For nature photography, the best digital camera must be versatile enough to capture high quality landscapes as well as being capable of taking close ups of flowers, insects, birds and similar subjects. Digital SLR (Single Lens Reflex) cameras are the most advanced and versatile of all cameras due to the vast range of lenses and accessories available for each system. Some of the features to look for when choosing a digital camera or Digital SLR include:

Speed - the digital camera must have minimal shutter lag for fast picture taking. This is especially useful in nature photography involving animals or in freezing movement such as a fast flowing river.

Zoom lens - the zoom lens must be 3x or longer and must be capable of producing sharp high quality photos.

Manual controls - aperture priority, shutter priority and full manual control can be useful in achieving creative results, controlling depth of field, action shots and for macro photography.

Battery Life - the digital camera battery must be able to last for a reasonable time before recharging is required.

Large LCD - the LCD viewfinder must be 2" or larger to accurately view and compose the picture.

Except where otherwise stated, all the digital cameras recommended have the above features. Other features or additions which can be useful include:

Powerful zoom - A wide angle zoom for landscapes and panoramic pictures can be useful. Also a long telephoto zoom lens is also desirable for distant shots of animals as well as compressing perspective in landscape shots.

Optical image stabilizer - for shooting in low light conditions without flash or using a camera with a large telephoto lens.

Although many mid to high end digital compacts will provide good to excellent results when it comes to nature photography, a digital SLR still offers the best all round solution in terms of image quality, range of specialist lenses including super telephoto, powerful flashguns, numerous accessories including filters, accurate viewing through an SLR viewfinder, saving raw images and ultra fast operation for capturing the moment. The final choice between digital compact and SLR may depend on portability, price and the photographic expertise of the user.