"Chuck (in SC)" wrote in
:

Is there an equivalent to aperture to look for in digital cameras?
My current digital camera doesn't have what would have been in 35mm
days a large aperture.. What to look for when concerned with action,
or low light other than flash?..

Thanks
Chuck (in SC)


Most digitals list their apertures with the lens specs, though some
of the smaller point-n-shoots don't display them noticeably, and you have
to search for them in the manuals/literature. Usually, look for the
notation "1:4-5.6" for the aperture, which would translate to f4 at the
short end of the zoom range, f5.6 at the longest. These would be maximum
apertures. Many of the smaller cameras cannot manage an aperture smaller
than f8

For the most part, the smaller the lens, the less the performance.
Even with small sensors, the idea is that you're collecting a lot of
light to produce f2.8, so the lens surface has to be big in relation to
the sensor.

http://www.dpreview.com/ is one of the most consistent and
comprehensive sites for camera specs and performance, and always provide
aperture range.

As for finding decent DSLRs, check out
http://www.keh.com/onlinestore/home.aspx . Their condition ratings are
usually *under*stated, since their used equipment is often in excellent
condition. One of the leaders in used equipment in the US, very
dependable, very professional.

Good luck!


- Al.

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