Some of you have equipment and some of you don’t, so I’ll start with the different types of cameras available and my picks for each category. Digital cameras can basically be lumped into two categories; Point-and-shoot and Digital SLR (DSLR).

Point-and-Shoot

A point-and-shoot camera, also called a compact camera, is a still camera designed primarily for simple operation. Most of them use auto focus or focus free lenses for focusing, automatic systems for setting the exposure options, and have flash units built in. Point-and-shoots are by far the best selling type of camera because they are designed to well…point-and-shoot. You basically turn it on and push the button on the right that’s been in the same position since the dawn of photography (that’s an exaggeration ☺). While some do offer “advanced” features, they are not known for being the most user friendly in these modes. Below are three categories of Point-and-Shoot cameras:

///Ultra Compact Digital Cameras

Ultra compact digital cameras are capable of taking quality images. They are very small, lightweight, easy to use and convenient to carry. Some models have fewer features than compact cameras, such as manual controls and a viewfinder. Buttons and dials are small though usually work well.

My picks in this category:

• Sony Cyber-Shot DSC W130
• Canon PowerShot SD790 IS
  

Consumer-level digital cameras are compact, lightweight and great for point-and-shoot photo taking. They have fully automatic and scene modes; some have semi-automatic and manual controls. All but the cheapest provide very good image quality.

My picks in this category:

• Canon PowerShot A720 IS
• Canon PowerShot A590 IS
  

“Prosumer” digital cameras are geared to advanced amateurs with skill levels between a professional and consumer. They sport high quality lenses and advanced features for creative control. Some have long telephoto zooms lenses while others start at wide angle.

A few have a zoom range from wide to super telephoto. Most advanced digital cameras accept accessories and add-ons including converter lenses, filters, remote controls and external flashes.

My picks in this category:

• Sony Cyber-Shot DSC H50
• Canon PowerShot SX110 IS
• Leica C-Lux 3
  

Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR)

DSLR cameras, used by professionals and photo enthusiasts, are top-of-the-line. They have outstanding optics, produce high resolution images and accept interchangeable lenses and sophisticated accessories.

They perform much better in low light than consumer cameras that have small sensors. DSLRs function automatically but also have a full range of manual controls. You can buy only a DSLR body, and purchase lenses separately.

Don’t let the words “Professionals” and “top of the line” scare you away because the price range starts around $500 for entry-level photographers and goes up into the five and six figure range for professionals. So as you can see, there’s a large range.

My Picks in this category (each pick is considered "entry level." If you would like a more higher end suggestion, just drop me a comment and I would be happy to respond):

///Disclaimer: I'm a Canon man. I have nothing against the other DSLR manufactures like Nikon or Sony, it's just what I saw to be the best at every level in both body and lens choice. My picks below do include other brands besides Canon, but I must warn you, I don't know as much about them as Canon.

• Canon EOS Rebel XS kit with Canon 18-55mm IS lens
• Nikon D60 kit with 18-55mm VR lens
• Sony Alpha A200 kit with 18-70mm lens

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It's important to note that with any camera there will be accessories that you will want to pick up. Such as memory cards, extra batteries, a case to protect it, etc. You really have to sit down and determine how in depth you want to get, how much time you want to spend on your photography and what type of photos you want/will be taking. If you want to take casual photos every now and again then a point-and-shoot is the way to go. But if you want to put the time and money into capturing great photos then a DLSR or a high end Point-and-Shoot is the way to go. If you have any questions, comment below or send me an email at kgorman@trclife.com.