The Basics: Ultra-Compact Digital Cameras

When it comes to high-tech devices -- outside of the big-screen HDTV -- smaller is better much of the time. Cell phones are continually shrinking in size, while adding more features. Every new generation of MP3 players seems to be smaller than the last one. The chips that drive computers shrink constantly. Although some photographers prefer the look and feel of an advanced digital camera that is similar to traditional 35mm film cameras, a quick look at the shelves of any store selling digital cameras will show you the trend in the digital camera market: smaller is better.

Manufacturers are focusing a large percentage of their models in the digital camera market toward the ultra-compact category. Ultra-compact digital cameras are those that measure less than 1 inch in thickness when powered down, allowing them to fit easily in a pocket or purse. Ultra-compact models are ideal as "on-the-go" cameras, allowing you to take them almost anywhere. They typically cost around $300 or less, making them a nice value. And the photo quality and performance level of ultra-compact models have improved greatly in the past few years, so they are a popular option.

Typically, manufacturers aim ultra-compact models at beginning photographers, where high-end camera performance isn't quite as important as style, a slim camera body, reasonable performance and an affordable price. Point-and-shoot simplicity and fully automatic controls are the driving forces behind most ultra-compact digital cameras. Most are about the size of a pack of playing cards, at least when powered down. When you turn on the camera, the lens typically extends beyond the camera body.

Very few ultra-compact cameras offer high-end features. You will find resolutions typically equal to or less than 8 megapixels, although some ultra-compact models offer up to 10 megapixels. You will find response times that are good -- not great -- meaning you might miss a few action photos. Most models do not offer a viewfinder; instead you must use the LCD to frame all photos, which can drain battery power more quickly and which makes it tough to follow a subject in continuous-shot mode. Certainly, some models can deliver high-end features, but most do not. However, it's worth noting that today's ultra-compact digital cameras are far more powerful and feature-rich than those from just a few years ago.

Ultra-compact cameras are not going to offer a lot of add-ons components that will give the model more power. You can't add an external flash to an ultra-compact model to give it more flash power, for example. You also usually cannot swap out lenses to give the camera a more powerful zoom lens.

How To Shop

Here are some questions to think about when considering purchasing an ultra-compact digital camera:

What are the primary strengths of an ultra-compact camera? You will find three key strengths with this type of model: thin and stylish camera bodies that fit easily in a pocket, easy-to-use features and low prices. The idea of being able to carry a small camera with you almost anywhere you go contributes to the popularity of ultra-compact models. Because these models don't offer many manual-control features and appeal to beginning photographers, manufacturers make these cameras easy to use. Finally, you won't find many ultra-compact models that cost more than $300.

What are some drawbacks you'll find with an ultra-compact camera? Because they are so thin, ultra-compact models sometimes can be difficult to hold and use comfortably. It's also easy to smudge the LCD screen on the back of the camera because the screen usually occupies a large percentage of the back panel. These cameras typically aren't going to provide top-of-the-line features, meaning you might outgrow their capabilities as your photography skills improve.

What are some hidden costs with ultra-compact cameras? You really won't find many hidden costs with this subcategory of digital cameras, in large part because most ultra-compact models cannot accept add-on accessories. These models just aren't upgradeable for the most part. You will have to purchase a memory card with most models, and you might want a second battery for some. However, with most models in this subcategory, you can begin shooting photos immediately upon taking the camera out of the box because most of them include some internal memory.

How do I know if I should buy an ultra-compact camera? Ultra-compact cameras and beginning photographers go together very nicely, because these cameras are easy to use and don't ask you to adjust settings to achieve the best photos. Some more experienced photographers will want an ultra-compact model too, usually as a complement to a high-end camera. Basically, anyone who wants an easy-to-use digital camera that can be carried in a pocket will appreciate the capabilities of an ultra-compact model. You likely won't be able to shoot a photo that you can turn into a pristine 16x20-inch portrait with an ultra-compact camera, but you can shoot quick photos and print them at smaller sizes that your friends and family will appreciate.

What is the key feature that buyers often overlook with ultra-compact cameras? For the most part, with an ultra-compact model "what you see is what you get." With such an easy-to-use type of digital camera, you aren't going to find hidden features and overlooked capabilities. However, one key component that you can't measure looking at the model's specifications list involves the camera's LCD. Because most ultra-compact cameras use the LCD as the only viewfinder, it's important to have an LCD that's viewable in all types of light, especially in bright sunlight. Some LCDs have problems with glare in bright sunlight to the point that you cannot see the subjects when trying to shoot a photo, which can be a serious problem. If possible when shopping, try to view the LCD's performance in bright sunlight before you buy a model or at least ask the salesman about this.

If you're looking for a solid camera at a great price, you will have dozens of potential candidates, allowing you to stick with well-known brands. If you want to emphasize a particular function -- such as response times or high resolutions -- you will have fewer options to choose from, meaning you will want to do plenty of research ahead of time. Shopping around at various stores is helpful, because some stores might have a special price or might include a free memory card. If you find a low price at an Internet retailer, see if your local stores will match it.

Finally, if possible, try any model before you decide to buy it. Because ultra-compact models are so thin, they can be tough to hold and use, depending on the positioning of the controls. Make sure the camera's ergonomics fit your hands.