As opposed to a DSLR, shopping for a compact camera is a relatively easy affair. There are a few basic rules that you need to know, firstly, megapixel don’t matter as much as you think they do. Instead, it is the lens that really matters, so, look for the kind of lens used, the focal length etc. Finally, consider other features like display resolution, low light performance, image stabilization and video quality. Based on all these criteria, we have put together a list of the best compact digital cameras:

1. Canon Power Shot SX260 HS – This Canon Power Shot camera comes with a 20x25mm ultra wide lens, backside illuminated CMOS sensor and Digic 5 image processor. Simply put, these are the some of the most advanced features in the world of compact digital cameras. This 12 megapixel camera boasts of excellent image quality and image stabilization. Additionally, it has a long zoom lens and it offers a variety of shooting modes. The Canon Power Shot SX260 HS is one of the best point and shoot cameras, one that should please both the amateur and the professional photographer.

2. Nikon Coolpix S9100 – The Nikon Coolpix S9100 has much in common with the Canon Power Shot SX260 HS. Both of these 12 megapixel cameras come with CMOS sensor and long zoom lenses. The Nikon Coolpix S9100 takes excellent photos even in low light thanks to its 18x zoom optical lens. For a camera that can easily fit into your pocket, the S9100 offers many automated modes. All you have to do is click a single button and you can have sharp and crisp photos under any conditions.

3. Sony Cyber Shot DSC-HX30V- This 18 megapixel camera is an absolute favorite among consumers with its high quality lens and performance. It has a significantly wide lens with improved auto focus speed and image stabilization. Additionally, it comes with built in Wi-Fi, improved GPS and Sony’s Clear Image Zoom, all of which make it a force to reckon with.

Besides these, there are several variants which are equally promising. Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20, Sony Cyber DSC-RX100, Canon Power Shot 92 and Fujifim Finepix Z800EXR come highly recommended. The truth is that there is very little separating all of these models and one just has to rely on personal choice as the last resort.

Everything You Need to Know About Waterproof Digital Cameras

Waterproof digital cameras are fairly recent and therefore, producers are still trying to iron out flaws and errors. To begin with, let’s clearly state what these rugged cameras can and cannot do. For starters, they are not meant for professional underwater marine photography. For that purpose, you will have to invest in some underwater camera housing which is available for several cameras, including DSLR’s. However, if you are looking for a camera to click photos in the pool or around a beach, waterproof cameras will be perfect for you.

A waterproof camera usually has a seal which protects the inner components of the camera from water damage. This seal has to be extremely tight and resilient to work efficiently. In some cameras, the seal can leak or break easily, thus defying the whole purpose of an underwater camera. Therefore, the quality of the seal is a crucial factor in a rugged camera. Besides that, a good waterproof camera should be physically tough and it should have the right color balance for underwater photography.

Given below is a list of some of the most efficient waterproof cameras available in the market:

1. Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS4- The DMC range of Panasonic has produced some of the best waterproof cameras till now and this one is no exception. It has a rock solid, aluminum body which is drop proof to a depth of 6.6 feet. The 12.1 megapixel camera boasts of a Leica lens and produces exceptionally lively and vibrant photographs, even during the night. The camera is slightly bulky, but that is a common problem with all waterproof cameras.

2. Sony Cyber Shot TX20- Quite surprisingly, the camera from Sony is rather sleek for an underwater digital camera. The waterproof quality can last up to a depth of 16 feet and it is drop proof up to 5 feet. The camera comes with a Carl Zeiss lens and it shoots at 16.1 megapixels. More importantly, image quality is exceptionally good. On the flip side though, the battery life is quite poor.

3. Olympus Tough TG-1- This camera from Olympus is among the heaviest and largest waterproof cameras and it can operate till a depth of 40 feet underwater. Significantly, it has a mode dial which makes it easier to switch between modes while shooting underwater. The lens is produced by Olympus and the camera shoots at 12 megapixels. When it comes to picture quality, the camera delivers with great color balance. Additionally, the battery life is as good as it can get in an underwater camera.

4. Nikon CoolPix AW100- The Nikon CoolPix AW100 boasts of exceptionally high performance in the image quality department as it has a number of underwater settings. This 16 megapixel camera can stay waterproof till a depth of 30 feet. Finally, it has a very rugged and resilient body which is shockproof up to 5 feet.

So, the next time you plan a vacation to the beachside, these waterproof cameras can be of great assistance. You can take high quality photographs without worrying about damaging the camera. While none of the above mentioned models are without their share of flaws, nevertheless, they will not give you a lot of reasons to complain. And the good news is that better ones are on their way to the market.