Digital Imaging Equipment

Digital Cameras

The quality of prints from digital cameras is rapidly approaching that of traditional film and can be achieved even with entry-level cameras. These cameras provide basic point-and-click functionality and sell for $200 - $325.

Desirable features in an entry-level camera include:

resolution: 3-megapixels

A digital image consists of hundreds of thousands of individual picture elements, called pixels. The resolution of the camera is equal to the number of horizontal pixels multiplied by the number of vertical pixels. A camera with a 3-megapixel resolution can produce a 2048 x 1536 image which can generate an 8" x 10" print.
zoom type: optical

An optical zoom magnifies the image using a lens and increases your ability to photograph distant subjects. The magnification level is expressed in degrees, such as '2X' (two times) or '3X' (three times). Many cameras also provide a digital zoom capability which should not be mistaken for optical zoom. Digital zoom uses software to increase image resolution via interpolation. This can lead to a fuzzier, less defined image.
batteries: rechargable

Digital cameras devour batteries. You can easily use four AA batteries in a day or two of moderate use. Rechargeable batteries and a charger eliminate the expense of having to purchase batteries.
media size: 16 megabytes

When you press the shutter-release button the image is saved on the storage medium. There are many types of media for digital cameras, but most models are compatible with only one. The most common are CompactFlash and SmartMedia. Many Sony cameras use Memory Stick and some use mini-CDs or floppy disks.
special features: Digital Print Order Form (DPOF)

DPOF enables you to select the photos you want to print directly in the camera without using a computer. The information is written to the camera's removable media and is read by printing services and applications. DPOF supports the selection of which photos to print, quantity of each photo to be printed, index printing of thumbnail images, image rotation, user information (name, address, etc.) and picture information (title, description)

Scanners

Flatbed Scanners

For entry-level desktop scanning the Canon CanoScan line offers compelling features at a very reasonable price. They offer 2400 spi or greater optical resolution and many include an active overhead transparency adapter for slides and negatives. Bundled software includes Canon's full-featured ScanGear scanner driver, a very capable Arcsoft entry-level image editor, and a limited edition of OmniScan Pro.

Canon's CanoScan LiDE line of flatbed scanners provide 1200 spi optical resolution and are small enough (1.25" H x 10" W x 15" L) and light enough (approx. three pounds) to be used as a portable scanners. They are powered from a USB cable which eliminates the need for a separate ac power connection. As a result, most are ideal for remote scanning with a notebook computer.

Epson's Perfection flatbed scanner line has consistently been a top-performer in the consumer market.

Film Scanners

Film scanners convert film negatives or slides into digital photographs. Once the province of professional photo labs only, film scanner prices have decreased dramatically, decent units are available in the $300-$600 range. Film scanners don't require the constant adjustments that standard flatbed scanners do, can scan 3-4 photos at a time, and offer much better resolution than flatbed scanners because they use the original image source rather than a fairly low quality print as the souce of the scanned image.

Nikon's Coolscan film scanners are designed for imaging professionals and demanding amateurs. The Pacific Image Primefilm scanner line is targeted at amateurs that value convenience and portability.

Kodak PhotoCD

Kodak PhotoCD is a scanning standard that produces images in five resolutions up to 2,000 x 3,000 spi. Scans are made from original negatives or slides by professional photo labs. Image cost ranges between $0.50 - $1.00. For more detailed information refer to Ted's Unofficial PhotoCD page.