Stumble It!Digital cameras have become increasingly popular because of the quality of digital photography--and the lowering costs of the cameras. You can find a good quality digital camera for less than the cost of a comparable film camera. And, like film cameras, the digital version is virtually trouble free. In fact, most problems are really photography issues--poor exposure, inadequate lighting, thumb over the lens--rather than something you need to repair. Even so, knowing how they work and what can go wrong will keep your digital camera producing great photos longer with less trouble.
How Does It Work?
A digital camera takes photographs that are electronic rather than on film. Digital photography blends the technologies of photography and computers. The digital camera uses a computer chip to record an image focused on it by a lens. The electrical charges are read and turned into digital information or data. The data for the image is then transferred to a removable and reusable memory card in the camera. The resulting images can be stored, viewed, enhanced, altered, and printed from a computer. Also see the Film Camera Fix-It Guide.
What Can Go Wrong?
In most cases, the problems you may have with a digital camera can be resolved by referring to its owner's manual. It's amazing what digital cameras can do--and what settings are available to you if you know how to use them. So spend time with the manual. Unlike film cameras, it doesn't cost you anything to try things and see the resulting image.
As you can see, digital cameras have no parts that are easily replaced by the consumer. However, you can open it up to clean it or dry it if necessary.
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Fix-It Tip
Digital cameras can rapidly go through batteries, especially if you use the lens zoom, a built-in flash, and the LCD. So keep a supply of fresh batteries on hand, preferably in the case in which they were purchased so the tips don't touch each other.
How Can I Identify the Problem?
Again, you can identify and resolve many of the problems with digital cameras by referring to the owner's manual. Here are some general tips.
If the image quality is poor, check the lens to make sure it's clean.
If the camera won't turn on, check the batteries, or connect the camera to an AC adapter. If that doesn't work, remove all batteries, disconnect the AC adapter, wait a minute, reinsert batteries and reconnect the adapter.
If the flash doesn't work, the camera won't take pictures, or the screen keeps turning off, check that the batteries are strong.
If the camera got wet, turn off the camera and remove all batteries and storage media. Let the camera dry completely for at least 24 hours before reinstalling the batteries and media. A can of compressed air will help dry it out more quickly.
If the camera uses batteries too quickly, use the viewfinder more and the LCD less. You also can replace the batteries with heavy-duty batteries suited to digital cameras (the ones that came with the camera probably are barely adequate). Use the power adapter whenever downloading images to a computer. You also can reduce battery drain by using a card reader to transfer images to the computer.
If the camera won't connect with your computer, make sure you have the latest version of the needed software drivers (in your digital camera package or online from the manufacturer). Check your computer for conflicts (two devices trying to use the same port); you may need technical assistance for this one. In some cases you can get things working again by connecting the digital camera, then turning off the computer and turning it back on.
Fix-It Tip
If you are unfamiliar with digital cameras, buy yours from a store that offers good advice and service. You may spend a little more than if you purchase from a discount store, but you will have a resource to use for questions and problems--a valuable asset.
What Parts, Materials, and Tools Do I Need?
Don't try to take your digital camera apart! Follow the directions in the owner's manual on replacing batteries and troubleshooting your camera, but don't go beyond that. If it doesn't work, maybe it's under warranty. If not, hire a professional camera repair service with digital camera experience.
What Are the Steps to Fixing It?
Know your camera. Perform regular maintenance on it as needed (clean the lens, keep fresh batteries in it). Keep your camera away from adverse environments (hot, cold, or wet places). Other than that, take it to a professional for service.
Fix-It Tip
If you are unfamiliar with digital cameras and computers, but still want to try one, ask among friends for some instruction. Most folks love to share their knowledge and advice.
