Digital cameras offer users a variety of features that not only simplify the photo taking process, but also make storing and printing photos easier. Because of the automated processes involved in digital photography, there are quite a few differences between this and traditional film photography.http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/filmdig.htm The transition from film to digital can cause many novice users to become overwhelmed with the options they are presented with when using a digital camera. However, learning how to use a digital camera can allow them to make use of each of the digital features. This will result in quality photos taken with the convenience of digital technology.

Before purchasing a digital camera, shoppers need to understand what each feature means and how the specifications of the camera will effect the photos that are taken. After choosing a camera, users need to become familiar with the basic functions of the device. Simple procedures such as replacing or recharging batteries, inserting and removing expandable memory and managing photos on the camera are all essential to using a digital camera.http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/reviewing-and-deleting-pictures-in-your-digital-ca.html?ref>

Digital cameras offer a variety of settings for taking pictures. Each one adjusts the camera functions and takes the photo based upon the elements of the scene. Settings are typically found for bright sun light, low light, action photos or those that are taken close up. Understanding what each setting provides, in terms of the resulting photo, will allow the photographer to properly choose the appropriate setting.http://www.homephotog.com/tutorials/settings.shtml A few examples of settings commonly found include:

1. Auto- This permits the camera to alter the settings in order to produce a photo based upon what the camera has detected as elements of the surrounding area. The digital camera evaluates the scene and changes the settings accordingly to capture the ideal photo.
2. Programmed Auto - Is similar to the Auto setting, but allows the photographer to change the level of exposure of the photo.
3. Shutter Priority- Offers the user the ability to change the shutter speed, which is especially helpful for photos taken where there may be action or a lot of movement.
4. Manual - This provides the photographer with the ability to change each setting.
5. Night Portrait - This is used for pictures taken in very low light conditions.
6. Sports - Motion often results in a blurry photo. This setting increases the shutter speed to capture the subject while in motion.
7. Close Up - Adjusts each setting to allow for clear and vivid photos of items closer than 36"-24".

There are basic elements of digital photography that are found in each model of camera. Depending upon the quality and complexity of the device, these features may vary from average to professional grade components. http://www.neocamera.com/guide_camera_basics_more.html

1. Pixels - These small color "dots" are what make the characteristics of a picture. The more pixels that a camera is capable of, the more intense the details of the picture will be.
2. Optical zoom - This number is how many times larger the digital camera can make a potential photo. This is used to bring the subject of the picture closer to enhance the details of the photo.
3. Digital zoom - Used to mimic the effects of optical zoom, without enhancing the details.
4. Expandable memory - Most often seen as a benefit, removable memory gives users the ability to take many photos and still have room for more. SD cards are commonly used and are easily purchased at most retail department stores.

Unlike film cameras, photos taken with a digital camera can be printed from a home computer. Digital cameras can be connected to the computer, and photos transferred from the computer memory to a file. These can then be printed using photo paper and ink cartridges that are specifically designed to provide the colors needed to print quality photos.http://www.hp.com/united-states/consumer/digital_photography/

Many computer models have the ability to read SD cards without having to connect the camera to the computer. In this case, the photos can simply be transferred to the computer. They can also be left on the SD card as this allows for easy transportation of pictures for sharing or storage of photos for use later. http://www.sdcard.org/consumers/cards

Located at many retail department stores are photo centers that allow customers to print photos from SD or other types of memory cards that may be used with digital cameras. Customers can choose which photos are printed, different sizes and number of prints for each photo.http://photos.walmart.com/walmart/howitworks