Being able to just whip out a camera at a moment’s notice is fairly handy for those occasions where you would otherwise be kicking yourself for not capturing the perfect image. You know what we’re talking about; every time the dog is doing something ridiculous; every time your toddler learns something new; every time you catch your Mum having a sneaky cigarette in the garden while the rest of the family sits down to Sunday dinner, the thought crosses your mind. If only I had a camera for that moment.

The problem used to be that cameras were cumbersome items to lug around for the everyday, enormous monstrosities that made you look like a tourist even if you were merely wandering around your local town enjoying the scenery. Then along came the digital camera which year-by-year gets smaller and easier to use. Just slide it into your back pocket or attach it to your belt and you’re ready to go. No more heaving around massive cases on your shoulder, no more waiting around the pharmacy to get your photos developed. Even better, the video function means they double as a camcorder. It’s the perfect little gadget to have around.

If you don’t mind the size however, there are the slightly more advanced versions complete with extra lenses and functions for taking much more professional looking photos, so if you’re a photography wizard, take a look at the selection of digital cameras available on the market. If you consider yourself a bit of a modern Sherlock Holmes or the next Veronica Mars (because they seem to be very popular at the moment), you might even be interested in your very own spy camera. Just don’t go breaking any laws…