Very few of us have the luxury of an unlimited camera-buying budget. But even if your wallet is full, the highest-priced camera isn't necessarily the best for you. To be happy with a camera, you need to look at a lot more than its price tag.

No matter what your budget or your photography experience, you can learn a lot from this series of articles. And if you already have a digital camera, this guide can be still be useful, as it explains why the more obscure functions of today's cameras are important.

PART 1: Start your search by deciding on your basic budget. Then move on to the major choice between SLR and point-and-shoot. Then evaluate your resolution needs.
http://www.creativepro.com/story/feature/24364.html

PART 2: This installment is all about the elements that go into exposure. Ben looks at program modes, shutter speeds, apertures, white balance, and ISO.
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PART 3: There are a wide variety of camera controls and parts to think about this time. You'll consider your needs for light meters, lenses, image stabilization, autofocus, and flash.
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PART 4: By now you've narrowed the field. But there are still several things to compare, including viewfinder type, shutter lag, start-up time, histogram capabilities, exposure lock, and autobracketing.
http://www.creativepro.com/story/feature/24440.html

PART 5: This installment is dedicated to assessing the image quality of the camera models you're considering. Ben will show you how to evaluate output type, noise, color, sharpness, and whether you need a camera that shoots in the Raw mode.
http://www.creativepro.com/story/feature/24460.html

If you're also in the market for a photo printer, check out Ben's buying guides here:

Buying a Photo Printer, Part 1: Don't shop for a photo printer without reading this first. Ben helps you answer all your questions: dye sub vs. inkjet; four, six, or eight inks; dye-based or pigment-based inks; image quality; and more.
http://www.creativepro.com/story/howto/22682.html

Buying a Photo Printer, Part 2: Are you looking for the perfect photo printer? Ben continues to break down the sometimes-confusing process. Learn why media matters, how to save money on inks, and more.
http://www.creativepro.com/story/howto/22750.html