Actually you need to take RAW photos as Amber originally mentioned. You can
then edit the photos to whatever format you need. Here are the real issues
in choosing a camera and accessories:
1. You're going to take high resolution photos. Unless you want tons of CDs,
you need to have a DVD burner on your computer too. High resolution photos
can run up to 15+ mgs each, so it doesn't take long to fill up a CD. On the
other hand, DVDs hold 4.7 gig each.
2. SLR cameras are fabulous if you have the money. I'm currently shooting a
Nikon D70 and have great results with it. The key will be having a macro
lens, but in the lens world they're not terribly expensive. If money is an
issue, look for a digital with a GOOD macro setting. B&H will be able to
help you research this.
3. Card reader - I'm assuming you're working with a desktop computer. If so,
just buy a 8 in one or 10 in one card reader. They're the best bargain! I
have an older Sony cybershot that fits in a pocket. It uses Memory Stick
while my Nikon uses Compact Flash. It's nice to be able to use one reader
for everything.
4. You should consider buying or building a "white box" for shooting
individual objects and small groups without shadows and "odd" backgrounds.
There are a number of ways to do this, and you can check out photography
catalogs and magazines for options. One of the easiest is made of PVC pipe
and white fabric. You want something that will allow some light in, so a
painted cardboard box won't work. 

The Sony Mavica is a real workhorse, and I've always had good results from
them. I bought Canon Powershot SD400s for both my 78 year old parents and my
daughter and son-in-law. Both couples LOVE the camera, and they've been
producing some awesome photos with them. 

Becky Fitzgerald

-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf
Of Patricia L. Miller
Sent: Wednesday, August 24, 2005 10:53 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: digital cameras

>Amber, I have been working with a lot of librarians. They are adamant that 
>your master image be a TIF.

Pat Miller

>
>
>----------
>From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On 
>Behalf Of Amber S. Mohr
>Sent: Wednesday, August 24, 2005 9:11 AM
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: digital cameras
>
>
>I am looking for a digital camera to digitize my collection database, but 
>it will also be used to photograph objects for possible publication or web 
>use.  I'd like something that has the ability to take raw or very high 
>quality jpg images, which is easy to use, and reasonably priced ($900 or 
>so).  Our collection consists of 1:12 scale (one inch = one foot) 
>miniature furniture and accessories, so a macro option is essential.  I do 
>no currently have a card reader, and am open to cameras that take mini 
>CDs, zip disks, or memory sticks.  I have heard (from non-museum sources) 
>that the Canon G series and the Sony Mavica are both excellent 
>choices.  I'd love to hear your suggestions and experiences.
>Thank you in advance for your assistance.
>Amber
>
>Amber Mohr
>Curator/Collections Manager
>The Kruger Collection
>University of Nebraska
>133 Architecture Hall
>Lincoln, NE 68588-0107
>402. 472. 3560
>http://www.unl.edu/krugercollection/ 
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Patricia L. Miller, Executive Director
Illinois Heritage Association
602 1/2 E. Green St., Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 359-5600  [log in to unmask]

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