4 Common Myths about digital cameras

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People with less experience in cameras tend to pass around certain rumors about digital cameras, how they work, which is better. They are usually based on lack of information or an inadequate interpretation. Here are some of the most popular camera myths and their explanations.

  1. The more megapixels ,the better

The “megapixel race” as I like to call it, happened for a few years between camera manufacturers. It’s still going on, but thankfully, at a slower pace. The basic idea about camera sensors and megapixels is that having the most of them is not always the best solution. Crowding the largest possible number of pixels on a small sensor usually affects image quality. Don’t be fooled by a brand new compact camera with 18 megapixels, because it’s not really a strong point. Megapixels are resolution; the more of them there are, the larger the photograph, but having many megapixels is no guarantee of image quality. Things have gotten better in the past few years, and now, even smalls sensors with a high pixel count offer decent image quality. Overall though, the less they are, the better for image quality. In the real world, 6-8 megapixels are more than enough for 95% of consumer needs, but it is a profitable marketing strategy to keep adding to the numbers, so that’s why they’re growing.

  1. The best cameras are the most expensive

Not true. Before buying a camera, don’t look at the price tag first, go for the specifications sheet. Some cameras are designed to be expensive, because they are limited edition, affiliated with a certain luxury brand or…pink. Most of today’s cameras, starting from bridge cameras all the way to full frame pro DSLRs offer amazing image quality .Pros ten years ago had to work with a lot less than what an entry level camera offers today. Look at the technical data first.

  1. A big lens is always a big zoom

Nope. Think of the Nikon 24-70 mm f2.8 AF-S or the 14-24mm f2.8 AF-S. They are both pretty big, but one is an all-round zoom, and the other is an ultra-wide angle lens. Indeed, the biggest lenses, the ones you see at sporting events are also the longest in terms of focal length, but they are usually fixed lenses.

  1. Digital cameras need a lot more care than film cameras used to

Well…it depends. Film cameras where a lot more basic than today’s DSLRs, but one thing should be kept in mind, and that is the fact that today’s cameras don’t open. That’s actually a good thing. Of course, there is specific, regular maintenance that has to be done. Nobody will escape cleaning their sensor every once in a while, and never mind dust-proof technologies that shake the sensor and blah-blah. They work, but they’re limited. Provided you take care of your camera much like any other gadget, it should be fine. If you really want to be safe, buy a more rugged camera with a magnesium body and weather seals.

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