Megapixel Rating

• When choosing a digital camera, selecting a unit with a high megapixel rating usually means a better quality image will result. One megapixel equals one million pixels -- tiny light gathering sensors (see Reference 3). A camera that utilizes 10 megapixels, or 10 million pixels to compose an image, will create a more detailed image than a camera with a 6 megapixel rating (see Reference 1).
  
  

Resolution Settings

• A camera with a high megapixel rating doesn't automatically guarantee high-quality images. Many manufacturers set the resolution -- or number of pixels actively in use when taking pictures -- on a medium setting at the factory. If you've never adjusted the resolution setting on your camera, your image quality may be less than your camera's capabilities. Since you've paid for all those pixels, use them. Set your camera's resolution to the "High" setting for optimal image quality. You can always reduce an image's resolution later using photo editing software to create a smaller file suitable for emailing. (See Reference 1)
  
  

Compression Levels

• When adjusting the image quality settings on your camera, check your compression level settings. Most cameras record images in the JPEG format, a file type that will undergo compression -- or a reduction in file size -- before being stored on a media card. While compression makes it possible to fit many images on a media card, it also lowers the quality of your pictures. Choose a "low" compression setting to retain high quality images and fit fewer images on your media card. To save an increased amount of pictures on the media card -- and reduce the quality of your photos -- set the camera's compression setting to "high." (See Reference 2)
  
  

Image Exposure

• Learning how to correctly use the exposure settings on your camera, such as aperture, shutter speed and the ISO or light-sensitivity settings, will produce higher quality images. For example, if you routinely underexpose your pictures and try to lighten them with photo editing software, your pictures will have a fuzzy, faded appearance. Improve the quality of this type of picture by increasing the size of the camera's aperture opening, choosing a slower shutter speed or selecting a higher ISO. Utilize the camera's histogram feature for a visual, graphical representation of your exposure. (See Reference 4)