Say Cheese! Tips On Buying A Digital Camera (NAPSA)—How often have you had yourfilm developed only to be disappointed that the photos weren't “picture perfect?” You’re not alone. According to a recent survey, commissioned by HewlettPackard, two out of three Ameri- cans acknowledge that they are unhappy with the outcomeof their rolls of film. The survey also found that 84 percent of Americans are aggravated by problems commonly associated with traditional film photography, such as red eye, outof-focus/poorly framed photos, and runningoutof film. With advances in digital photography, these frustrations can be virtually eliminated. No more cutting off dad’s head or thinking you captured that “magic moment”at your child’s first birthday—only to find that you forgot to load the film. Digital imaging gives you complete control over the outcome of your photos because you can view, edit, re-shoot and delete images as you are taking them. Today, digital cameras and printers are more affordable and easier-to-use than ever. In fact, with products from HP’s new digital imaging line, you can set up your own photo lab at home for under $400. The new HP Photosmart 318 digital camera and Photosmart 100 photo printer allow you to instantly capture, share and print images. There are also enhanced photo papers that achieve high-quality, long-lasting prints that have the same look and feel of traditional prints. Purchasing a digital camera can be intimidating. Julie Adair King, author of Digital Photography for Dummies, offers the following tips for choosing a digital camerathat fits your lifestyle and budget: Find a good physical “fit.” Take a few test shots and evaluate how comfortable the camerafeels in your hands and that the controls are easy to manipulate. Megapixel madness! The greater numberof megapixels, the higher the resolution and quality. One-megapixel digital cameras New printers and camerasthat accept memory cards allow computer-free printing...so you can share pictures of your new baby immediately. produce great snapshots and 5x7inch prints. Two-megapixel cam- eras generate quality 8x10-inch prints. Three- or four-megapixel camerascreate high-quality prints at even largersizes. Photo-enthusiast or casual photographer? Forserious photoenthusiasts, look for advanced fea- tures such as manualfocus, optical zoom, exposure control and the ability to use accessory lenses and filters. Casual photographers may want a digital camera with fewer features (and lowercost). Removable memory. Most cameras store images on removable memory cards, such as CompactFlash or Smart Media cards. When the memorycard is full, either delete unwanted photos or simply pop in another and continue shooting. You can also take advantage of new printers, like the HP Photosmart 100 or 1815 photo printers that print photos directly from memory cards. * Don’t forget the batteries! Digital cameras need lots of juice. To reduce the cost of taking pictures, look for a model that uses rechargeable batteries. For additional purchasing tips and information regarding digital photography products, visit the Website at www.hpshopping.com.
