Digital SLR vs. digital point-and-shoot: How do I know which one is right for me?

If you simply want to take informal photos of friends and family, you don't need a lot of features, and you prize compact size, an all-in-one digital camera makes sense. On the other hand, if you'd like more control, more responsive shooting, and higher-quality photos, and you don't mind a larger camera that won't fit in a pocket, you may be ready for a digital SLR. You can learn more about SLR features here.

What camcorder do I need if I want to upload videos to YouTube?

Fortunately, YouTube is so flexible that just about any video you create can be uploaded there, assuming it's less than 2 gigabyte in size. However, some manufacturers are adding special modes to camcorders and cameras just for use when shooting footage that you intend to put on YouTube or other video-sharing websites. There are even compact camcorders designed specifically for sharing your videos online.

If I have a camera with HD video built-in, do I need a separate camcorder?

It depends on what you plan to shoot. If you just want to record short clips on occasion, a camera with video capability should be fine. But if you plan to record special events like weddings or recitals, or if you want more manual control over settings like exposure and white balance, you'd probably benefit from having a separate, high-quality camcorder. See our camera and camcorder shopping guides for tips on choosing the right one for you.