At first glance, some words/phrases used to describe features of a digital camera may be confusing. Here’s a list that will get you up to speed.

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Megapixel

See next section, “Explaining the Megapixel”.

SLR “Like”

SLR-Like digital cameras are prosumer and not true professional, however they feel like full-size SLR because of the body. This sounds like a detractor but it’s not as long as you’re aware what the term means. And what does it mean? It means you get a prosumer digital camera with an SLR-type body. This is handy for those that like bigger cameras that feel better in the hand without the hefty price tag of the full professional models.

Compact

Most digital cameras are compact-sized. This means they don’t have full bodies and are very rectangular in appearance. You most likely already have one of these or have used one previously.

Ultra-Compact

Take a compact shape and make it ½ as thick – this is ultra-compact. “Razor thin” style; the kind you can fit in a shirt pocket easily.

DSLR

Digital SLR. This is usually pro-territory only. Usually very expensive. Full-bodied.

CCD

Charge-coupled device. In other words, the image sensor. It converts light into electrical energy which is then stored digitally to the camera’s internal memory (or card if you have one installed).

Generally speaking, larger is better when concerning CCD. However bear in mind than ever with larger CCD if the lens isn’t up to the task (in physical size) it doesn’t make much difference.

LCD

The lighted screen behind the camera. Average size is 1.8” to 2.5” and greater. Bigger is better as long as the screen backlight can still be read in direct sunlight.

Macro Focus Range

The range of focus when close-up. There is “normal focus range” and the close-up shots are “macro focus range” territory. For example, if you wanted to shoot something that’s less than 12 inches away, that’s macro range.

Some digital cameras have a “tight” (i.e. more close-up) range while others will fail to focus if you get too close to shoot it.

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