INTRODUCTION

These days digital cameras are available for virtually any price and\or any need, however finding the right digital camera is still quite an elusive goal.  Weather its finding the right number of megapixels to what type of features you'll need to get that perfect picture, this guide to buying digital cameras offers simple and sound advice to get the right camera for your needs and know how.  Below lye a few examples of typical "digicams".
  
                                    
Kodak CX7530                   Nikon Coolpix 4200           Fujifilm A330

BEGINNERS

Assuming you are a beginner to digicam camera arena, you do not want to go out and get the most expensive and feature laden camera you can buy.  You are simply getting your feet wet and learning the basics or what you like or dislike.   A few major features and\or needs you need to asses before purchasing your first digital camera are (see definitions at the bottom if necessary): number of megapixels, size of the camera, optical zoom range, battery type, memory card capacity, and the size of the lcd display.
     It is best to start off with a mid range ($120+ new usually) 3-5 megapixel camera with at least a 3X optical zoom, because cameras with fixed lenses are usually low end, take unsharp pictures (poor autofocus), and require the photographer to adjust his or her physical position. A 3X optical zoom will allow you some freedom to get closer to or frame a subject better without movement.  Well known brands in the film camera market, such as Kodak, Canon, Nikon, etc. are usually good choices for digital camera purchases.  The size of most new cameras is suitable for easy travel, however if very compact size is a must then Canon's "Powershot ELPH" line or Casio's "Exilim EX" series are examples of what would fit the bill.  No matter what size the camera you choose is, a decent sized LCD is a must.  This will be your primary viewfinder and first means by which you can review the pictures you take.  An LCD screen of at least 1.5 sq in. (preferably 2" or higher) would be best.  The battery type is another important aspect of a digital camera.  No one type (proprietary or standard AA or AAA) is superior over another, however there are unique benefits to each type.  Proprietary batteries (lithium Ion battery like those found in cell phones) can always be recharged, nevertheless when they run down you cannot simply buy another from a local retail or grocery store like alkaline or typical rechargeable batteries.  Most smaller cameras have propriety battery packs, in which case it is best to have a back up.  Other cameras using standard batteries should be used with rechargeable batteries that are made especially for digital devices or cameras because they discharge a stronger current and last longer on a single charge; nickel and alkaline batteries tend to fade and drain quickly.  Lastly memory card capacity can be summed up by saying, "the bigger the better".  The type of card used in digital cameras varies, nonetheless sd media cards are probably most popular, while other types include compact flash, memory stick, smart media (older and outdated) etc.  No one type has any large benefit over another, just be sure to the card is rated over a 10X speed because this affects the amount of time a camera takes to save photos and  draw them from the card for review.  128mb should be adequate for the 3-5 megapixel range unless you plan on using the video function of you camera more frequently; in such a case a 512mb card or higher is recommended. 
 

Ex. of the Canon "Powershot ELPH" line (SD400)

EXPERIENCED USERS

For those who have owned or purchased digital cameras before, there are still a few pointer or things you should consider before your next purchase.  Assuming that you are upgrading an autofocus assist lamp, orientation sensor, multiple focus areas, and advanced movie option are just a few things you should look for in your next camera.  At this point in your digital photography excursions you are in search of a better picture and possibly more options; this means more research and the observation of past mistakes are in order.  An auto fucus assist lamp and ability to focus on multiple\non central objects greatly aid a camera's performance in low light and hasty photo takes.  An orientation sensor will allow your camera to adjust the pictures dimensions 90 degrees to capture those tall or tight shots.  Finally, an advanced 640X480 @ 30fps (frames per second) movie mode is convenient and allows your camera to serve as a small camcorder for capturing those treasurable moments in motion.  Just make sure this mode is unlimited (only limited by the size of your memory card) or is able to fill a large volume such as 1GB.
 

Sony Cybershot
 

DEFINITIONS

Mega pixels - The amount of information a camera can take in during each still shot.  The large the number, the larger the picture will appear on a computer screen.

LCD - The display or screen on the back a digital camera which serves as the primary viewfinder.  It often allows the photographer to see more of potential picture than the optical viewfinder found on a digital camera (if it has one).

Fixed Lens - No optical zoom

Optical Zoom - The magnifying power or reach of a camera's lens.

Digital Zoom - A digital camera's ability to magnify the perceived subject without the use of lens adjustment.   This zoom often produces grainy and\or blurry pictures.

Proprietary Battery - Rechargeable Lithium Ion batteries used in digital cameras.  They are often lighter and more compact than standard batteries, however they cost more to replace.

Standard Batteries - Ex. AA or AAA batteries; batteries made especially for digital devices are most suitable for use in digital cameras.