There are now many technologies and features being incorporated in digital cameras; many of these functions the average buyer has either no need for or just doesn't understand. When you are ready to buy a digital camera, consider what it is you want it to do. Just to help with the confusion that you may be feeling, some information on what to look out for is discussed below. The first piece of information is defining what you need and want in a camera. Next you need to think carefully about where and when you will use it. Making up your mind as to what functionality you want your digital camera would be is a daunting task and the  extended warranty  can also add to confusion. As far as cost is concerned, no matter what your needs and wants are for the device, your financial resource will play a huge part in dictating the type of model you will buy. You will probably be downloading the images onto your personal computer so check to see if your pc is up to the task of printing and editing these images. Some computer outlets can supply complete computer systems that include a digital camera, printer, software and other accessories, so you can be ‘up and running' very quickly. Although when you buy a digital camera it comes with software to help, other pieces of hardware will probably need to be bought separately.Special photo printers that do not require a computer are now available and the price of these is dropping slowly. Although you may not print out poster size images, setting the megapixel resolution to its highest setting will ensure the prints are of better quality. When fitted to a digital camera, its internal memory is usually only good for the storage of a couple of high resolution shots. The storage capacity of some current storage cards can go up to 32 gigabytes; this should be enough for many hundreds if not thousands of shots even with very high megapixel models.Another, sometimes under-used test is just holding it to see how it feels. With some of the newer manufacturers, functions completely replace any attempt at making it easy to operate. Digital cameras use a great deal of power, especially the screen so even if they are not supplied, rechargeable batteries should be used; these can last for many hundreds of shots and will save a great deal of money. All digital cameras have a LCD screen which is a small screen located at the back of the unit; this screen allows for greater shooting flexibility in addition to making it easier to view them afterwards.Removing the traditional viewfinder has been a step forward for many people that disliked using photographic equipment fitted with them; the LCD screen is much easier to use. If you want yours to have a good zoom facility, you should opt for those with an optical zoom lens. If you are serious about buying a digital camera then you should try to avoid purchasing one with only a digital zoom. Better quality models will usually come with a tripod socket as it can be another one of those really useful additions, so ensure when you buy a model where this is fitted. With this knowledge you should be in a better position now when you buy a digital camera.