|
|
|
Digital cameras
Summary: Digital cameras are a force to be reckoned with in the marketplace. With an enormous selection of digital cameras from which to choose, it is important to understand digital terminology as you consider a purchase. PORTRAITSECRETS offers a down to earth explanation of some of the important terms from a veteran portrait photographer who has dealt with the switch from film to digital photography.
Welcome to the digital realm. Imaging technology has
blessed us with advances far beyond imagination. That same technology
has flooded the market with affordable digital cameras. The down side
of this sometimes confusing "digital boom" is understanding the
terminology of the digital age.
In order to get a handle on the terms, here is a
down to earth explanation to some of the most important aspects of the
digital camera's mystique.
Getting to know them
- Resolution measures the image quality. The higher the resolution the better the quality.
- Megapixel literally means a million pixels. Pixels are rectangular shapes of color sensitive information that make up the image.
- Megapixel rating is the measure of the camera's digital imaging sensor. The higher the rating the better the image quality.
- Image format is the
manner in which your image is stored. Two popular formats are
jpeg and tiff. There are other less often used formats.
- Digital zoom is the enlargement of doubling of the pixel's size to create the illusion of a larger or closer image.
- Optical zoom an actual zoom lens that magnifies the subject and replicates the function of a 35mm camera lens.
- Memory card is a
small reusable card that stores digital images-the digital equivalent
of film. Some common varieties of those cards are: CompactFlash,
SmartMedia and Memory Stick.
Features attract attention
With technology advances come an ever expanding line
of cameras with features that may deliver higher quality images in the
hands of an informed photographer. Some features that offer
promise are:
- Image stabilization to improve image quality at slower shutter speeds.
- Adjustable viewing displays to allow tilting to view images at various angles.
- Automatic white balance to allow the camera's image sensor to better balance and correct the color temperature of a scene.
- Adjustable in-camera menus to allow manual adjustment to shooting modes, exposure control, saturation and contrast.
Information please
You can spend as little as $150 or as much as $5000
for a digital camera. Generally speaking, camera prices are
competitive, but you may benefit from sales, special promotions or
pre-packaged camera kits. The important point is to be an
informed
consumer. Spend some time getting to know the camera brands, their
features and their limitations before you buy.
Keys to success:
- Multiple choices available
- Understand terminology
- Exotic but practical features
- Be an informed consumer
Don't hesitate to ask a camera store
professional to explain camera features in terms that you can
understand.
|
|
Good photographs begin with good light. In the digital photography world, the quality of light corresponds to the quality of the photograph. The dramatic light of the early morning and late afternoon can raise the quality of your images. In poorly lit situations use supplemental lighting from the camera's flash in the fill-flash mode.
• more tips & tricks
Adobe's Photoshop is very expensive at nearly $700, Is it worth it?
Dear PS,
Adobe's Photoshop is very expensive at nearly $700, Is it worth it?
On the cheap in Oregon
Dear On the cheap,
Yes! If you plan to take creative steps in dealing with your images, photoshop and the lastest Creative Suite 2 are simply the best and most efficients image handling programs available. Is it "worth it" to you, that depends on what you hope to achieve with your images. I would suggest the Elements version of photoshop as an entry level position. Better yet, check a local computer store or even the Apple Store an invest a little time in attending a couple of their tutorial classes for a "test drive" of the program. Then you'll be better informed before you spend your money.
Thanks for your question,
Michael at PS
• read Michael's answer
• submit a question
Submit your photos for review and display in our online gallery.
• visit the gallery
• submit your photos
 Michael E. Keating is an award winning portrait photographer...
 more...
|
|
