A Friendly Photo Tip
November 20, 2011
Exploring your digital camera
Take the time to explore the features of your digital camera. Many cameras offer more features than a simple lens and “push-here” button. You will find that your camera may offer you ways to almost guarantee the perfect shot.
Does your camera have a Histogram graph? A Histogram? What’s a Histogram?
A Histogram is a graph that displays how light is distributed in your picture. The left side of the graph represents the shadows, while the highlights are on the right. You’ll find directions in your camera’s manual to learn how to switch the Histogram graph on while you review your pictures. Reviewing the tones of a shot on the spot can offer you a chance to redo the picture and capture a great image.
Learning about Histograms in photo editing will also serve you well as you can possibly “fix” a few of those original “oopsies”.
A Histogram of a well-balanced photo.
A friendly photo tip
October 23, 2011
ALWAYS carry a camera
You never know just when that special shot will present itself – an unexpected smile, a surprise visit, a sunset that is captivating…
Digital cameras have opened up a world of photography with no film cost, usually seeing instant results and easy uploading to a computer or printing at a convenient drugstore booth. There are cameras that fit in your pocket or purse – even some cell phone cameras will take extraordinary pics. While your everyday camera may not be the one you would pack for a photo shoot, a good and inexpensive digital camera will work to catch the shots you just don’t want to miss. And don’t underestimate the advantage of having an easy “back-up” camera as well.
Take practice shots with a camera you have now, see how well you like the photo you can capture. If you decide you want to purchase, check out some of the camera displays in a local store. Look at the cost, the size, how it fits in your hand and pocket. how easy it is to operate. Remember to check out the power and picture storage options. Prices begin well under $100.
Remember the Boy Scout motto – Be Prepared.
* the camera picture depicted does not represent any endorsement of the product.
A friendly photo tip…
September 24, 2011
When you are traveling you need to pack smart and light. Whether it’s a carry-on bag or a compact camera case in the back of your car, you have to decide which equipment will work best for you. Today’s digital photography helps to make the task a little less daunting.
Pack one body (if you are traveling by personal vehicle you may have extra room for a second), be sure to take a lot, A LOT, of memory cards, batteries, charger if available (remember an outlet adapter if you are traveling to a foreign country), an electronic flash and a lightweight, small table-top tripod. If you are limited to only one lens, a 18-200mm (or similar) zoom lens is the most versatile. If you have room for a second and third lens, pack a 18-70 (good for wide angle) and 70-210 (telephoto).
Snap multiple shots, get different angles and if possible different shadows – worry about deciding on which shot is best long after you are home again.
Oh, and don’t forget to get some of those pure tourist shots with the family as well!
A friendly photo tip – July 10, 2011
July 10, 2011
Digital camera plus kids at home equals great opportunities to experiment.
Children are terrific photo subjects – they play, sleep and get engrossed in tiny little projects around the house. Kids rarely run from a camera and they don’t worry about how they will look.
Use the opportunity to experiment. Catch the kids in action shots as they tumble around, play ball or play at the beach. Capture a poignant moment as they study a butterfly or sleep peacefully. Take as many pictures as you want – an “error” with a digital camera doesn’t cost you anything so snap away.
When photographing a child, move down to her level so you can fully capture the expression on her faces. Try to use a natural light and get in close. Try group shots and snap different angles.
A friendly photo tip ~ NEW feature on the Bylines blog
June 26, 2011
It is so easy to take a straight-on shot of an inanimate object, especially if you are a tourist seeing the sights.
Whether it’s a landmark bridge, a historic building, or a town square statue, take the time to walk around and see it for yourself from different angles before you try to focus in on it with your camera. Watch the shadows, the background, the perspective…
Which angle “speaks to you”?
