What to look for in a new camera!

Hi guys, this is Chris again. Many customers have been asking us about what to look for in a new camera. Well, first things first, a camera should be something you use personally for a pretty long period of time. So you should really pick one that fits your taste first. Decide whether you want a simple DC, DV (they take pictures too), a Prosumer, or a full fledged DSLR! They all have their pro and cons. I personally like a Prosumer, especially the new Lumix LX3.

Having decided what class of camera's you want, you have to look at specifications. One of the biggest misconception about cameras is Megapixel count. Having more megapixels DOES NOT mean your picture will be higher quality (I would be rich if I got a penny everytime I get a customer complaining why their new high MP camera's pictures are not as clear as than their older model). Megapixel simply means that the image you will take with the camera will be of a particular file size (that's the really simple way to put it). A larger file size means that when you open the file on a display, you can zoom/magnify the image more before you start seeing individual pixels. THAT'S IT! Of course, a camera with a low megapixel count will have its image quality compromised, but from a practical standpoint, starting from about 3.2 MP, the normal user won't be able to notice much difference after that unless they zoom in.

Now, what really matters in terms or spec is the image light sensor. this part is absolutely critical in the quality of the image. I will discuss why in my next entry! Check back in about 2 days to keep yourself updated!

Keep your hardware updated!

Hi guys, this is Chris (the blog master) from Citiwide. Heres a quick tip that can improve your dated or even brand new camera significantly! Your digital camera is a marvel of modern technology, since its transition from light exposed film to CMOS sensors (thats what most digital camera's use to capture light and turns into an image), the anatomy of the camera has changed too. Modern day digital cameras, be it a compact DC or a DSLR, are all controlled by microchips and software that runs them. Just like your computer, manufacturers routinely updates the software that runs your camera. These updates contain many beneficial features, such as software fix, better noise reduction algorithms, or even prolonged battery life to name a few. These updates are your best friend in prolonging your camera's longevity.

To update your camera, it usually requires you to go to the manufacturer's website, finding your model of camera, downloading the latest firmware (thats the software that runs your camera), and installing it on your camera (through memory card or USB cable, depending on your manufacturer's instruction). Now I do have to point out, although firmware upgrades are usually regarded as good, there is the rare chance that your camera could be a defective product, with its defect not showing up till you update it. The chances are very slim, maybe 3-4%, but it happens. In that case, make sure you back up a copy of your original firmware, just in case (these can be downloaded on manufacturer's website too).

Updating your firmware is one of the most overlooked camera maintenance. It is also one of the best way to see improvement to your camera's overall performance. Now make sure you put this on your todo list next time you do a camera tuneup/cleaning. You will be amazed at what a simple firmware update can do to your camera! Cheers!