My last post recommended that you handle a camera before you buy it. I don’t mean that you see if the image quality is good (it will be), but that it feels good when you hold it. I didn’t say why, but this is important because this is how you use a camera. Really.

Were the controls logical and in the right place (for you)? Did you feel like you were going to drop it or lose it in the first five minutes?

Notice that I didn’t ask or recommend how many megapixels you need. If the number is over 4, you will be fine. It will probably be a lot more than that. Just remember that the number of pixels has nothing to do with the quality of the picture you take.

What does? You do. If you point the camera at the back of a cow, you will get a picture of the back of a cow. How many pixels you have will not make it any cuter. It will just take up more space on your computer.

So … what do you plan to do with your camera? Party shots for Facebook? Have a new baby? Product shots for your eBay items? Sports? Photojournalist?

What your plans are will determine whether you should be buying a DSLR or a point-and-shoot (p&s).

There is no doubt that the best camera is the one you actually use. If you can easily carry your camera, then it will get used. Truth be told, my DSLR’s sit in their protective case most of the time. And, Yes, there are times when I think that it is too much trouble to get them out to use. I’m considering making one of them my “car camera”, which I will carry in the car, ready to shoot.

If you are happy with taking your kid to Target for posed photos, and are not unhappy with shots around the house, even if they are a little blurred. Then a p&s is for you.

If you need a camera you can sneak in to a club for those Facebook pics, get a p&s, or use your cell phone.

Selling things on eBay? Either will do.

Is your kid starting sports? Dancing? Get a DSLR.

TIP: if you want to shoot anything/anyone that is moving and/or indoors, consider a DSLR.