One of the major differences between an analogue and a digital camera is that the latter features a special LCD display. This small (between 2.5” and 3.5”) screen is probably the biggest advantage of shooting with a digital camera. It gives us the chance to observe the object while shooting the way it would look in the final picture and later to look at the ready photographs and choose which ones are worth keeping and which ones are not successful and should be deleted. Some models give you the option to do some editing (rescaling the photograph, cropping, cutting away unnecessary parts) right from the camera itself using the inbuilt software and the small screen as a monitor. Also, you can use this display to navigate the camera menu which gives you the opportunity to make dozens of settings based on your preferences. You should keep in mind that after long time in operation a large display may emit more heat and increase image noise levels. In this respect, a tilting screen works best as it is separate from the body of the camera and its heat emission does not impact the sensor.
Of course, an articulating display plays a much more important function – it ensures comfort when shooting, something unheard of in the age of classic photography, which allows the photographer to shoot easily and quickly from different angles and even to shoot unnoticed by passers-by. It is important to have a good anti-reflective display coating so that you can use it effectively even in bright sunlight. Sometimes, however, no matter how good the anti-reflective coating is, it is not enough to fully compensate for the difference in brightness between the display and the surrounding light. In such situations it is best to use the camera viewfinder.
A touch-control capability of your display is one of the most important extras modern cameras can offer. With a single touch you can select the focus area to focus on an exact spot and with some models you can even shoot.
The camera doesn’t make a bit of difference. All of them can record what you are seeing. But you have to see.
Ernst Haas