One-Time Use Cameras: We've all seen those one-time use cameras in the supermarket checkout lane, right there next to the tabloids. Some of these cameras are yellow, others green and still others manufactured by companies we have never heard of. So what should you look for in buying one of these? When buying a one-time use camera, pay special attention to the camera format (size of the film), film speed, flash or no flash design, and the expiration date of the film. The various formats available in these cameras provide for great fun. Try the panoramic versions or underwater cameras. If you plan on shooting outdoors in bright sun, then a non-flash version, with the slowest film speed you can find (say ASA 100) is the logical pick. For indoor use, go with the flash-equipped camera with film speed of ASA 400, but don't expect great flash performance from these little cameras.

ONE-TIME USE CAMERA BUYER'S GUIDE

• Experiment with different camera formats (panoramic, underwater, etc.)
• Buy a flash unit only if you plan on indoor photography
• Buy faster film camera (ASA 400 speed) for indoor photography
• Buy slower film camera (ASA 100 speed) for outdoor photography
• Check the expiration date on the camera
• Have fun

35mm Point-And-Shoots: Buying a point-and-shoot camera is getting complicated. There are so many features, models, and price ranges that a decision can be difficult. Before you go shopping ask yourself exactly how you intend to use the camera. Will you be shooting mostly indoors or outdoors? Lots of people pictures or travel shots? Will you need a zoom? Do you plan to make enlargements over 5"x7"? These are important questions.

Buy a camera that is a name brand; this ensures that at least your lens will be reasonably good. Many cheap cameras have lenses made of plastic! Next, consider a zoom lens. They add cost and weight, but it's worth it if your images will involve tight close-ups of people, trips to the zoo, or travel scenes. But don't just buy a zoom because everyone else is buying a zoom; you should have a definite need before adding to the cost.

If you’re working with a zoom lens you must become a better photographer! You need to hold the camera very steady to ensure a sharp picture and watch your backgrounds and lighting more carefully. Also, as you zoom in, you need a quality lens for sharpness and more light or faster film speed for proper exposure. Keep these facts in mind before you "zoom in" on everything in sight.

If you plan on making 5"x7" or larger enlargements, then buy the best lens you can afford, zoom or no zoom. As you enlarge any image, the weaknesses of a cheap lens will magnify quickly, and have an obvious effect on the finished print. One final question you should ask before buying the camera: do the camera controls make sense to you? Can you "make friends" with the design, size, and feel of the camera? Do you like its looks? You have to ‘like’ the camera you're buying; that way you'll use it more and become a better photographer.

POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERA BUYER'S GUIDE

• Buy the quality of a name brand
• Before you buy, consider the type of photography you will mainly be doing
• Buy the best lens/camera you can afford
• If you need a zoom lens buy the best you can afford
• Do you like the ‘look’ of the camera
• Do you like the position of and understand the camera's controls
• After you buy, read the manual that comes with the camera!