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Stop missing the photo

Dear PS,

I own a $400 digital camera that performs well almost all of the time.  Except, when I am photographing people.  Just when I think I have all the right expressions and everyone is looking good, I press the shutter release and then….WAIT.  By the time the photo is taken they have usually stopped smiling and are looking anywhere but at the camera.  Why is it taking so long for the camera to record the image?

Missed it again,
Joanie

Dear Joanie,

What you are experiencing is called “digital delay”.  It is a common experience of digital camera owners.  First, you need to learn that there are varying time delays specific to different cameras.  Experience has taught you that your delay, while frustrating, is a specific length of time.  Have your subjects count 3,2,1 SMILE.  Practice this technique to determine the length of your delay.  Then anticipate the delay and depress the shutter a little earlier.  This will help with posed situations. Some digital cameras have a continuous shooting mode that is activated by pressing lightly on the shutter release, but not triggering the shutter. This may work for you.

Thanks for your letter,
PS

 
Tip of the Day

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.
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Q & A

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






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Michael KeatingMichael E. Keating is an award winning portrait photographer...
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