While it may seem odd to have "strategies" to buying a digital camera, it wouldn't be the worst thing in the world. Maybe your the type of person that just likes to impulse buy things like digital cameras, but obviously that means you have a lot more money to throw around then I do. I don't like to over analyze any situation, but I do believe that doing some research prior to making a purchase can be a good thing that works well in your favor. Of course it really depends on what kind of camera your buying. If your looking for something simple and basic that even grandma could use, then buying the sale item of the week will probably work well. Otherwise, do give some thought to the following pointers.

Don't settle for an inferior camera, just because you thing the more sophisticated cameras will have too much of a learning curve to overcome. Of course, what I'm talking about here is SLR cameras. They seen some of the biggest price drops in the camera sector over the last year or two. At the same time, their ease of use has gotten much better. At the very least, you should try one out for a while and see how you like it.

Don't assume that small and light is a bad thing when it comes to digital cameras. I know we like to feel something substantial and durable in our hands before buying, but that's just not the way of gadgets. We live in a world of plastics, and super light metal alloys when it comes to digital cameras. These materials can be surprisingly tough, and with the miniaturization technology today, there's really no sense in building big bulky cameras.

If you've got the budget, and the inclination, it may make sense to own several cameras. A small light compact camera that fits in your pocket, purse, or backpack has some obvious conveniences. But a good SLR will get you far better pictures in situations that a compact just can't. Low lighting and extreme zoom are just two instances that come to mind. Give the price of cameras these days, it really makes sense to have multiple camera options.

Don't get suckered in my features you'll never use. It's true, that even the basic options of most cameras are more numerous than you'll need. Just be wary of the latest bells and whistles that you end up paying a premium for.