Features To Look For
Resolution. Most cameras on sale in 2006 have resolutions of 4 MP (megapixels) or more. The more MP a digital camera has, the larger the photos you can print, but the higher your cost. 6 MP will let you comfortably print 8" x 10" enlargements.
Telephoto Zoom Lens. Pay attention only to a camera's optical zoom rating. So-called "digital zoom" is just a trick that enlarges the pixels to make you think you're getting closer. You're not. Many pocket-sized cameras have 3X (three times) optical zoom. Some larger cameras offer zoom lenses of 10X magnification or more. Telephoto zoom lenses are great for shooting photos at sporting events or other large spaces where you can't get physically close.
Media Type. If you're replacing an older model digital camera, see if you can find a model that uses the same media. For example, if you previously owned a camera that used SD (Secure Digital), you can save yourself the cost of having to buy another SD card by looking (first) at digital cameras that also use SD media.
ISO control. Especially past 400 – this will let you take photos in lower light conditions. A digital camera's ISO control simulates the senstivity of different kinds of film. Cameras with ISO ratings from 100 to 400 are primarily intended for brightness conditions ranging from bright daylight to fairly bright indoor lighting. You may be able to get results at ISO 400, but your images may have mottled specks commonly referred to as "noise". Some digital cameras will let you go as high as 1000, and digital SLRs will go to 1600 sensitivity or more. If you plan on taking photos in low-light conditions primarily with flash, then ISO rating will not be important to you.
Tripod Screw Mount. Planning on using a tripod? Make sure the camera has a tripod screw mount on the underside. A screw mount made of metal is what you really want; a plastic one won't last as long.
Battery Power. My advice is, try to stick with cameras that use rechargeable AA batteries. While it's true that some rechargeable batteries will give you long life, their proprietary construction means you can only use their chargers (which may cost more than you'd like to pay), and if you forget to charge the batteries before going on a long trip or a major event, you're out of luck. If nothing else, you'll have to wait an hour or two to charge the batteries the first use of the camera after you get it!
Built-in flash. This matters especially if you'll be shooting in low light conditions.
Hot Shoe Attachment or Changeable Lenses. These apply to digital SLR cameras. A hot shoe allows you to attach flash units of your choice rather than depending on the one in the camera (if there is one). Changeable lenses give you more flexibility in focal lengths, but they will cost more to buy and use.
LCD. A large viewing LCD display (2" or larger) on the back is becoming common – many cameras have these now, and it makes it a pleasure to review photos or show others what you just shot.