What level of camera do I need?

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I'm a casual photographer who wants to get into using ,my first digital camera. My pictures will remain in the realm of my family, vacation, parties/events. In all likelihood the majority of my pictures will be printed in 4x6 format, with a number in 5x7 and very few in 8x10. All this said, is there a reason for me to go with one of the latest 3 Megapixel cameras, or would this just be overkill?

Thanks in advance.

-- Michael S. Gero (mgero@videotron.ca), July 21, 2000

Answers

This is obviously a personal decision based on budget and usage but let me offer the observation that your first digital camera will probably change your whole perspective on photography. Although you are currently a casual shooter, things may change once you experience the immediate feedback and no penalty shooting aspects of digital photography. I wouldn't recommend a 1MP camera given the current pricing of 2MP models. 3MP is much closer to film-replacement quality and would probably satisfy you for a longer time if your interest in photography suddenly becomes more acute. Technology will bring many enhancements over the next few years but the current crop of 3MP models should stand up well in terms of useful features and quality output for some time. I started with a 1MP to get my feet wet a year and a half ago and just bought a Nikon 990 to get me closer to the quality and features of my 35mm gear. In most of the pictures I take, the 990 provides great quality, flexibility and enough creative control to keep me satisfied. The 35MM doesn't come out of the closet much anymore. Hope this helps.

-- Dennis Pereira (dpereira@ultranet.com), July 21, 2000.

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