What is the Best Digital Camera for Me?

I am often asked, “Which camera should I buy?”  It’s a simple question with a million possible answers.  When you are thinking, which digital camera is right for me, there are a number of questions you must answer for yourself first.

1. Budget – How much do you want to spend?  This really is the most important question as it will determine the type of camera you should be looking at.  Prices always fluctuate, but here are some guidelines:  $100-350 range will get you a simple “no frills” point-and-shoot camera, $300-$600 puts you into a compact camera that will have a lens will optical zoom capabilities, $600-1200 is the typical range for prosumer  DSLR (a consumer camera with some professional features including interchangeable lenses) $1200-2500 for a professional DLSR camera with an APS-C sized sensor (a sensor smaller than the size of a 35mm negative) , and $2500-8000 for a professional camera with a “full frame” sensor (the sensor is the same size as a 35mm negative).
2. Size – Do you want a camera that will fit in your pocket?  If so, a point-and-shoot or compact camera is the only want to go!
3. Zoom – Do you want to take photos of a baseball player swinging at the plate from deep right field?  The only way you’re going to get excellent results is with a DLSR and a 400-500mm telephoto lens.  I know this is an extreme example, but I think you get the point.
4. Picture – How much control do you want over the final image?  If you’re only looking to take snapshots to document vacations, kids growing up, birthdays, holidays, etc, a point-and-shoot or compact camera will likely serve you just fine.  If you’re a Pixel Peeper that wants to capture the best image possible, a professional DLSR is a requirement.  Don’t forget amout megapixels too!

Not all digital cameras are created equal.  Every one of them has made some tradeoffs between cost, size and picture quality.  Therefore, these are the things you need to consider to determine what will fit your needs the best.