By Leonard Goh
20/06/2008
URL: http://asia.cnet.com/reviews/digitalcameras/0,39001469,62042943,00.htm

Everyone has his own opinion when you say you're buying a digital camera. Some will tell you brand X is better than brand Y, or how a particular feature you thought was useful is a hassle for them. In this installment, we bust more common myths and legends of digital photography. Can't get enough? Check out our first part of this swashbuckling tale.

Myth 6: I need a computer to print my shots

We say: This was the case in the early days when you needed to download your pictures into the computer before you could print them. Nowadays, you can get your images printed at just about anywhere, from photo labs and automated photo kiosks to online print service Web sites. Most printers now also offer onboard flash card slots for standalone printing. Alternatively, if both your inkbox and camera are Pictbridge-compatible, all you have to do is connect the camera to printer, select the images, and hit Print.

Myth 7: Faster memory cards are needed for optimum performance

We say: While this may be true for dSLR cameras, faster memory cards typically don't perform significantly faster in most compact cameras. This is because file sizes that compact cameras handle are relatively small compared to those generated in dSLRs. So keep this in mind the next time a salesperson at the store tries to convince you to fork out more dough for a faster memory card.

Myth 8: Auto mode takes lousy pictures

We say: In the past, shooting in the Auto mode usually meant having to compromise on the image quality of your shots, particularly when shooting in challenging situations or low-light environments. But with manufacturers adopting more advanced shooting algorithms in their cameras these days, properly focused and exposed pictures can also be captured using the Auto mode.

Myth 9: Third-party batteries work just as well

We say: Sure, these juice packs may be cheaper than the cells from the original manufacturer. In some cases, they may even boast higher battery capacities. But before you switch to third-party cells, consider the risks: Some of them undergo poor quality control resulting in inconsistent voltage output and inability to charge properly, which can cause damage to your camera. Not to mention, you will also void the warranty when the camera is damaged due to the use of a third-party battery.


Myth 10: Cameras that take AA-sized batteries have lousy battery life

We say:This really depends on the type of AA-sized batteries that are being used for the camera. As digital cameras are high-powered devices, alkalines do not generally last very long. Lithium cells give a much longer usage but cost a lot more than alkalines. High-capacity rechargeable Nickel Metal-Hydride cells (above 2,500mAh) offer the longest battery life (comparable to Lithium-ion rechargeables) and are probably the most economical option out there. Granted that cameras using AA-sized batteries typically give them a bigger footprint, its convenience lies in the fact that you can get replacement batteries just about anywhere.