·Memory Stick: The memory stick is an invention by Sony. As a result, these cards can mostly be used only on Sony devices. Hence, if you have a Sony digital camera, a Toshiba laptop; then it is most likely that you will not be able to use your memory stick on both equipments. It is a very durable and rugged memory option. So, unless and until you are a Sony fan, memory stick has limited use for you.

·Card Reader: Once you have purchased a memory card for yourself, you will also need a card reader in order to transfer your pictures onto your laptop or PC. The advantage of a card reader is that it can be directly attached to your computer through USB port. Then you simply need to slot in memory card into reader, and you can transfer files easily. The card reader does not require any additional cables and neither does it use up battery of your digital camera.

The bottom line with digital camera memory cards is that you need to always have more on hand than you need, prices are often very affordable, and you should choose your camera based on version of memory card that it takes. Don’t buy into a camera system if you feel memory card will not accommodate your photo taking needs.

A camera for images of top quality for web pages, desktop publishing etc : Now, if you need a camera for taking pictures for desktop publishing or web site development, then you need one with a 4-5 mega pixel range. These cameras normally have lots of additional features which you can use to enhance your images. Even though they are quite costly, they provide best options with respect to resolution, features, and creativity. They also allow you create prints up to 8x10 inches in size with very good quality.

Besides above points, you also need to consider other issues such as ergonomics of camera. How does it feel when you hold it in your hand ? Are you comfortable with its size and weight? Is it practical to carry it throughout day ? Is its shape user friendly or does it look like a gizmo out of Star Wars?

If you emphasize on a light-weight and small camera, then you must also keep in mind fact that you will compromising on battery life. Most small cameras do not have powerful batteries since larger battery, more power. Also, small cameras have very small flash lights – so amount of flash generated by these pea-sized flashes will be considerably less than a bigger camera.

Hence, it is very important that you know exactly what you need your camera for in order to ensure that you are truly buying best digital camera for yourself.