what do you need to do with the camera?
- form factor - what shape is it going to have?
- compact / point and shoot - small , flat , and lightweight with a built in lens designed to fit easily into a pocket .
- mirrorless - slimmer and lighter than a DSLR because it lacks the internal mirror, while keeping interchangeable lenses .
- DSLR ( digital single - lens reflex ) - bulky , contoured body featuring an internal mirror and optical viewfinder .
- action camera - tiny , rugged , and cube - shaped or rectangular , built for mounting on helmets , handlebars , or gear .
- medium format - large , heavy , and modular body built around a massive sensor for ultra - high - resolution studio or landscape work .
- cost
⠀⠀⠀⠀- get the most for your money .
⠀⠀⠀⠀- research ( recommended bhphotovideo.com ) .