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Ok, time for some sweeping generalisations. Broadly, digital cameras fall into four main categories.

First, there are style cameras. These are usually ultra-compact, in other words less than 25mm thick and weighing under 130g. There are dozens of models in this category to choose from, and which one suits you best is as much a matter of taste as specification.

Style cameras usually have only easy-to-use automatic operation, although there are a few that have limited manual exposure control. They come in a range of megapixel sizes, currently from five to ten, although that will undoubtedly change soon. Some more recent higher-end models include such features as image stabilisation and face detection technology. They are primarily designed to go in your shirt pocket or handbag for a night out, for taking social snapshots. They normally have 3x zoom lenses that are either fully internally mounted or retract into the camera body, and normally have quite large LCD screens for sharing your photos with friends. Examples of this type of camera include the Casio Exilim EX-Z70, Canon Digital IXUS 65, Olympus FE-230, Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX3, Pentax Optio T20 or Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T50, amongst many others.

Second, there are standard compact cameras. This is by far the broadest category, and covers everything from cheap four-megapixel plastic boxes with no recognisable brand name and strictly limited features, all the way up to expensive enthusiast models such as the Canon PowerShot G7 or Leica D-Lux 3.

They generally have medium-range powered zoom lenses, usually 3x but increasingly often 4x or 5x, and like the style cameras they come in a range of megapixel sizes. Current entry-level models are four megapixels, but it is likely that these will soon disappear leaving five megapixels as the lowest power available. Currently the most powerful are 10 megapixels, but again this may change as new more powerful sensors are developed.
Most standard compact cameras have programmed auto exposure, usually with a range of scene programs, but more advanced models include manual exposure controls, and even manual focusing. Most have LCD monitors up to 3in in size, and some also have small optical viewfinders.

The third category are what are sometimes called bridge cameras, because they span the gap between consumer snapshot models and more advanced professional cameras such as SLRs. Other common terms for them include super-zoom or semi-pro.

This is a smaller category, but still encompasses a wide range of models from nearly all of the major manufacturers. Generally they have more powerful sensors then compact models, usually around eight to ten megapixels, and usually have powerful zoom lenses, ranging from 7x to 15x magnification. Nearly all bridge cameras have a full range of manual exposure controls and other advanced features such as image stabilisation, high-ISO sensitivity, adjustable flash output, adjustable focus points and multiple metering options. Some also have the ability to mount an external flashgun. They are, unsurprisingly, usually a lot more expensive than compact cameras, in fact some high-end bridge cameras are now more expensive than entry-level DSLRs. Examples of bridge cameras include the Canon PowerShot S3 IS, Fujifilm S9600, Kodak P712, Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50, Samsung Pro815 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1.

The fourth category is the digital SLR. Just a couple of years ago these were the exclusive preserve of the wealthier enthusiasts and professionals, but thanks to keen competition between the manufacturers the price of entry-level DSLRs has tumbled, and it is now possible to buy a good basic digital SLR complete with lens for under £400, and even mid-range 10-megapixel models are under £700. Only the very top professional cameras such as the Canon EOS-1DS and Nikon D2XS still cost thousands, but then we’ve all got to have something to aspire to, haven’t we?

All digital SLRs have a full range of manual functions, and generally have a much wider range of control than even the best bridge cameras. DSLR sensors range from six megapixels up to over 17 megapixels, and are physically larger than the sensors in compact and bridge cameras, giving them a number of advantages in terms of image quality. All digital SLRs have interchangeable lenses and a wide range of accessories, such as external flashguns, extra battery packs, WiFi transmitters and other gadgets. Not all digital camera manufacturers make SLRs. Currently the only brands in the DSLR market are Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Pentax, Samsung, Sigma and Sony.

Beyond these categories there are professional digital camera systems based on existing large and medium-format cameras, as well as specialised high-end gear with huge high-resolution sensors. They are quite breathtakingly expensive and are really outside the remit of this website. If you’re considering one of these then you probably don’t need my advice about buying a camera, you smug git.

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