One of the units of measure of a digital photograph is the number of megapixels. This measurement is the number of dots (pixels) used to store the image. More dots make a picture clearer. Therefore, generally speaking, an 8-megapixel camera will take better pictures than will a 6-megapixel camera. A 10-megapixel camera should take better pictures than either of those with lower megapixel capabilities. (I am ignoring lens quality and other factors.)
For the past ten years or so, we have seen the number of pixels constantly increase in consumer-grade cameras. Long ago, two-megapixel cameras were common, then four and then five and then six and so on. Nowadays, 10- and 12-megapixel cameras are available for $100 to $150 or so. Now Kodak has announced a major step forward: a 50-megapixel sensor for use in digital cameras.
At 50 megapixels, the sensor captures digital images in astonishing detail. For instance, let’s suppose you use a 50-megapixel camera to take an aerial photo of a field 1.5 miles (about 2.5 km) across. If you enlarged this picture, you could see clearly an object about the size of a small notebook computer (1 foot by 1 foot).
The new sensor also reduces “click-to-capture” time for improved camera response, lowers power consumption for improved battery life, and improves color fidelity.
Details may be found at http://tinyurl.com/5uwcul.
The price of this 50-megapixel camera will be very high when first introduced. However, the original four- and six- and eight-megapixel sensors were also expensive when first introduced. The prices dropped quickly as manufacturing ramped up, and I suspect these 50-megapixel cameras will do the same. Look for them in the discount stores about five to ten years from now.
