldn’t it be great to know who’s on your property all the time or even at the door? And how about your children — you can keep an eye on your tots with your hidden nanny camera to make sure they don’t leave the house or property. And, now with your small security camera, you will know the real time your teens return home at night!
By using wireless hidden cameras in the workplace, you will always be aware of what’s going on in your store, office and warehouse. Just set up a hidden camera to view your cash register, entrance and exit doors, loading dock, or just about anywhere.
All this and much more can be viewed from your VCR tape or live on your TV. And, with special software, you can watch what’s going on in your home or business on your computer screen, even when you’re away.
Should you choose a Black and White (B/W) or Color Camera? That is a personal choice that you should make. A Black and White camera does better as a low light wireless camera than a color camera because it has a lower lux. Color Cameras, however, would be more helpful to the police in identifying the burglar, shoplifter, assailant, etc. by giving a better description — for example, “the man with red hair in the green and yellow shirt.”
Finally, I promised to explain some technical camera terms. Here are some of the general questions you might ask about your wireless hidden camera:
• What is a Wireless Camera? A wireless camera consists of a camera with a transmitter attached to it and a receiver which connects to a VCR or a TV.
• What is “Plug and Play”? Plug and Play is the easy way to install your wireless surveillance camera system. Just connect the power supply (either AC for wall power or the battery pack) to your camera. Place the object containing the camera to show what you want to review. Connect the receiver to your TV or VCR using the red and yellow RCA cable from the receiver. You are now set up.
• What is a Transmitter? A transmitter is a device that converts video signals into radio frequency signals and transmits them as radio waves.
• What is a Receiver? A receiver is an electronic device that receives radio signals from a transmitter and decodes the signal for use as pictures on your VCR or TV.
• What is “Lux”? Lux is a method of measuring a camera’s sensitivity to light, i.e. it is the amount of light the camera needs to provide an image. The lower the number, the less light the camera needs to reproduce a clear image. A Black and White camera usually has a lower lux than a color camera. It will hold an image longer than a color camera. For example, a B/W camera with a .05 lux will be better in low light than a color camera with a .5 lux.
• What is the meaning of “camera resolution” for security cameras? Camera resolution is a measure of the clearness of a security camera. It’s determined by the number of horizontal video lines that the camera must have to reproduce the correct image. The higher the resolution number, the sharper the image.
• What is a Monitor? A monitor is what you use to view your camera image. The monitor could be a TV, CCTV (closed circuit TV) or even your computer screen.
• What is “Line of Sight”? Line of Sight means that the video signal travels from the transmitter in your camera to a dedicated receiver (e.g. VCR or TV) placed a certain distance away with no obstructions or interference between the two. The signal can go through walls and floors. Low Power Cameras usually have a line of sight of 700 feet. However, you can upgrade to a High Power Camera which has a line of sight of 3,500 feet.
So there you have it — you don’t have to be a camera buff to install or operate your wireless hidden camera. Just plug and play!
Don’t Become the Next Crime Statistic! A wireless hidden camera will show you
what’s REALLY happening in your home or business.
Consumer Reports – Digital Cameras
Digital cameras, which employ reusable memory cards instead of film, give you far more creative control than film cameras can. With a digital camera, you can transfer shots to your computer, then crop, adjust color and contrast, and add textures and other special effects. Final results can be made into cards or T-shirts, or sent via e-mail, all using the software that usually comes with the camera. You can make prints on a color inkjet printer, or by dropping off the memory card at one of a growing number of photofinishers. You can upload the file to a photo-sharing Web site for storage, viewing, and sharing with others.
Like camcorders, digital cameras have LCD viewers. Some camcorders can be used to take still pictures, but a typical camcorder’s resolution is no match for a good still camera’s.
WHAT’S AVAILABLE
The leading brands are Canon, Fujifilm, HP, Kodak, Olympus, and Sony; other brands come from consumer-electronics, computer, and traditional camera and film companies.
Digital cameras are categorized by how many pixels, or picture elements, the image sensor contains. One megapixel equals 1 million picture elements. A 3-megapixel camera can make excellent 8x10s and pleasing 11x14s. There are also 4- to 8-megapixel models, including point-and-shoot ones; these are well suited for making larger prints or for maintaining sharpness if you want to use only a portion of the original image. Professional Digital cameras use as many as 14 megapixels.
Price range: $200 to $400 for 3 megapixels; $250 to $400 for 4 and 5 megapixels; $300 to $1,000 for 6 to 8 megapixels.
IMPORTANT FEATURES
Most Digital cameras are highly automated, with features such as automatic exposure control (which manages the shutter speed, aperture, or both according to available light) and autofocus.
Instead of film, digital cameras typically record their shots onto flash-memory cards. CompactFlash and SecureDigital (SD) are the most widely used. Once quite expensive, such cards have tumbled in price–a 128-megabyte card can now cost less than $50. Other types of memory cards used by cameras include Memory Stick, Smart Media and xD-picture card. A few cameras, mainly some Sony models, use 3 1/4-inch CD-R or CD-RW discs.
To save images, you transfer them to a computer, typically by connecting the camera to the computer’s USB or FireWire port or inserting the memory card into a special reader. Some printers can take memory cards and make prints without putting the images on a computer first. Image-handling software, such as Adobe Photoshop Elements, Jasc Paint Shop, Microsoft Picture It, and ACDSee, lets you size, touch up, and crop digital images using your computer. Most digital cameras work with both Windows and Macintosh machines.
The file format commonly used for photos is JPEG, which is a compressed format. Some cameras can save photos in uncompressed TIFF format, but this setting yields enormous files. Other high-end cameras have a RAW file format, which yields the image data with no processing from the camera.
Digital cameras typically have both an optical viewfinder and a small color LCD viewer. LCD viewers are very accurate in framing the actual image you get–better than most of the optical viewfinders–but they use more battery power and may be hard to see in bright sunlight. You can also view shots you’ve already taken on the LCD viewer. Many digital cameras provide a video output, so you can view your pictures on a TV set.
Certain cameras let you record an audio clip with a picture. But these clips use additional storage space. Some allow you to record limited video, but the frame rate is slow and the resolution poor.
A zoom lens provides flexibility in framing shots and closes the distance between you and your subject–ideal if you want to quickly switch to a close shot. The typical 3x zoom on mainstream cameras goes from a moderately wide-angle view (35mm) to moderate telephoto (105mm). You can find cameras with extended zoom ranges between 8x and 12x, giving added versatility for outdoor photography. Other new cameras go down to 24 or 28 mm at the wide-angle end, making it easier to take in an entire scene in close quarters, such as a crowded party.
Optical zooms are superior to digital zooms, which magnify the center of the frame without actually increasing picture detail, resulting in a somewhat coarser view.
Sensors in digital cameras are typically about as light-sensitive as ISO 100 film, though some let you increase that setting. (At ISO 100, you’ll likely need to use a flash indoors and in low outdoor light.) A camera’s flash range tells you how far from the camera the flash will provide proper exposure: If the subject is out of range, you’ll know to close the distance. But digital cameras can tolerate some underexposure before the image suffers noticeably.
Red-eye reduction shines a light toward your subject just before the main flash. (A camera whose flash unit is farther from the lens reduces the risk of red eye. Computer editing of the image may also correct red eye.) With automatic flash mode, the camera fires the flash whenever the light entering the camera registers as insufficient. A few new cameras have built-in red-eye correction capability.
Some cameras that have powerful telephoto lenses now come with image stabilizers. These compensate for camera shake, letting you use a slower shutter speed than you otherwise could for following movement. But an image stabilizer won’t compensate for the motion of subjects.
Most new 6- to 8-megapixel cameras come with full manual controls, including independent controls for shutter and aperture. That gives serious shutterbugs control over depth of field, shooting action, or shooting scene with tricky lighting.
HOW TO CHOOSE
The first step is to determine how you will use the camera most of the time. Consider these two questions:
How much flexibility to enlarge images do you need? If you mainly want to make 4×6 snapshots, a camera with a 3- or 4-megapixel resolution will be fine. Such a camera will also make an 8×10 print of an entire image without alteration that looks as sharp as one from a 6- or 8-megapixel model. But to enlarge the image more or enlarge only part of it, you’ll want a 6- to 8-megapixel camera.
How much control do you want over exposure and composition? Cameras meant for automatic point-and-shoot photos, with a 3x-zoom lens, will serve snap shooters as well as dedicate hobbyists much of the time. The full-featured cameras in the 6- to 8-megapixel range offer capabilities that more-dedicated photographers will want to have. Two of the more important capabilities are a zoom range of 5x to 10x or more, which lets you bring distant outdoor subjects close and also lets you shoot candid portraits without getting right in your subject’s face, and a full complement of manual controls that you determine the shutter speed and lens opening. ‘
Once you’ve established the performance priorities that you need from a camera, you can narrow your choices further by considering these convenience factors:
Size and weight. The smallest, lightest models aren’t necessarily inexpensive 3-megapixel cameras. And the biggest and heaviest aren’t necessarily found at the high end. If possible, try cameras at the store before you buy. That way, you’ll know which one fits you hand best and which can be securely gripped. In our tests, we have found that some of the smallest don’t leave much room even for small fingers.
Battery type and life. All digital cameras can run on rechargeable batteries of one of two types: an expensive battery pack or a set of AA batteries. In our tests of the cameras, neither battery type had a clear performance advantage. The best-performing cameras offer upward of 300 shots on a charge, while the worst manage only about 50. We think it’s more convenient to own a camera that accepts AA batteries. You can buy economical, rechargeable cells (plus a charger) and drop in a set of disposable lithium or alkaline batteries if the rechargeable run down in the middle of the day’s shooting.
Camera speed. With point-and-shoot cameras like the ones we tested, you must wait after each shot as the camera processes the image. Most models let you shoot an image every few seconds, but a few make you wait 5 seconds or more. They may frustrate you when you’re taking photos in sequence.
Your other cameras. If you’re adding a camera to your lineup or trading up to a more versatile model, look first for one that’s compatible with the other cameras. If it is, you can share memory cards and batteries. Designs within a camera brand line are often similar. So staying wit the brand you have lowers the learning curve on the new camera for family members who switch between cameras.
Cheap Digital Cameras- What Do You Really Need?
A cheap digital camera is what everyone is looking for, but what is really important is that you know what your needs are before you buy anything. Imagine spending $150 and feeling great about the deal you got, but you then realize that this camera is not enough for which you need! Basically, we need to take a look and match the price to what your usage is going to be. Here are some of the things you need to know about in order to choose the right cheap digital camera.
Camera manufacturers all talk about the megapixel (MP) as a rating of the quality of the picture, and how good a camera is, but the mega pixel as a measurement of the quality of the camera is actually not a good point of measure.
The megapixel tells you only how many megapixels the camera has. The reason camera salesman talk about the megapixel is because it’s an easy point of reference to try to upsell you. The reality is that the lens quality and the light sensors make a more significant impact than the megapixels. The thing is, it’s hard for a consumer to understand all of the differences between lens quality and light sensors. That’s why they all push the mega pixel. With technology improvements, the mega pixels keep getting higher, but that may not be what you really need. And is that all you are measuring your camera purchase with?
For most general users, you will never print a picture larger than 8×10. The 3.1 mega pixel prints a perfect 8×10, but the new standard is 7-8 mega pixels. Unless you are a pro photographer, then anything over 3.1 is great. So, instead of spending bucks on a seven or eight mega pixel camera, you can get anything from 3.1 on up.
The next thing you wanted to is pick the right physical configuration of the camera. You may be spending more than you need if you buy more camera than you can handle. The pro models are very cool, but be realistic about what you are going to do with the camera! How many times have you purchase something with all kinds of bells and whistles, but never learn how to use them, or had a difficult time using them? Be honest with yourself. If you’re just a point and shoot kind of person, and keep with the simple camera.
A DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) typically has a larger body and a detachable lens. The DSLR is usually a higher end camera, and has more features and better components. Pro’s typically buy a DSLR. For many of you reading this article, the DSLR camera is more camera than you’ll ever need.
Here are the pros, the DSLR will take better pictures, but you will have to learn more. They are not point and click.
Compact cameras (“Point-and-shoot” cameras) are smaller, the lens is usually attached, and the lens actually retracts back into the camera base. This is the camera that is directly marketed to the consumer market. The cameras are made with less expensive ingredients and then a DSLR, but these point and shoot cameras are much more affordable. Many of the cameras you see advertised and in electronic stores in the few hundred dollar range are compact cameras.
The pros: The prices are much better, and affordable. Cons-the camera may not be repairable and goes out of date quickly. However, in many cases by the time the camera breaks it is out of date and the costs of purchasing a new one is actually cheaper.
Prosumer is a camera that occupies the middleground. These cameras have the benefits of both styles. They come with the better prices than the Pro camera, but have marginally better components than the point and shoot cameras. Basically it is a pro camera for the mass market consumer.
Take a few minutes and think about what your needs are before you buy your cheap digital camera. If you are taking quick pictures for a photo album, then anything on the market from a mega pixel standpoint is fine. If you are taking quick pictures, then a point and shoot should work for you. The other benefit of the point-and-shoot camera is that they are smaller, and can fit easily in your pocket or purse. Knowing that the mega pixel range these days is more than the average person needs, you can find gread prices and cheap digital camera deals with lower mega pixel cameras.
Buying a Digital Camera
Family and friends can be pretty far flung these days, so how do you keep in touch? Snail mail and phoning are good options, but it’s fun to be able to share pictures. With the advent of digital cameras, it’s easy to post pictures on a blog or website, or send pictures via email.
Of course, film cameras will work, as you can scan and convert pictures to digital files, but the easiest way to send pictures quickly and cheaply is to use a digital camera.
How To Find What’s Best For YOU When Buying A Digital Camera
There are all kinds of digital cameras available these days, so the trick is to find the one that suits your needs and budget. If you are buying your first digital camera, the lingo and technology are a bit different than for film cameras, so before shopping take time to learn a little and figure out what you’d like to buy.
First, what kind of photographer are you? Do you like total control over the picture taking process, or would you rather just aim the camera and push the shutter button? Then it’s also helpful to decide what you want to do with your pictures. Do you just want to put them online or send them via email, or do you want to be able to print them, and if so, how large do you want your prints?
If photography isn’t your passion, and you just want to have pictures to share, buying a simple point-and-shoot digital camera is probably best. It has automatic settings, so all you have to do is aim the camera, press the shutter and viola! Instant picture!
However, if you prefer more control over the picture taking process, try buying a mid-range digital camera. There is a wide range in both price and features. For the more serious hobby photographer, there are “prosumer” cameras midway between point-and-shoot cameras and digital SLR cameras. They offer better lens quality and usually more features than a point-and-shoot, though those little cameras can come pretty loaded these days!
Digital SLR cameras are top of the line and more expensive. These work more like traditional cameras, having a body with detachable lens. This gives you more options with being able to change lens, but it’s also much more expensive. Just one lens can cost as much as a point-and-shoot digital camera! There’s also usually a steeper learning curve to figure out how to use all the options on a digital SLR camera.
However, if you’re buying your first digital camera, intermediate, “prosumer” and digital SLR cameras probably aren’t the best choice. All the settings and features can be a little overwhelming for the beginner, and your expensive camera may end up collecting dust somewhere. Try a low to midrange camera first and get a feel for digital cameras and what features are most important to you. Then when you’re ready to move up and buy a better digital camera, you’ll have a better idea of what to look for before you lay out your hard earned cash!
What To Look For When You’re Ready To Buy A Digital Camera
You can buy digital cameras in all sorts of places these days, from fancy department stores to discount stores, photography/camera shops and many stores online. While you can sometimes find great deals on-line, if this is your first digital camera, go to shops and look at different cameras if at all possible. It helps to pick it up and get the feel of the camera in your hand to see if it’s comfortable and the controls are easy to use, and you can check out what features it has and how they work.
But what exactly are you looking for?
A pixel makes your picture….
One of the first things to check out when buying a digital camera is the MEGAPIXELS. A pixel is a single dot in a graphics image. A megapixel is equivalent to one million pixels. A 1-megapixel camera would produce an image roughly 1200 pixels wide by 900 pixels high, a 3 megapixel would be 2048 x 1536 megapixels, and so on. Higher megapixels mean better resolution, but aren’t the whole picture. The main thing to keep in mind is the more megapixels, the bigger image you can print.
Approximate Megapixels vs. Print Size
2 Megapixels prints well up to 4×6 inches
3 Megapixels prints well up to 5×7 inches
4 Megapixels prints well up to 6×8 inches
6 Megapixels prints well up to 7×10 inches
8 Megapixels prints well up to 10×14 inches
12 Megapixels prints well up to 16×24 inches
For email, websites and printing snapshots, a 3 to 5-megapixel camera is a good choice. If you want to make high quality 8×10 prints or larger, you need more megapixels. Higher megapixels also allow you to crop down to a smaller portion of the picture while still retaining sharpness in prints.
One other thing to keep in mind when considering megapixels and resolution, be sure you are getting optical resolution. This is the actual number of megapixels the camera records. Some cameras offer interpolated resolution to get bigger pictures from the same number of megapixels by using software algorithms to determine what color pixels to add, so the picture becomes bigger at the expense of clarity.
Opt for optical…
Digital cameras have two kinds of zoom, optical and digital. In this case, focus on the optical zoom. It’s the one that actually uses the lens’ optics to bring the subject closer. The higher the number, the further away you can “pull in” your subject. The digital zoom merely takes the original information and makes it bigger, and once again, clarity is sacrificed. Most serious photographers turn off digital zoom. Stick to optical!
For Your Viewing Pleasure…
Digital cameras commonly use an LCD screen instead of a viewfinder to focus on your subject, though some come equipped with both. Check the size of the screen when buying a digital camera to be sure you can comfortably see your subject. It’s also really handy to have a flip screen that allows you to hold your camera low or high, and still be able to see what’s on the screen.
Fun features…
Many digital cameras offer settings for such things as burst shooting mode, which is handy if you want to take pictures of moving subjects. The camera shoots a series of pictures without pause, then writes the files to memory. Other features allow for manually changing settings, special effects, short digital movie files, using an external flash, and much more. Look over several different cameras, decide what features you just have to have, and which are on the “nice to have but not vital” list. No one camera will do everything well.
Get the Picture…
You’ve got to get the pictures out of the camera to share them. Usually the files are downloaded to your computer through a USB port, so make sure your computer has one. Also, keep in mind when choosing a camera, the more megapixels, the bigger the files. You’ve got to store those files somewhere, so how much memory is available on your computer? Does it have a CD burner?
However, you can still buy a digital camera even if you don’t have a computer. Many photo labs, even in places like Walmart or Kmart, have machines with the capability of making prints and/or photo CD’s from memory cards, and will make a disk of the files, sort of like digital negatives. There’s also the option of buying a photo printer with a docking station for your camera. Just plug the camera into the docking station, and bypass the need for a computer to print.
Cash After Camera
When buying your digital camera, keep some cash in reserve, because there are two more important purchases you need to make.
1. Memory – The digital camera’s equivalent of film, the amount of memory determines how many pictures you can take. Different cameras use different types of memory, so the first step is to find out what your camera uses. The most popular types are: Secure Digital (SD), CompactFlash (CF), SmartMedia (SM), Memory Stick (MS), MultiMediaCard (MMC), and xD-Picture Card (xD).
Cameras are usually packaged with a small MB-sized card. A second card of 64 MB is good, but of course the more MB and the more cards, the more pictures you can take before having to download and erase the images. The different cards are NOT interchangeable, so be sure to buy the right kind for your camera!
2. Battery – There’s nothing more frustrating than being in the middle of snapping pictures and the battery dies. Get extras. It’s worth the expense to have a second battery charged and waiting should the one in your camera lose power. The rechargeable ones are more expensive, but the ability to use them over and over makes them worth the initial outlay of cash.
That’s The Total Package!
There you have the basics for choosing a digital camera. Decide what kind of pictures you are likely to take, what size prints you want to make, how much zoom, and are there any extras you can’t live without? Look for the camera that most closely matches your list in your price range, buy a bigger memory card and an extra battery set, and you’re good to go!
Have fun sharing those pictures with friends and family!
Choosing the Right Hidden Camera or Spy Camera
Not sure what kind of hidden camera that you need? Hopefully this article will help.
Monitoring a room using video capturing equipment is fairly easy. There is a wide variety of equipment on the market to accomplish this. Listed below are some of the different types of equipment used to covertly capture video.
Miniature Wireless cameras
Hidden wireless cameras
Hidden IP cameras
Miniature Hard wired cameras
Hidden hard wired cameras
Motion activated all-in-one recording systems
Motion activated still shot cameras
Miniature Wireless cameras
Miniature Wireless cameras can be a suitable choice given the right situation. A mini wireless camera will need power to operate the camera, whether it is battery or plugged directly into the wall. Most mini wireless cameras will run on a standard 9 volt battery. The battery will last between 4 and 8 hours depending both on the battery that you choose and the camera specifications. I generally recommend plugging it into the wall when possible.
Some other considerations are where to conceal the camera and where/ what to record on or view the camera on. The camera could be easily hidden in a plant or you could build something to conceal the camera. Most mini wireless cameras have a pin hole lens so you can easily hide them in a box or possibly in a book or anything else that you can think of. You could even set the camera inside of an air vent looking out. Recording is probably the biggest obstacle. The receiver can be plugged into a TV for viewing live. However, If you cannot sit and watch all the time there is a good chance that you will miss all the action. You could also plug the receiver into a VCR to record onto a VHS tape. The problem there is that you have to find a place to hide the VCR and you can only record as long as the VHS tape will allow. For example, you start recording at eight o’clock in the morning when you leave for work. Your partner is due home at Two o’clock. If your tape will only hold six hours you are going to miss what you were trying get catch on tape. You could also you a digital video recorder with motion activation. This is probably a better choice, but still has problems. A Motion activated recorder works great with a hard wired camera, but has problems when it comes to wireless cameras. The way a motion activated DVR works is that it can sense the pixelation change coming through the camera when something moves and knows to record. All wireless cameras have interference. There is nothing you can do about it. It’s just the nature of the beast. When the DVR senses the change in pixels caused by interference it thinks it is motion and ends up recording almost all of the time.
There are better options that I will cover in the paragraphs to follow.
Hidden wireless cameras
Hidden wireless cameras, also know as a nanny cam, makes things a little easier because the camera comes pre hidden. You can get wireless cameras built into just about any thing you can imagine from televisions to air fresheners. While these cameras do make it easier you will still have the same concerns with recording as you would with a standard wireless camera.
Hard wired miniature cameras
Hard wired miniature cameras are definitely more reliable than wireless but still pose some problems. As with the wireless camera you still have to hide the camera and find a way to record or view the camera. The main problem with the hard wired camera is that you have to run a cable from the camera to the recording device. In some situations this may not be a problem, but in most situations it is not practical.
Recording is easier with a hard wired camera because you can use a motion activated DVR effectively. For instance in the example given for wireless cameras you could start recording when you leave for work and the motion activated DVR would not record anything until it saw movement in the cameras range. Most motion activated DVRs can be adjusted to record for a very long time. Pre hidden hard wired cameras can also be purchased.
Hidden IP cameras
Hidden IP cameras are similar to a hidden wireless camera in that they come pre concealed inside of many everyday items and they are also wireless. That is where the similarity ends. With an IP camera the video signal is sent through the electrical system of the house. The receiver is then plugged into a wall outlet near your computer and connected to a USB port on your computer. Using the software that comes with the system you can then view and record the images on your computer. An IP camera will also enable you to view your camera from anywhere in the world with internet access as long as the computer with camera connected to it is also connected to the computer.
The one drawback to an IP camera is that the software is not hidden on the computer. So, if your partner sees the software on the computer you may have some explaining to do.
Hidden still shot cameras
Hidden still shot cameras may be a good option depending on the circumstances. One of the best brands that I have found is the Home Guard. It is motion activated and records pictures at an adjustable frame rate when it senses motion. You can adjust the frame rate from one picture every second when motion is detected to ten pictures every second. I normally suggest setting it to take one picture every second.
There are no wires or cables, it records onto an internal chip and saves the images for future viewing. The Home Guard looks like an air freshener so it will “fit in” in any environment. Most of my clients that use the home Guard will take a sticker off of another air freshener product such as Glade or Air Fresh and place it on the home guard to make it more believable.
Motion activated all-in-one hidden camera
Motion activated all-in-one hidden camera/recording systems are my hidden camera of choice. They come in a very large selection of products making it easy to select one that will work in almost any situation.
These devices are totally self contained. They can be easily deployed and take away all of the worries that you may have with other choices that you may be considering to capture video.
The all-in-one units are motion activated and require no cables, receivers or external recording devices. Simply place the device where you want it and let it go to work. You can then view the video that it recorded right off of the unit itself or remove the SD card and view the video on a computer.
This is by far the easiest and most reliable of the options available to secretly capture video.
Using Security Cameras for Home Protection
Crime continues to rise not just in a physical sense but also in the world of white-collar business. Security cameras have become a worthy ally to many in the detection and prevention of crime. A simple observation of the city will tell you security cameras are everywhere these days.
Once used in their infancy as a traffic-monitoring device, remote security cameras are becoming the weapons of choice in the war against terrorism and crime around the world.
Wireless Security Cameras
If you need to partially conceal your cameras from view, wireless security cameras are the way to go. Wireless security cameras have become very popular because they can literally be put anywhere you want since you don’t have to worry about wires.
Additionally, wireless security cameras are becoming more and more affordable as the technology makes leaps and bounds- both in terms of the cutting edge new features and in the manufacturing and design process.
Home Security Cameras
Like most technology, the cost of home security has come down in recent years and the outdoor security cameras are no exception. With the right set-up the signal from your security cameras can be fed to your television for convenience – you don’t have to go to a special monitor to see the picture.
The best way that parents can protect their children 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and still have a life is to install security cameras as part of their security systems.
Home security cameras won’t just catch the worst possible acts of child violence and abuse, but also irresponsible babysitters who may not be cruel but are far too careless to be given the responsibility of watching your child.
Security Camera Location
To ensure the most effective surveillance of your home, the placement of your security cameras is of utmost importance. The proper placement of security cameras coupled with a recorder, permits you to maintain a record of many activities in your home, and you will be able to easily identify a person by the clothes he or she is wearing.
Don’t Bust the Budget
For those who are on a budget and can’t afford or don’t want to spend the time setting up a security system or hire someone else to do it, there are temporary measures you can use. You can consider using fake security cameras for the job if money is a major consideration in your home security budget, and you just can’t afford the real thing yet.
Whatever the variety and model that exist in the market for real surveillance cameras, dummy security cameras are there with the same exact look and feel.
Dummy security cameras can be fitted to the interior of your home as well as mounted on the exterior. You can use dummy cameras in various places on your lawn or patio, which can act as a sort of “scarecrow” for would-be thieves.
Out Door Cameras
For the best security system possible, you can have outdoor security cameras installed. Your outdoor security cameras can come with sunshades to protect the equipment from too much sunlight during daytime.
A large number of exterior cameras are weather proof, waterproof and some are even “hammer” proof. Some of the more sophisticated outdoor security cameras have an infrared option, which enables you to see what’s going on in the dark.
Security at School
The surveillance cameras allow school security personnel to do more job-specific work, which saves money in the long run since the mundane tasks will be performed by the security system. As mentioned, one of the best features about wireless security cameras are that they can be easily installed almost anywhere.
The cameras deter crime and may lead some students to confess to infractions that weren’t even caught on the security cameras.
Remote Cameras
Furthermore, remote security cameras are being used more and more to watch the habits of people in crowded areas, subway stations, airports and others to try to stop a terrorist attack before it happens. Especially active in purchasing business security cameras are large casinos such as in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.
In conclusion there is no doubt that society is still getting used to the presence of security cameras and there are many that don’t like them. However home and office security cameras and basic surveillance tips will greatly improve the safety of you and your loved ones at home and on the job.