Tech Team: In the Trenches

July 15, 2004 Volume 2 Issue 5

Table of Contents


Digital cameras: Click it, print it, upload it

If you're listing homes online, you need a digital camera. Period. But thanks to recent technological advancements, today's cameras are coming down in price. While the new offerings such as 8 Mega-Pixel cameras still cost a lot, the "old" 5 Mega-Pixel's offer great features and enough pixels to allow cropping and enlarging up to an 8-by-10 size. (A pixel is the smallest unit of the picture. The more pixels, the clearer the photo remains if it's enlarged.) Many even allow you to create small movies and make your own virtual tours. Some even fit into your pocket.

Camera features can vary tremendously and you'll make an intelligent purchase decision by deciding upfront what features you want or need. To read a list of things to consider when purchasing along with a feature-by-feature comparison on three common models, click here.

Here are some things to consider when you compare camera features:

  1. Can the pictures be resized and the resolution changed to meet e-mail and MLS standards, or do you need additional software? If you need additional software, is it included in the camera purchase or must you keep shopping?
  2. How long do the batteries last? Are they rechargeable? Many cameras also use odd-sized batteries. Does the model you're considering use something common that can be purchased quickly at a local store? If the batteries are rechargeable, is a car adapter available?
  3. How complicated is the camera? Can you take basic pictures within 10 minutes of removing it from the box?
  4. Once you narrow your search down to a specific make of camera, search the Internet for forums that review each of its features. Check also for reviews on specific cameras at sites such as http://www.steves-digicams.com
  5. If you're planning to buy the camera online, stop by a local camera store to hold and feel the camera.
  6. Also take a minute to test drive a lower-priced camera and compare features. You may be able to save money by realistically considering what you hope to accomplish.
Here's an example of three top-selling digital cameras and a feature-by-feature comparison:

  Canon Power Shot G5 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-V1 Nikon Coolpix 5400
Effective Pixels 5.0 Mega Pixels 5.0 Mega Pixels 5.0 Mega Pixels
Lens (35mm format equivalent) 35-140 mm f/2-3 lens 34-136 mm f/2.8-4 lens 28-116mm f/2.8-4.6 lens
Interfaces USB, Audio/Video Output, CF card USB 2.0, Audio/Video Output USB, Audio/Video
Digital Zoom Up to 4X Optical and 4X Digital for a combined 16X zoom 4X Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens Up to 4X
LCD Monitor 1.8 inch 1.5 inch 1.5 inch
Memory Source CF Card Memory Stick CF Card
Dimensions (WxHxD) 4.8 x 2.9 x 2.8 inches 4 x 2.6 x 2.2 inches 4.3 x 2.9 x 2.7 inches
Total Weight 15.7 oz 10.9 oz 12.5 oz
Battery Li-ion Info Lithium Li-ion
Price $650 Street with 32 MB Card $630 Street with 32 MB Card $600 Street with 16 MB Card

Disclaimer: Product specifications are provided by the manufacturer and retailers, and may not be consistent with real-world performance. User experiences may vary. The Tech Team does not endorse or recommend any particular hardware or software; the items included in this feature are listed solely for your reference and personal inquiry.

Copyright 2004 FAR