Basic and prosumer digital cameras range in price from less than $150 to more than $600. DSLRs cost more than $600 — and in fact can cost more than $7,000 if you absolutely want the very best. The number of features available can be mind-boggling, so start at a level where you feel comfortable.

Most people will pay between $100 and $1,000. In this range there will be a large number of cameras with just a few dollars separating them. No matter which camera you think about buying, there will be another one with just a few more features for just a few more dollars. For example, Canon sells a range of thirty-six cameras in this price range.

With this many choices and the minuscule differences in pricing, it is important that you make sure you know what you need. That way you will avoid being seduced by additional features in the next model above the one you have chosen.

If you are new to digital photography, buy a low-cost camera to learn on. You will not use a feature-laden camera nor understand all its capabilities. A basic camera will be much less intimidating, and after you feel comfortable with such a camera, you can graduate to the next level.