What is a compact camera and why should you choose one?
What is a compact camera?
The range of compact cameras is very large. But what they all have in common is the compact size. The big question is only: when do you opt for a compact camera? To find out, it is good to first know what a compact camera is and what you have on it.
When do you choose a compact camera?
You generally opt for a compact camera if you are looking for a small lightweight camera. Compact cameras are popular with casual photographers who want to take a photo quickly and easily, with the camera automatically controlling the settings. But there are also compact cameras for the creative hobby photographer. With the advanced models you achieve any desired photo result through the various setting options. These images are often of good quality. The only disadvantage of the compact camera is the fixed lens that you cannot change.
How important are megapixels?
Megapixels. You often hear that word when it's about cameras, but how important are they really? More megapixels doesn't automatically mean better photos. It does mean you can print photos at larger sizes. You should, then, first consider carefully what you will do with your photos. Almost all compact cameras that are made nowadays have a minimum of 10 megapixels (10 million pixels), which allows you to print photos at A4 size or bigger.
What setting options do you have with a compact camera?
An entry-level model for the starting photographer or the occasional photographer does not have so many options. This makes these models very easy to operate. You can adjust many more settings on the advanced compact cameras. These models have automatic, semi-automatic, and manual settings. This way, creative hobby photographers and even professionals can get started with a compact camera.
What image quality does this camera deliver?
Because most compact cameras have a relatively small image sensor, you cannot use them to produce the highest quality images. Advanced compact cameras have a larger sensor, making your images clear and detailed. These models are often a lot more expensive. If you use a compact camera for making vlogs, a larger sensor is recommended. With this you make quality videos.
Want to record video as well?
Many compact cameras can record video in addition to photographing. All models have an automatic mode for this, in which the camera controls everything and focuses by itself. This is sufficient for most home videos and vacation videos. Zooming in and out during filming works the same way as during photography. The zooming motion may be visible on your video.
In order to keep the camera still during filming, using a tripod or stabilizer is recommended. One big advantage to recording video with a compact camera is that it's lightweight. This makes it a commonly used camera among vloggers, especially when it has a tiltable screen.
