Missing Choices

2006.03.23

Most people like, want and expect to have choices. When faced with little or no choices, people feel trapped, as if the lack of choice alone is troublesome, let alone the lack of interesting choices.

As far as digital cameras are concerned, there are plenty of choices. In the first quarter of 2006 alone, 67 cameras were introduced by major manufacturers. Combined with older models still in production, there is certainly over 100 cameras to choose from.

So what makes it so difficult to choose one? Some may say that, with so many choices, it is difficult to know which choice to make. But why would having so many choices be a problem? The more choices, the higher the probability of finding something suitable. True, but the problem is not the choices we have, but the choices we don't have!

People who research digital cameras frequently come up with a small number of cameras which suit their needs but have trouble making a choice among those. The main point of indecision is that each model is superior in some way and it is hard to be certain of which aspect is more important.

Camera manufacturers bring together different technologies and features to make each of their cameras. The combinations which are not brought together are either technological impossibilities or missing choices. As new models are being released some missing choices get realized and some available choices go missing. Such is the reality of technogical evolution in a business driven-world.

So what choices are missing? Lots. Usually combinations of 2 or 3 features that we like in a single camera, some missing choices are closer to existance than others. Here are just a few:

• Entry-level DSLR with AA batteries and Compact Flash memory.
• Ultra-compact with usable high-ISO and full-manual controls.
• Fixed-lens camera with stabilized ultra-wide-angle zoom.
• Interchangeable-lens camera with an EVF.
• 10 megapixel DSLR with anti-shake.

Of course, there are many other possibilities. Missing choices change, some did not exist before and some ceased to exist. Not so long ago, there were no ultra-compact digital cameras with high-ISO capabilities or any with full-manual controls. A digital camera with a 1 megapixel EVF existed not so long ago. Due to this, by the time most people read this the above list may not be entirely accurate.

The best way to deal with missing choices is to work from a list of desired features and separate those that are limiting from those which are inconvenient. Limiting features are those which reduce possibilities, such as not having manual controls. Inconvenient features are those which are not limiting, like a camera using xD cards for someone who has a collection of Compact Flash cards. Any digital camera choice which has no limiting feature is a good choice. If no such choice exist, then limiting features must be compared to determine their relative importance. When this proves to be too difficult, it is probably worth considering getting more than one camera. Together, these cameras should have all the desired features, in exchange for higher cost and bulk.

• Digital Camera