Compact digital cameras not only capture but store photographs electronically so there is no need for film or having them developed like a regular camera. New multifunctional digital cameras can take photographs, record sound and/or video.

There are several types and models of compact digital cameras available on the market today. There are also many skill levels and styles of photography. Choosing the correct digital camera depends on personal needs. Compact digital cameras are classified into several groupings such as:

1. Video CamerasProfessional video cameras have multiple, per color image sensors that heighten color gamut and resolution. Camcorders come with sound features and LCD to look at for taping and playback. Web cams, attached to computers, are great for video conferencing. They are full motion video. 2. DSLR'sDigital single-lens reflex cameras used by many professionals are great for action or specialized photography. They retain the main features of single lens reflex cameras. The lens is interchangeable on this camera. The image sensors on DSLR cameras are larger than compact digital cameras, which result in less overall noise and higher sensitivity to poor or dim lighting. The operation and auto focus is faster as these cameras because they are on instantly. They save in JPEG and raw formats at the same time. Not only are these heavier, more expensive and bulkier but they do not record movies. 3. Standard Digital CamerasOften called digicams, they are easy to operate and focus with specified motion picture potential. Because of extended depth of field, it focuses multiple depth objects at the same time. Professional photographers find the standard digital cameras take artificial or flat looking pictures. Great for landscape and casual use, it saves the pictures in JPEG format. 4. Subcompact CameraThe subcompact digital cameras are even tinier than the compact digital cameras and fits easily into purses and pockets. This makes them very easy to take almost everywhere so they are definitely the most portable of all the cameras. One drawback is they are usually more expensive than compact digital cameras and have less manual controls. This makes it easy to over-expose pictures. Some of these subcompact cameras are so tiny they become difficult to use.

Many of the compact digital cameras can connect and transfer data directly to a computer. Older cameras used the serial port on a personal computer. The most widely used method today is through the USB port. Some use Bluetooth or have a FireWire port. Bluetooth is a wireless personal area network that can connect and exchange information between a digital camera and computers as well as among other devices.