Tips For Organizing Your Camera Accessories

When you have accumulated a lot of digital camera accessories through the years, you need to find a way to organize them. This way, you will be able to find what you're looking for in a fast and easy manner. When you know where you keep them, you save time and effort in looking for the things that you want to use.

Storing your accessories in the drawer is a good idea but if you're the type of person who keeps forgetting and want to find items quickly, you should use organizers that have transparent materials. If you have lots of lenses, for instance, you can actually use a shoe organizer that can be hung on the wall or on your door. Get a clear shoe organizer where you can slip in your lenses and grab them easily when you need to use one. If you need to hang it on the door, make sure it does not swing and bang on it or on the wall. Hanging it on the closet door is ideal as this does not get slammed too often.

These clear shoe organizers normally come in different sizes and colors. So get one that fits your personality. If you're the creative type, however, you can create your own design using durable materials.

With regards to cables, there's also an easy way to organize them. Did you know that the toilet paper roll is very helpful? Yes, that's right.

This toilet paper roll that is often used in school and art projects can also be used to keep and protect your cables. If you have several cables to organize, just get a shoe box or any medium sized box and the appropriate number of paper rolls. To keep your cables intact, fold them according to the length of the toilet paper roll and simply put them inside. To make sure that they don't fall, you can tape the rolls together.

Another option is to buy a plastic box organizer of just the right size to store your cables. There are boxes that have a handle outside similar to a tool box and have divisions inside as well. You can check out online or in physical stores to be sure you're getting what you really want.

Having a good camera bag is also best. Find one that has various compartments to accommodate your digital camera accessories. There should be compartments for lenses and filters, batteries, memory cards and your camera. For the memory card, normally there's an inner pocket with a zipper that you can use to keep and protect your storage cards.

Being organized in your personal belongings is an admirable trait. It shows that you value your possessions and you want them to last long.

As owners of digital cameras, it is also your responsibility to find ways to store your device and accessories properly. This way, you eliminate the chances of getting them damaged. Keep in mind that when you care for your camera, it will also stay with you for a long time.

For information about camera stores, visit 42photo.com, New York's legendary camera store in business for over 40 years.

Original article

Photography for Ordinary People on a Special Day

You get out of bed early and notice your brightly coloured fluffy bedroom slippers. You get your digital camera and take your first shot of the day. About to climb down the stairs, you are surprised to find the huge Christmas tree glittering with Christmas decorations you see for the first time. Your mom must have gone shopping without you yesterday. You promise to ask her during breakfast and try to get her to give you an idea of the Christmas gift you will get tonight.

From above, the Christmas tree didn't seem so big but nonetheless is charming with the glitters of changing colours and hues. Without the lights, its beauty seemed so natural. You want to preserve the wonderful sight so you get your second shot for the day.

The dining room/kitchen area is empty. Finding nobody home, you feel alone and nostalgic. It will be Christmas by midnight tonight and everybody will celebrate Jesus' birthday. You take another shot. This time, it's the empty dining table and the kitchen area in the background, a lonely pre-Christmas scene. You silently eat a cold, light and simple breakfast.

Half an hour of silence seemed to have renewed you and you feel ready for the day. You check your calendar and suddenly remember it was supposed to be a busy day. You want a few things cleared with your mom before leaving the house but you just have to deal with it when you get back. A quick shower, a hurried change and makeup, then you leave the house making sure the door is locked. At the gate, you take a snapshot of beautiful stray kitten lazily lounging under the shade of the large round lamp. That is supposed to be your fourth photo shot for the day.

On your way to the mall, you observe how happy everybody seems to be. Christmas has that inexplicable cheerful atmosphere like an inexorable contagion freely floating in the air with a charm that unfailingly bring smiles to faces of both young and old. You take many shots in the bus, mostly of surprised joviality from radiantly smiling faces.

Arriving at the mall, you find your mom with your friends suddenly remembering last year's agreement amidst the fun for a repeat of the get-together. Your brother and father will join you by lunchtime after their pre-Christmas chores at work just like the year before. It also dawned on you that you haven't yet uploaded last year's pictures. You will have a lot of photos to upload this year. It will be like a before-and-after gallery you will do for this year's pre-Christmas rendezvous as the "official photographer" of the family.

Looking for some photographic inspiration?
Visit the http://hotelphotographer.org/ website and check out the great range of photos.
There are lots of great niches including Outdoor, Hotel and Travel Photography

Original article

How to Become a Better Photographer In A Few Simple Steps

Photography is fantastic as a career, a pastime, or simply as a way to capture those special occasions, events, and the lives of those that you love and hold dearest. Whatever your motivation, the following paragraphs will provide you with some pointers on how you can take much better photos, and get the kind of results you are looking for.

Try to incorporate shapes into your photography. Whether it's triangles, circles, squares or lines, these can add structure and dynamism to your work, and can help lead the eye around the frame of your image.

The "S" on your camera settings stands for shutter speed. Use faster shutter speeds to get razor-sharp looking pictures when taking moving things. Set the shutter speed to slower speeds when you're looking to get a more experimental effect that incorporates blur. This is a great characteristic to make use of when getting photos of fireworks or even tail lights on a car.

Try to understand and master all of the basic rules of composition before deciding to break them. Once you have mastered them, you will be able to more effectively know when to break them! There are many excellent books available on the subject of composition, and I recommend that you really devour them!

Keep your photos relatively simple. A good picture ought to be simple and easy to understand. Whilst it's important to take meaningful photos, in most cases your photos will express much more if you concentrate on simple subjects rather than attempting to pull together a composition that's too intricate.

If you can afford it by an external flash gun and use that rather than the one that comes with your camera. This is because the on camera flash can create very harsh and flat lighting. With an external flash you can bounce the light off a wall or ceiling and get a much more natural and flattering effect.

A great photography hint is to always be conscious of your environment. Even when you don't have a camera with you, you should still maintain your photographic 'vision' and keep an eye open for interesting subjects and shapes. Keep looking at the quality and nature of light in different situations too. This will enable you to really develop your photographic 'eye'.

It can be a great idea to play around with shadows in your pictures. In fact, sometimes the shadows cast by objects can be more visually interesting than the subject itself, especially when they are cast across an uneven surface or when the subject is side-lit.

If you really want to get creative, and have some fun in the process, try shooting with some black and white film. Film is still widely available and traditional black and white prints have a beautiful timeless quality to them.

It's important to remember that with a bit of practise and some determination you really can improve the quality of your work. You really don't have to be a professional to become a good photographer!

Matt Foden is a wedding photographer based in Croydon in London. He regularly covers weddings across the whole of the United Kingdom. You can see more of his work here:

http://www.mattfoden.co.uk/

Original article

How to Shoot Weddings on the Northern Beaches

To start with, take photos promptly. You will not know when the right picture will appear, or if anything causes your subject to go away, such as seagulls along the beaches in Sydney. Having your pictures rather quickly means you will almost always be ready to get that perfect photograph. It takes only mere seconds to get a seagull, that is very common around Sydney's beaches. The Northern Beaches in particular are scattered with excellent parkland and golf courses like Long Reef golf club and reserves along Colloroy that are particularly good for wildlife and child candid portraits. The colours along the coast mixed with the vibrant palettes of the play swings make for great opportunities so don't miss out.

Along Sydney's beach locations, distinct shutter speeds work well in a variety of configurations consequently be certain to have a experiment with your digital camera and ascertain what works. Wedding Photography in the Northern Beaches will allow you to capture a split-second second and also to cloud with each other large cycles. fast shutter speed just might help you pick up shifting physical objects, as the slower speed will let you find those all-natural scenes. scenes.

Your own pictures could have far more elegance with a couple of attractive details in the foreground. Time may seem to slow when you are within Sydney's Beaches, hence make time to understand riches of the vicinity. The beaches around Dee Why, Colloroy together with Manly supply extremely good waterside vistas. The Golfing parks along side beachheads can be private property so be sure to request authorization prior to when shooting on the grounds. The beachheads across the northern beaches is often particularly difficult. A good thing to keep in mind is that you have to know how you can hold the digital camera in the proper way. Your hands need to stay near to the rest of you, and also your camera lens should really be having support from what ever hand you're non-dominant with.

Photographing the skyline on Sydney's Shoreline is really a special treat. Try out angles, viewpoints as well as placements to produce the wedding photography there important. As the professional photographer, you might need to direct your subject to get a better shot. That way, you can create higher-quality pictures as compared to merely capturing pictures of whatever your subjects decide to do on their own. Be aware of the harsh sun which comes through the northern beaches particularly strongly.

A lot of people could be afraid of the complexness of studying wedding photography in the Beaches of northern Sydney. But as they read about the art associated with wedding photography there, plenty of people find it to be an enjoyable, rewarding activity. Take the advice that this article has offered to you, get a camera out, and you're ready to go!

For more on shooting in Sydney's pristine northern beaches, see wedding photography northern beaches and enquire today. Dan Au Photography has been servicing the northern beaches with incredible wedding photography. Check him out at wedding photography northern beaches

Original article

Wedding Ceremony Etiquette - Will You All Please Sit Down

With the rise of the smart phone technology, there has been a decrease in manners at wedding ceremonies, as now 50% of wedding guests are taking photographs. Professional wedding photographers used to only have to dodge two or three people, now it is just about everyone. Now ten people go for the same nice shot that the photographer is trying to take. Not to mention that you are at someones wedding, please sit down, and show some respect.

Please sit down

Let us start with the obvious, ladies, gentleman and children, please sit down.

I have been to hundreds of weddings, with outdoor ceremonies the seats are always empty, except the first row, which is usually direct family. Outdoor ceremonies have become very popular as there has been a decrease in religious weddings.

Everyone stands in a mob behind the seating taking photographs, some of the others sit in the aisle seat leaning out to take a photograph, pretending they are trying to courteous to the photographer and other guests.

Wedding Photographers Cost Money

Your hosts have hired a professional photographer as an investment into fantastic professional wedding images, their whole investment in photography is likely to cost $10,000 USD and some couples spend even more than that. Just think next time when you are getting that great shot at a wedding, the photographer is probably right behind you, thinking, "please get out of the way or the moment will be gone". Some moments only last a moment and happen only once.

The Main Dilemma

Photographers understand that guests are trying to be creative, it just isn't the place for it, the professional photographer is responsible for capturing these moments. You can imagine that when 50 people try to take photographs at the same time, this is no exaggeration, with there arms out at varying lengths depending on eyesight, it makes it more of a challenge.

I would expect guests to take images as the Bride walks down the aisle, get a nice kiss shot, get a posed shot of the couple with the certificate and some family group shots; constantly at every moment is just annoying and just a little disrespectful.

How many of those shots will be deleted, that day, to make room on limited space in the camera?

How many of the shots you have taking will get used?

These days photographers do share images on Facebook and other social media, it is easy to show the shots of your friends or relatives wedding on you own social media site if you wish. You will even be doing the professional photographer a favour if you like the wedding photographs on their Facebook page.

Solutions

- Take some key shots only (down the aisle, the kiss, holding certificate, family images).

- Sit down on one of the seats provided and watch the magical moment of someones wedding.

- Use images from the photographers social media site.

One of these solution would be preferable, than having a disclaimer in the contract that the couple signs that says they are responsible for guest behaviour with cameras and to let their guests know before their wedding. This doesn't solve the problem with guests getting in the way of the professional photographer, at least the photographer can't be held responsible for the action of guests causing bad photographs.

A bit of give and take is necessary from both sides to solve the problem. After all everyone wants the happy couple to get the excellent wedding images that they have paid for. All you need to do is sit down, it takes no effort at all.

Professional Wedding Photographer and facilitator. Mark has 20 year experience in photography, he has had a varied career, international band photojournalist, magazines and wedding photographer. Now principal and owner of Xpose' Wedding Photography, located in Brisbane Australia.

Original article

Lighting in Photography

Lighting is very important in photography as it helps create a great shot. Below are some basic photography tips for lighting.

Lighting is one of the most difficult things to achieve in photography. It is easy to ruin a perfect photo by having too little light, too much light or a combination of both. The perfect lighting in photography will include a broad light source. In fact, try to have as broad a light source as possible so as to achieve the softest light possible. With a narrower source of light, you will end up with harder light. With a broad light source, you have fewer shadows, suppressed texture and reduced contrast.

Backlighting is the light that comes from behind your subject. To avoid having your subject underexposed and transformed into a silhouette, be sure to use a fill-flash to fill in the needed light and chase away the shadows from your subject.

The brightness in side lighting comes from the left or the right of your subject. This has the effect of casting one side in complete darkness, while leaving the other side in the spot light. This is great if you wish to achieve a dramatic and mysterious portrait photo. An easy way to obtain such a shot is by posing your subject in front of a window, with one of their shoulders close to the window.

Diffused lighting helps you to avoid ending up with washed out light colors and contrasting shadows that are way too dark. As such, it is important to always wait until the sun goes behind a cloud. And if your subject can move, position them in the shade of a building or tree and then take the shot. If you cannot move your subject and there are no clouds in the sky, you could make your own shade simply by using an umbrella or a similar object.

Be careful with artificial lighting as this can cause various flaws in your photo. For instance, the flash in your camera can easily cause red eye if the flash is too near the lens. Camera flashes are also known to cast harsh light on the subject. However, with an off camera flash, you will be able to bounce the light and thereby achieve a softer effect. You should also be careful with regular indoor lights as these tend to give the image a yellow cast, unless of course you are using black and white film.

For more information on photography, please visit: http://www.photography-tips-and-resources.com/.

Joan One is a freelance journalist and creative writer who immensely enjoys writing and researching into any topic under the Sun. She specializes in writing "green" eco-friendly topics aimed at enabling environmentally conscious readers to find simple ways to reduce their carbon footprint and help save our planet.

Original article

Demand for Budget Photography on the Rise

With an increasing trend for online start-ups, less money is required to get a business on it's feet compared to an old fashioned bricks and mortar business. However, a large portion of an online start-up's capital still goes into photography, particularly for online retail shops that are relying on good photographs of their products to close the online sale.

With so much expertise and experience required for good photography, high hourly rates and studio rental have been justified and fueled by lenient budgets that existing businesses can afford. However, with the new wave of low overhead, low capital online businesses, comes an increased demand for more affordable photography solutions. To detriment of the photo quality? Initially, you may think so, but with rapidly decreasing technology prices and access to free online education resources such as forums and YouTube, we are witnessing a new generation of 'amateur' photographers with some intimidating skill and photography folios to boot.

Tight budgeted online start-ups coupled with an increasing trend for amateur photography and SLR cameras in the home, the perfect environment has been formed for some budget photography solutions. And this is exactly what we are seeing with small studios, offering great value for money popping up.

These more affordable business-to-business solutions are welcomed amongst the new generation of entrepreneurs, but maybe not by traditional photography studios who have enjoyed high fees for some time. Photography is just one these business-to-business solutions that is now accessible to low budget start ups. Web design, marketing, PR, and administration are all available at budget prices.

As online retail continues to grow, the demand for cheap, fast, flexible photography solutions will increase to keep up with constant rotation of products. The ability to have your inventory photographed quickly and inexpensively with defiantly provide an edge to online businesses.

Post production using Adobe Photoshop used to be another large cost, but can now be done offshore by freelancers who provide their services on websites like oDesk and eLance. Post production can be done for as little as 30 cents an image.

It is exciting to see the business-to-business solutions providers adapt to keep up with this wave of online retail start-ups and modern, low budget business structures. Particularly in the current economic climate, it is expected that clients will trying to save a dollar. So next time you are getting some quotes for photography and/or studio hire, be sure to check out some budget solutions.

Original article

Caring For Your Action Camera

The vast majority of camera care comes down to simple common sense, from things as basic as 'don't take it under water without a case on' to 'keep it clean'. Much of the following advice may sound obvious, but it should not be overlooked.

Protect your camera from the elements

An action camera's job is to capture footage in situations that a standard video camera would not cope with. Be it tearing though the Sahara at 100mph, snowboarding in a blizzard or cycling through three feet of mud, there will be an action camera up to the job. However, such hostile environments bring with them a number of harmful elements.

Water - too much exposure to water can be extremely harmful to certain cameras, but apply the appropriate casing and water and video can become a match made in heaven. From watersports themselves, to cycling in heavy rain, it's essential to apply a waterproof case to your camera. GoPro HD users may wish to use the GoPro HD Waterproof Housing and Drift owners could use the Drift Waterproof Case. So if you are planning on getting wet, be sure to invest in a suitable means of water protection for your action camera.

Shock - action by name and action by nature, action cameras would not be action cameras if they weren't subject to a degree of physical strain. While a camera mounted in the relative safety of a car will not require protection, an action camera mounted on the handlebars of a MotoX bike will be subject to regular batterings. To protect an action camera from severe impact, invest in purpose built protective casing designed to take the punishment of off-road racing. GoPro users should look no further than the GoPro Race Case.

Dirt and dust - many extreme sports, such as mountain biking will carry a degree of exposure to dirt or dust which can cause damage to a camera's lens. If partaking in a particularly dirty sport, apply the same principles as above by using a protective case where necessary.

Keep it clean

When you have finished using your action camera take time to clean it, paying particular attention to the casing and the lens. First, carefully remove any shards of rock or sand that could scratch the lens. Then using a damp lens cloth remove any other dirt from the area. To clean the casing, carefully work a damp cloth across the body until all grime is removed.

Even if your camera isn't caked in mud, it still pays to wash it with clean water as salt water or dust sitting on the camera can cause damage over time. Also be sure to regularly clean any casing or holdalls that could contain dirt, dust or rocks.

Use a suitable mount

Be sure to use a mount that has been designed for the task at hand. For example, if going surfing, be sure to invest in a specific surf mount that will keep your camera fixed securely to your board. If you don't then you may find your camera at the bottom of the ocean. Likewise, if attaching a camera to the bars of a Superbike, use a mount that will withstand wind impact at high speeds.

Also, be sure to invest in mounts that are designed for your brand of action camera. For example, if using GoPro HD, use purpose built GoPro mounts rather than that of another brand.

Modern action cameras, such as the GoPro HD, Drift HD or Bullet HD are all designed to withstand the strains associated with action sports, but it doesn't hurt to apply an extra level of protection. Take good care of your action camera and you could still be using it in many, many years to come.

Submitted by Matt Taylor, Marketing Manager at Action Cameras. For more information about the GoPro HD Hero2, Drift HD and Bullet HD action cameras and the accessories and mounts available for them, visit http://www.actioncameras.co.uk/.

Original article

Olympus E620 - One of the Best DSLR Cameras for Beginners

The Olympus E620 was designed for the artist in all of us. Let's release our creative side! We've been squelching it for too long now! Let it out! This Digital SLR camera lets us make the decisions, be the designer and create images so spectacular we're going to need a website to show them off. It was voted one of the best DSLR cameras for beginners in 2012.

This camera is light weight - 1.42 pounds with the kit lens, hood, battery, and CF Hood. It is easy to use and offers Art filters to experiment with and multiple exposures to choose from. It's one of the smallest cameras available. It's well built and study. It can easily be carried anywhere. It offers some of the best elements of the high-end cameras; like the flip-out rotating screen. The resolution is 12.3 mp. Many of the buttons are backlit to allow easier viewing in low light. It offers 28 preset scene-select modes.

This camera has a 7 focus point system. The screen is a 2.7 inch HyperCrystal III dual axis swivel LCD screen. Olympus has made a battery-grip in case the small size is a difficulty. The built-in image stabilizer has settings for pan action in both directions. It also has an underwater housing available.

Camera Highlights

Preview function which displays four live image frames on the same screen with varying exposure compensation or white balance settingsSupersonic Wave Filter (SSWF) dust reduction systemMulti-aspect shooting: a choice of nine different aspect ratios (four are offered during Live view - 4:3, widescreen 16:9 and medium-format 6:6 plus 35 mm format 3:2)Built-in flash with wireless off-camera flash controlTwo multiple-exposure options - a second image can be applied on a RAW image and then previewed on the LCD; also, three RAW format images can be combined togetherLightbox view with enlargement function for side-by-side image comparisonOptical viewfinder49-zone metering systemFace Detection & Shadow Adjustment to display highlights and shadows cleanly

12.3 mp Live MOS Sensor

It has a 12.3 mp Live MOS Sensor. This sensor has low noise levels, despite smaller pixels, because of improvements in the microlens and photo diode design.

Most DSLR's are 3:2 aspect ratios, which is good for a 4 x 6 print. However, if it was printed at 8 x 10, it would not have the aspect ratio it needs. This camera also offers 3:2, 16:9, and 6:6 aspect ratios. It offers continuous shooting up to four frames per second with unlimited burst depth with JPEG, and up to 5 RAW frames. Lower burst speeds can be set. Art filter effects can only be used with JPEG images. It will allow shooting in RAW & JPEG mode. The JPEG images will have the art effects and the RAW images will be untouched.

Auto Focus Modes

It has three auto focus modes in Live View.

AF Sensor -- Drops the mirror to use the traditional autofocus sensors. It loses Live View while the camera tries to focus. It may make things a little slower.

Contrast Detect - It uses contrast detect to focus so you don't lose Live View, then when you press the shutter, it drops the mirror, focuses with the auto focus sensors and take the shot. Much quicker!

Imager Autofocus - You can move the auto focus box around the screen or let the camera select from 11 areas on the screen. Even Faster!

Wireless Flash

The Olympus FL-36R and FL-50R wireless electronic flashes fit this camera. These flashes are designed exclusively for digital photography. They can be used together with the E-620. This camera can control up to three wireless flash groups independently, with multiple flash units in each group.

Storage and Battery

It comes with a BCS-1 battery charger. The new HLD-5 battery grip mounts to the E-620 for easier shooting and additional battery capacity it will hold two battery packs. The battery is a BLS-1 lithium-ion battery. This battery will take 500 shots when you use the optical view finder.

This camera offers an XD card slot and a CompactFlash card slot. Images can be copied from one to the other.

Combining Images

The Olympus E620 can capture images or combine two images into one and save the new image.

The first image will appear on the LCD screen while you're shooting the first new image, and the two will be merged into the final image. Only one image can be merged in from the memory card, and it must be a RAW file.

Shadow Adjustment Technology

This camera offers dynamic range expansion, which they have named Shadow Adjustment Technology. This feature will adjust contrast to ensure the details are clear in high light and shadowed areas.

This camera offers the following Live View modes: Program, Aperture, Shutter, Manual, Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Flower, Sports, and Night Shot.

Face Detect Mode

It is great for large family photos. Face detection will focus on up to eight faces in the LCD. It automatically focuses and optimizes exposure for sharp, crisp portrait images.

Preview mode enables users to preview and select from a variety previews of the effects of white balance and exposure compensation adjustments before actually taking the picture.

Processor

This camera offers the TruePic III+ processor which integrates cool hardware features to accelerate the Art Filter processing.

The Art Engine adjusts exposure, color rendering, tonal range, and focus to achieve the final effect. The chosen effect is displayed on the LCD in Live View mode, in real time. The LCD display has a fairly rapid refresh rate.

Image Stabilizer

This camera includes the Super-Sonic Wave Filter Dust Reduction system, which vibrates a filter in front of the image sensor to remove the dust. The space between filter and sensor is sealed to keep dust out. This system will give you clean, dust free photos.

This camera offers a superior set of features, has more autofocus points, higher resolution, a faster frame rate, an articulating screen, and built-in art filters. The Olympus Zuiko Digital lenses can be used with this camera and will increase the optical quality. Olympus offers a great camera at a much more affordable price than its counterparts. The most desirable features are the tilt and swivel LCD and the new backlit buttons. While you're taking pictures, the Multi-Aspect function offers new ways to control your images and express yourself. With the 28 preset scene-select modes, automatic modes and full manual controls, the Olympus E-620 opens up a world of possibilities to the artist in all of us.

The advances in technology in the past few years are amazing. For a great Beginner Photographer Guide, Glossary of Terms, and Detailed Camera Reviews, visit: Best DSLR Cameras for Beginners.

Original article

Buying Nikon Coolpix S8200 Digital Camera Is A Good Decision

Nikon Coolpix s8200 digital camera has extended lens with flash. This is a super zoom camera from the house of Nikon. This camera was launched in August 2011 and has become a favourite among photographers. If you have decided to buy Nikon S8200 digital camera then you have made a smart choice. This camera offers almost all the features that one would require to take good photographs. This camera has been selling like hot cakes and photography lovers have been making a beeline for it since its launch. If you are searching for Nikon coolpix s8200 best buy then you should search the internet for best deals and bargains. This camera has lots to offer to its customers and you should make the most of it. Check out the details of the camera before you buy Nikon coolpix s8200. Here is a look at it features in detail:

The best Nikon coolpix S8200 Digital Camera

This camera has CMOS censor with back illumination. This feature helps in reducing the noise and improving the sensitivity which gives wonderful performance in almost any type of light. This camera has an optical zoom lens of 14x. This has an Extra-Low Dispersion or ED along with a spherical lens as well as High Refractive Index or HRI which offers a 35mm. This is equal to 25 to 350mm. The camera produces blur free images. For this, the camera is packed with Lens-shift VR, Best Shot Selector and High ISO. The high level of ISO reaches up to 10 shots in a sequence. If you are facing the problem of low light while taking pictures, there is no need to worry. You get low light modes with this camera which helps you in taking pictures in low light too. That means that there is no hassle of tripod stand too. With this you get 18 scene modes and Scene Auto Selector. You also get the advantage of Easy Panorama 360 degrees to 180 degrees, Filters, special effects and smart portrait system. You have additional features like red eye fixing, smile timer and skin softening features.

You get movie recording in full HD of 1080p along with stereo sound. The features like autofocus and optical zoom. You also have the option of capturing a picture while the movie is filming. Nikon coolpix s8200 gives the users an advantage of recoding at a speed of 15 to 120 fps. It also has support for HDTV.

I will help you buy a camera with more benefits and good luck with the choice of Nikon. Choose the right and see the possibilities in detail before you purchase Nikon Coolpix s8200.

Original article

Film Photography Techniques

Today, there are digital stock photography tips and film photography techniques for digital and film photographers respectively. In order to create stunning photographic images, every film photographer needs to apply some basic film photography techniques. These include:

1. Composition is one of the most important techniques in film photography, which makes the difference between mediocre and professional shots. Before capturing image to film, you must always take composition into account. For instance, those learning how to photograph art should properly balance shapes and diagonals to maintain interest, cropping, as well as bringing the subject to the foreground.

2. Depth of Field is the distance between the foreground and background of the subject which remains in focus. This is a basic technique of photography which is handled with the aperture setting of the film camera and the subject's focal distance. For a shallow depth of field, you require a clear focus on your subject, and the out of focus areas around it. For a great depth of field, everything will be in the frame in focus.

3. Motion photography will enable you to capture motion. It is possible to capture motion using various techniques, as well as varying shutter speed settings. To capture frozen motion photography, you will require a fast shutter speed to enable you to capture your subject during movement in an image that is in focus and perfectly sharp. A tip on how to photograph fireworks displays through blurred motion photography is to use slow shutter speed.

4. For night photography, you will require long exposures and a lot of patience. This technique can prove difficult when it comes to figuring out the proper aperture and shutter speed settings. You may have to use a handheld light meter because many 35mm film cameras do not have a light meter to provide you with accurate readings for your night photography.

5. Landscape photography will require sharp detail achieved through slow shutter speeds and small apertures. With landscape photography, the possibilities are endless. All you need to do is follow the simple rule of composition with a foreground, background and middle ground. In order to learn how to photograph landscapes well, be ready to walk to various spots and patiently wait for the right lighting to fall on your scene.

6. For wildlife photography, you will need a handheld camera and pretty fast shutter speeds. Use a long camera lens to take close photographs of wildlife without getting too close to startle or cause them any harm. With a zoom lens, you can zoom in on birds which are likely to be higher than you.

7. For winter photography, you will need to overexpose your film so as to bring out the white of the snow.

For more information on photography, please visit: http://www.photography-tips-and-resources.com/.

Joan One is a freelance journalist and creative writer who immensely enjoys writing and researching into any topic under the Sun. She specializes in writing "green" eco-friendly topics aimed at enabling environmentally conscious readers to find simple ways to reduce their carbon footprint and help save our planet.

Original article

Photography Trends And Tools For 2012

The photography world is in a constant state of evolution and flux. As the technology available to both professional and amateur photographers is changing every year, there has never been a period that is so exciting for those people who are passionate about this art as what is being experienced today. Keeping abreast of the latest trends and tools coming from Asia is an interesting topic. As it is no longer a uni-polar world, today's culture is influenced as much by the East as it is from the West.

One of the most interesting developments over the last twelve months has been the growth in the use of the iPad as a cool tool for photographers. Although this 'must have' Apple gadget will never replace such software as Photoshop and Elements, its ability to be used to edit images when on the go is a real attraction. What's more, it offers the option to quickly upload and share images and video in an easy-to-carry package.

HDR is a concept that has gained a lot of ground during the last few years, it has become a format that is being experimented with in a big way by photographers throughout Asia. Though the basic idea behind High Dynamic Range photography may be obvious, up until fairly recently it has been hard to get it right with digital technology. HDR involves taking a number of photographs at different exposures which when combined create a single image that captures that entire dynamic range of a particular scene.

Every year technology improves; this is one of the great boons of this modern age. Photographers now have the option of using super-zoom lenses. The trend for ultra detailed snapshots can be seen in many of today's best portfolios. Some of the results that have come about as a result of using super-zoom lenses are truly staggering.

Digital infrared may not yet be a format that is used widely, but it is a style that is certainly gaining ground. Experimenting with this medium can produce extremely dynamic images that capture sights and scenes in ways that have not been possible before.

On a final note, the love affair for black and white remains as strong as ever. There are legions of Asian photography professionals who practice their art using only black and white images. Thanks to the inherent affordability of today's digital cameras, there is a new demographic group who are now producing the most spectacular photographs using this most enigmatic and traditional format.

You can find more information about the latest trends in Asian photography and learn how to create HDR photos at http://www.photokore.com/ now.

Original article

How to Choose a Wedding Photographer

Choosing a Wedding photographer is an extremely important decision. It is important not to go for the cheapest or the easiest option. This is because the photographs will be with you forever; they are the memories of the best day of your lives.

When choosing a wedding photographer it is important to have a clear idea of what type of photographs you want, do you want Reportage Wedding Photography that will report the story throughout the day or is a contemporary wedding photography more your cup of tea?

A photographer's website is a clear indication as to what type of photographer they are. If it is a bright, attractive, clear website it is a very good indication as to how they approach their photography. On the other hand, it is a boring, cheap website with very little work being put in to it then their photography may well follow suit. Photographer's use their website to sell their business, as with anything, follow your first instinct.

Ask the Wedding Photographer for a portfolio of work that he has done for other clients and ask for examples of the style of photography that you want. It is important to meet a few different photographers to find one that you feel comfortable with, that you feel comfortable approaching with ideas and are confident that they will take the ideas on and implement them exactly how you would like. Don't be scared to ask for some clients names and telephone numbers that the photographer has worked with before to get a good feel for how they are to work with. The photographs in their portfolio might look incredible but they could be unreliable or awkward to work with. Best to find this out in advance rather than the big day.

Once the wedding photographer has a clear idea of what you require from them it is time to discuss cost, again it is important to meet a few photographers in order to ensure that value for money is being received. Very often photographers charge based on what they think they should charge, not how much their work is worth. Once you have met with a few photographers you will have a good idea of what they charge for what standard of work you can expect.

On the big day itself if it is reportage wedding photography you are after you will want the photographer to be there from the start to report you getting ready and travelling to the venue. Sometimes two wedding photographers can be useful, one to report the bride and one to report the groom.

Regardless of what type of wedding photography you decide on it is important to keep in regular contact with the photographer, running ideas off each other and pointing out any areas that you feel they are missing, are they getting enough family shots? Are they getting up close and personal or are they standing off? Are they putting in to practice what you discussed before the wedding?

Remember, these are photographs that are going to stay with you forever. You have to make sure they are going to turn out exactly how you want them, after the wedding it is too late.

Once the Wedding Photographer has done his work and the big day is over it is now time to decide how you want to receive the photographs. The cheapest option is to have them put on a compact disc and sent to you but is this really how you want your wedding photographs to be delivered?

A great way to have this done is to get the wedding photographer to take as many photographs as he can and then send them to you. You can now go through all of the photographs and decide which ones you want to keep and which ones you don't. The wedding photographer can now collate all the final photographs and put them in to an album that you both like.

The album might not seem like a huge deal but it will probably be the only one you will ever buy so have a look at what the photographer can offer. If they don't have anything that you fancy you can always buy one yourself and give it to them to populate for you.

You will now get all of the photographs that you want delivered to you in the album that you want. This in my opinion is the best way to receive the photographs that tell the story of the best day of your life.

Oh and don't forget the disc to make copies for the family!!

If you ate looking for a Wedding Photographer Kent then please visit us at Wedding Photography Kent

Original article

Photography and Video: Short and Long Lighting

Short and long lighting are techniques used to bring out the best qualities of your subject. These techniques can also be used on objects but let's talk about faces here. The face can be classified in one of three shapes; narrow or oblong, triangular or heart-shaped and round. No face is exactly any of these but they are more one than the other. Working with the face is a good way to improve your ability to see the natural shapes within a subject but that's another lesson. In most lighting schemes the aim is to make the face look triangular. If you find this idea to be superficial, or worse, untrue, think of this. Most hairstyles are cut to frame the face in a triangular shape. When people look in the mirror they tend to turn their face so it presents them with a triangular appearance. Maybe not when you're concentrating on a task in the bathroom mirror but catch a glimpse of yourself in a store window and notice your reaction. Of course the first thing is you'll do is stop slouching and suck in your gut, then you'll turn your head slightly to one side or the other.

No one wants to look at a mug shot of themselves or anyone else; unless it's the only picture you have of a loved one. So when you're posing a subject you will turn one side of the face slightly closer to the camera. This is very slight in an interview situation or it can be very extreme in a portrait or artistic sitting. The side of the face closest to the camera's lens, no matter how slight that may be, is the long-side. The side of the face furthest from the camera's lens is the short-side.

Now, even though you may be using more lights, let's just talk about two of them: The Key Light, your brightest light, and The Fill Light. Look at your subject and decide on the shape; does it tend to toward being round or oblong? This is easier to see with women since they will have already done most of the work with their hair styling. But it's still important for you to identify it. Then at least the two of you are working together.

Now for the simple part. If the face is oblong shine your brightest light, which is your Key Light, on the Long-Side of the face, the side closest to the camera's lens and your Fill Light on the Short-Side. This will give the face what it lacks: fullness. If the face is round place the Key Light on the Short-Side and your Fill Light on the Long-Side. This will slim the face.

This works on people, dogs, cats, oranges, bananas, jewelry, cars, whatever. Identify the shape. Identify what you want to do with it. Then do it.

Thanks for listening.

Joseph Valentinetti is an author of novels: fiction and fiction based on fact. He writes articles on a variety of subjects, from impressions of travel spots to speculating about the name of the moon, but his focus is on his writing and author interviews. Get better acquainted at http://www.valentinetti.com/. Join his site and get a free booklet on photographic lighting. Pick up his feed and become part of the dialog. Read A Book.

Original article

Stock Agencies and the Independent Photographer - Can't We All Get Along?

Over the past few years most independent photographers have felt a decline in their business due to the rising availability of stock images. While this is disappointing, it's understandable given the vast selection, easy access and immediate availability of stock photography. As a photographer who is represented by Getty Images but also runs my own independent studio, I can relate to the pros and cons of both business models.

Fortunately for independent photographers, there will always be images needs that cannot be served by a stock catalog. Companies will always need portraits of their executives for annual reports and public relations. Magazines will always want exclusive shots to bring to life the latest fashions, destinations or celebrities. New product catalogs will always need images of the latest packaging and offerings.

But what about a client with an image in mind that may not be completely custom? For example, perhaps they need a simple shot of a few office workers huddled around a laptop. Certainly many options would be available to them simply by perusing the stock agencies catalogs. But is this the best approach? Maybe yes, maybe not.

The answer lies in what the usage will be for that image, how important exclusivity is to the client, and their budget. Clients may find, depending upon how they intend to use the image, the cost of a stock photo may meet or exceed the costs of hiring an independent photographer to shoot a custom image. They also need to consider the reality that stock images are available for the use of anyone willing to pay the fee. This could mean that the image they choose of the crowd around the laptop could later appear in their competitor's advertising, or on the website of an organization with dramatically different values.

Cost is always of concern to clients from organizations of every size. One advantage the independent photographer offers is their ability to be flexible on pricing, and if they are so inclined, to offer reasonable price discounts for non-profits or small businesses. Stock agencies, unfortunately, offer only a one price for all pricing structure.

Earlier this month I worked with a client who wanted an image of a message in a bottle (a weathered bottle with a note inside, appearing to have just washed up upon the beach). Several options were available from a leading stock agency, but given the fact that the client intended to use the image on large format signage the licensing costs were quite high. I was able to create a custom image, including space for copy to be applied, and charge the client for all the licensing they needed for less then half the price of stock.

For clients under time constraints, nothing can replace stock's ability to offer an image for immediate use. And for those needing images that are not at all feasible to shoot custom, for example, Neil Armstrong walking on the moon or the Taj Mahal at sunset, stock will always be the preferable solution.

However, for clients who value exclusivity, and who know that stock may not always be the less expensive option, custom photography is the way to go. Luckily there are great options for either solution readily available to all.

By Richard R. Brown

Richard Brown is the principal of Richard Brown Photography. http://www.richardbrownphotography.com/

Richard Brown Photography
http://www.richardbrownphotography.com/

Original article

Understanding Panorama Stitching and Its Techniques

Image stitching is a technique that several regular size images are located on a wide-angle picture. It is a very complex technique that can't be done all over the world. Requires an individual look carefully on an image and fix the basics before you begin to reconcile them. Graphic editors who work on Photoshop will gather images and give us a 360 degree view of the open place you want to appear on websites. View is the best way to convince a customer to buy real estate. Panoramic view is more prominent in the field of real estate.

Panorama tools are used to stitch on the panorama. It provides a solid framework for re-projecting and more source immersive panoramic images of many types of fusion. An updated version of the Panorama Tools Library serves as a base for many software panorama GUI front-ends underlying engine. Panorama view serves as a virtual e-tour of the location on websites. Real estate owners/brokers have found panorama images have a better appeal in comparison with the normal images of their property. Competition is excess in today's world and it is important to display attractive prospects on the website to attract potential buyers, especially when it concerns with real estate.

These are some of the high quality Panorama stitching techniques:
1) Horizontal Panorama Photographs
2) Vertical Panorama Photographs
3) Square Panorama Photographs
4) Circular Stitching Panorama Photographs
5) Full Frame Image Stitching Photographs
6) Rectilinear Image Stitching Photographs

In each photograph, different techniques are applied:
• Removal and Replacement of Colors
• Removal of Spots and Shadows
• Remove unwanted Switch board and wires
• Removal of Camera Flashes

In addition to this, Photographs require to be checked on the following regard:
• Positioning of Images
• Application of Photo filters
• Adjusting the curves and levels
• Apply major Color Binding
• Enhance the Depth and Definition to the images.

Image stitching can be a herculean task. To create a panorama image and in multiple numbers, one has to master the resources in Photoshop. Adobe Photoshop has been one of the updated software which provides excellent tools for Image stitching services. This software has numerous features and based on the capabilities of the graphic editor an image can be transformed to get the desired outcome. Panorama stitching is stitching multiple images into a large panorama shot which requires great deal of time and effort. It also requires a lot of time and concentration to judge an image based on its stitching areas and create a panorama view. Adobe Photoshop provides tools to warp align and position the images to line them up correctly. The exact position is monitored and this provides Editors with a chance to correct other aspects of the picture like minor errors with color, contrast, light, distortions and more.

Considering the above circumstances, it is advisable to outsource Image stitching to an outsourcing agency. Outsourcing agencies hire capable graphic designers and expert Photoshop specialists who work to provide excellent panorama stitching services. Panorama stitching comes in handy for various organizations based on the products that need to be displayed online for marketing purposes. Real estate business has reached a new level with the invention of Panorama stitching since it has brought in a complete 360 degree view of the property. The 360 degree panorama view is one of most effective techniques to promote products and real estate properties online. It allows customers online to rotate and view the property in an all-new 360 degree perspective.

Abdul G has been working on Panorama Stitching for at least a decade and has written numerous articles on techniques and strategies on Panorama stitching.

Abdul Gaffar
Director
16/A, 2nd Cross,
C.N.R Layout, Babusapalya,
Kalyan Nagar, Bangalore,
India
Panorama Stitching Service

Original article

Top 5 Reasons That Make Nikon Bag the Number One Choice

Photographers are almost always with their most important device and that is their Nikon camera. Some invest large amount of money to buy the most sophisticated model in an aim to capture the tiniest of details in the most vivid manner. In the same fashion, they find the most appropriate Nikon bag to store and protect very costly equipment.

The bag has to be easy to carry but durable and strong enough to provide utmost protection. Photographers who pursue subjects that are worth capturing in still images avoid subjecting their cameras to impact and shock. This is why the make and strength of the carrier is important. It has to be functional too to accommodate accessories and other important photography paraphernalia. Removable parts should also be a top feature because this eases up customizing the compartments according to personal preference. This feature is also great when more storage is needed so that you don't need to buy an extra bag. All you have to do is remove a compartment or two.

Below are the top 5 reasons why a Nikon bag is the best camera carrier:

1. Compartments and Pockets

Mostly made with microfiber material for strength, compartments and pockets hold not only your camera but as well as the many accessories that go with it. There is no need for you to leave any essential behind because you can place everything you need for your photo shoot in one bag!

2. Ease of Access

Whether you plan to make lots of quick access during birding trips or leisurely shoot scenic views at your own sweet time, the camera bag has to provide quick access to your gadget and to your accessories. This is one of the best features of a Nikon bag because the makers of the bag understand how precious each picture-perfect moment is and being able to shoot right away is essential. You can also find a bag that features shoulder straps which may be converted to a waist belt.

3. Reliable Strength

It is not simply a matter of providing you a carrier but giving you peace of mind too that the bag can be counted on to carry the weight while providing protection. No photographer wants a bag that has a strap or a base that would suddenly give up on them especially while on the road. With a Nikon bag, all you have to worry about is making sure you are where the subject is at the perfect moment.

4. Wide Array of Choices

No matter what type of Nikon camera you may have, there is a camera carrier that is a perfect fit for it. If you carry with you all sorts of accessories, trust that you can fit them all in one bag. You may also choose two separate bags for convenience purposes or get a backpack so that your hands are free during hiking trips. Whatever type of bag you choose, you can be sure of the same, consistent quality.

5. Price

With designs, features, protective padding and fantastic functionality, you will be surprised that a Nikon bag is not that expensive! For your Nikon cameras, the prices are comparatively a very small price to pay especially with the kind of protection the bags provide. Made of quality nylon and buckles & snaps that are fastened securely, each bag is sturdy and built to last with ample safety features in the right areas.

Adrian Fields enjoys helping people understand the benefits of popular and useful products, such as Nikon Camera Bags. Learn more about selecting the right one, and why you should consider the camera protection of a Nikon Camera Bag.

Original article

Most Expensive Celebrity Photographs

Pictures are great for capturing memories. Now day's photos are an integral part of our lives with an astonishing increasing number of photos taken each year down mainly to the big rise in digital cameras which are coming down in price and getting better in spec all the time. At the end of 2011 it was estimated 2.5 billion people had a digital camera and let's not forget many phones have an integrated camera. It's estimated on average people will take 150 photos per year that's a massive 375 billion photos taken.

People like to take pictures of people and we love to see photos of celebrities. This is why the paparazzi are so relentless in their quest for photos of the most well liked celebs. We like to read up on what our favourite stars are doing but the price tag some photos fetch prove we love seeing pictures of them.

The market for celebrity photos is worth millions of dollars, and many celebs are cashing in selling. Some big stars are giving the paparazzi the slip by tipping off their favourite photographer or arranging for their own photos of births and marriages going to highest bidders. This gives the celebs total control and final say on the photos, there are also plenty of celebs who donate their earnings to charity like Jolie-Pitt a pair who regularly appear the most expensive celeb photos.

So what makes a photo worth millions?

The big magazines are willing to pay top dollar for photos which the general public are interested in. Having the latest photos 'never been seen before' is going to help boost readership in a fiercely competitive market. There has to be something surprising, newsworthy or an emotional component involved for a photo to start a bidding war between the magazines.

One photo which definitely had the emotional element was a photo which fetched $400,000 of Anna Nicole Smith with her son taken hours before he died. It was emotive and newsworthy as it is connected to such a terrible tragedy.

We love the latest on celeb's love lives. A photo of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt was sold for $500,000 in 2005 which depicted the two on an African beach. Although no affection was being shown between the two, the photos were seen to be validation of a rumoured romance between the Mr. and Mrs. Smith co-stars, after Pitt who had at the time of the snaps had recently split from his then wife Jennifer Aniston.

One the most expensive celeb photos ever sold was the Jolie-Pitt photo of biological daughter baby Shiloh Nouvel. People magazine reportedly spent $4.1m on this photo. This doesn't include the $3.5 million Hello! magazine UK also paid. The two donated the proceeds to African children charities.

We all love a wedding and so do OK! magazine who spent a massive $3m back in 2005 on Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher's Wedding Photos. OK! also bought the pictures from the lavish wedding of Desperate Housewives star Eva Longoria and NBA all-star Tony Parker. The wedding photos of the big day in Paris sold for a reported $2 million.

For as long as these stars are in the spotlight we will want to see images of their most intimate moments.

Original article

Each Camera Lens Serves Its Own Purpose

Whether you are a seasoned photographer or if you are just starting out, it is important that your camera has the right lens. When looking for that perfect lens you need to keep in mind what you want your final image to look like after the shot. Different lenses do different things, for instance, some can compress the background in your image, can make the scene look wider or show the tiniest of details that generally go unnoticed upon first glance. Some of the lens options you can find will include zoom lenses, ones that have a fixed focal length and then of course specialty lenses that are macro or fish eye.

The zoom lens are used by many photographers to get up close and personal with their subject without having to physically move in on the subject. These are often used for wildlife scenes and very often in sporting events. You can choose from ranges such as 70-200 mm, 100 to 400 mm or 200 to 500 mm in order to capture a variety of different kinds of close up shots that can focus on a subject as well as compress the background of the shot to a soft blur.

You can use the wide angle lens to help create shots that are in narrow spaces. For example take a large family group shot in a small living room and you can get wall to wall coverage of the entire family with the wide angle lens. You can pick from a fixed focal length like a 24 mm or 35 mm or you can go for a wide angle zoom lens that can be found in 17 to 35 mm and 21 to 35 mm.

If you need to take a photo that is extremely sharp then you would want to use a fixed focal length lens. You can pick from 200 mm, 300 mm or the 500 mm for your subject that is rather far away. Pick from the 24 mm, 35 mm or 70 mm fixed focal length for those subjects that are only a few feet away from your camera.

If you are interested in getting close up details of small objects like the veins in a leaf on a plant or other small objects then you would want to use the macro lens. You can manually rotate this lens by using the focusing ring to make the images look a lot sharper in a close up shot and to get all the tiny details you are looking for. You can pick from the more common ones as the 70 mm or the 135 mm.

Now, if you are looking to distort a scene and to capture a wide almost panoramic view say of an outdoor scene or a crowd scene you are going to want to try using the fish eye lens to accomplish this. You can pick a 10 mm, a 12 mm or a 14 mm lens if you are taking shots of things that are wider than an 180 degree overall view.

When you go out to look for the lenses that you want to work worth, you need to understand that each camera brand has their own specific mounting system. So, you will need to pick lenses that are going to mount to your kind of camera. Different lenses are never interchangeable between the different camera brands.

For more information about camera lens, please visit my website.

Original article

Nikon D5100 DSLR Delivers Superb Images

For the non-professional, the Nikon D5100 D-SLR (Digital-Single Lens Reflex) camera (16.2 MP, DX-format, CMOS sensor, 4 fps continuous shooting, 1080p HD movie) is an excellent all around product especially when coupled with the Nikon 18-105 mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR ED and 70-300 mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor zoom lenses. For many, this camera will provide everything needed without having to reach up to the more expensive Nikon D7000.

The image captures from the D5100 using either the 105 mm or the 300 mm glass are very high quality. The D5100 has the same image sensor as the D7000, which is an extremely nice benefit. When going out for a day capturing images it is nothing to snap two to four hundred clicks, and relatively few of them ever need to be deleted while they are on the memory card in the camera or later once they have been downloaded to either a pc or laptop.

The settings and functions are easy to learn and use. The additional "Scenes" and "Effects" features have delivered as Nikon promises. The selective color function is especially nice and works exceedingly well while being only hand-held without the assistance of a tripod. The results are quite remarkable considering the unit essentially snaps two photos. That, in itself, says much about Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) capabilities. However, the best thing about selective color is how effortless it is to learn.

The High Dynamic Range feature allows the user to bring together scenes with deep contrasts by combining the two exposures with rich color and texture. Also available in the D5100 is Active D-Lighting, a feature that equalizes the differences between high and low light areas in an image.

With a well-placed Start button, the D5100 full HD mode delivers a very high-quality movie (up to 22 minutes of 1080p HD) utilizing full-time autofocus and good sound recording quality, which can be greatly enhanced with an optional stereo microphone (Nikon ME-1).

Even though the D5100 has Liveview there are those who will prefer use of the viewfinder, but, either way, the camera should live up to all expectations when framing an image. The 3" 921,000-dot LCD display is a great size and the color clarity is superb. The addition of the articulating display was brilliant on Nikon's part as it assists framing many difficult shots (overhead, waist, ground level, etc) with relative ease.

For the money the D5100 cannot be beat for quality of performance.

Scott D Welch
Manager. Educator. Wordsmith. Photographer.
Certain Points of View™
http://www.scottdwelch.com/

Original article

How to Photograph Landscapes

Good photography techniques can enable you to capture stunning shots in the surrounding landscape environment. Below are some tips on how to photograph landscapes.

One important rule in landscape photography is to ensure that as much of your scene is in focus as possible. An easy way to do this is by choosing a small aperture setting with a large number, as this will provide your shots with a greater depth of field. Think carefully about the foreground of your shot and place the points of interest in them. This way, you provide those viewing the photograph a way into your image, while also providing the image itself with a sense of depth.

It is important to use a tripod when taking landscape shots as this helps to ensure that your camera remains completely still during exposure. Remember that because you will be using a small aperture, you will have a longer shutter speed which requires complete stillness. For added stillness of your camera, you should consider using a cable or wireless mechanism for shutter release.

Every good shot will have a focal point. A landscape photograph without a focal point will end up looking rather empty and leave your viewer's eye wandering through the image without a place to rest, and therefore moving on fast. For your focal point, you could have a building or structure, a boulder, striking tree, silhouette or rock formation. Ensure that you apply the rule of thirds to properly position your focal point.

The sky is also an important consideration in landscape photography. To avoid a boring shot, make sure that you have either a dominant foreground or sky. Do not allow a bland, boring sky to dominate your shot. Always ensure that your foreground is interesting. However, if the sky is filled with dramatic cloud formations and interesting colors, allow it to stand out by placing the horizon lower down. You may also enhance your skies during post production or by using filters that add contrast and color to your shot.

A great way to lead the eye of your viewer is by providing them with lines that lead to an image. With lines, your image ends up with depth, scale and can also serve as a point of interest by creating patterns in your photograph. Try and capture movement in your landscape shot so as to add drama, mood and create a point of interest. Good examples of these include waves on the beach, wind in the trees, as well as flowing water over a waterfall.

For more information on photography, please visit: http://www.photography-tips-and-resources.com/.

Joan One is a freelance journalist and creative writer who immensely enjoys writing and researching into any topic under the Sun. She specializes in writing "green" eco-friendly topics aimed at enabling environmentally conscious readers to find simple ways to reduce their carbon footprint and help save our planet.

Original article

Choosing a Digital Camera for Your Child

Which Camera Should You Get for your Child?

This article is divided into age groupings to help you decide what kind of camera would be best for your child. The age guidelines are simply a starting point, as kids progress at their own pace, and some will be more interested in "serious photography" than others.

Toddler through Early Elementary: What Kids Like About Cameras/Photography

Turning the camera on and off on their ownThe cause and effect of pushing a button and having something happenSeeing someone or something through an LCD displaySeeing themselves on the display or in a pictureDoing things like Mom and Dad

The Type of Photos You Can Expect to See:

Pictures of the floor, the ceiling or partial shots of people and objectsMultiple pictures of the same person or object

What to Look For in a Camera:

Since the first stage usually applies to younger kids, you'll want a sturdy camera designed for small handsCompletely automated features, including flash and focusA picture resolution/storage space combination that can hold a lot of photosControls that are easy to use and understand

Early Elementary through Middle School: What Kids Like About Cameras/Photography

Capturing favorite things, people and placesCapturing memories, such as vacations, field trips, birthday partiesBeing trusted with a digital camera of their ownPrinting pictures or using them for cards, journals and scrapbooks

The Type of Photos You Can Expect to See:

Posed and candid shots of friends, pets and family members MANY pictures from each life event, including field trips, vacations and partiesShots of themselves posing with friends or doing silly things

What to Look For in a Camera:

Easy to use and understandSturdy and inexpensive, in case it is dropped, lost or stolenMostly automated features, but some control over things like the flash and zoomGood resolution (clear photos), but not so high that the pictures eat up storage spaceJust for fun: special effects, such as captions, clip art, etc.Customizable camera cases and straps for the fashion-conscious

Middle School and Older: What Kids Like About Cameras/Photography

Capturing friends and favorite places or belongingsExploring sense of self with self-portraits and photos with friendsSelf-expression and a creative outletEditing photos and possibly creating scrapbooks, collages and journalsPrinting photos, using them on web pages or otherwise sharing them

The Type of Photos You Can Expect to See:

A lot of group shots, particularly of friendsMore artistic pictures of nature, architecture and peopleSelf portraits, either alone or with friends, that display different aspects of their personality.Expect to see more expressions of sexuality in the photographs as that is an important part of exploration for this age group.

What to Look For in a Camera:

A reasonably priced, adult-sized cameraControl over flash and zoom and possibly other more advanced featuresSome kids may still enjoy customizable faceplates or "fashion" camerasMostly automated features, unless they are showing a more serious interest in photographyExpandable memory options

The great thing about digital cameras is that you can easily download the pictures to your computer for viewing ( or deleting) without paying for prints. They can also be downloaded to a disk for storage, or printed at home.

Show your child the basics of how to operate the camera. Kids may even need to know what button to push, and where to place their hands, so that they are not blocking the viewfinder. Teach them the importance of light, such as making sure there's enough light to see what they're photographing. Teach them to have the light in front of the subject. Tell them not to point her camera into the sun. You may need to teach your child to focus the camera.

Show your child books of photography by famous photographers, including those that feature photos of children. Good examples are "In Our Time: The World as Seen by Magnum Photographers", any of Anne Geddes books or photos of babies, or any by Ansel Adams. If you have pets, any of William Wegman's dog books would be good to show them, as well. Point out the use of light in the books, how the photographer centered the subject in the photographs, and what there is about the photograph that makes it interesting or fun.

Take your kids to photo exhibits, or find ones suitable for your family online. Look for local exhibits by contacting studios or museums in your area. Ask the children to comment on the use of light and how the photographers created their images.

Print your child's photographs, and display them for her to see. Acknowledge all your child's efforts.

Let them come up with ideas for photo shoots or photo contests, that can include the entire family. You can suggest a "What Is This?" Contest.

What is that?

When taken close-up, many commonplace things take on weird, unusual, and otherworldly appearances--especially if they're shown upside down or at an unexpected angle. Even the family pet!

"What Is This?" mystery photos can be put on-screen on your computer as a slide show, and everyone can take turns guessing what is in the photo.

Or you can hold a Photo Exhibition, where you can invite family and friends over for snacks and an art showing. Kids love showing off their works of art!

Another idea is to make a jigsaw puzzle out of a photo print.The kids can print out a photo (on card stock) or paste a photo onto cardboard (to make it thicker), and cut into squiggly pieces for a puzzle the whole family can enjoy.

Let your kids have fun with their digital camera. Encourage them to photograph whatever subjects appeal to them. Answer their questions, and be there if they ask for help.

Leslie Uhl has a B.A. Photography from Art Center College of Design and has been taking photos for over 20 years.
Both of her children also love to take pictures, and this article is based on her experiences finding the right equipment for them.
To see some of her work, go to http://leslieuhlphotography.com/

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3 Quick Tips For a Better Business Portrait

There is no magic bullet when it comes to marketing your business. A culmination of many efforts is what turns a prospect into a client. A business portrait should be one of the many parts of your business's marketing and is one of the easiest and fastest way you can connect with your client base before ever speaking to them. Here's how you prepare:

1) Know your brand. Your business portrait should have the same overall feel and mood as the brand of your business. For example, many lawyers often prefer to convey a confident and solemn expression that conveys strength, dignity and knowledge. This helps them convey the right image for their prospects to let them know that they are right for the job. A pediatric dentist, on the other hand, might prefer an overall happy and approachable expression to attract parents that will trust them with their children. Tell your photographer what your business conveys and how you want your portrait to match.

2) It can be more than just a headshot. A quality headshot might be all you require but ask your photographer if other options are available. Your photographer might be skilled in environmental portraiture that will showcase you within your business setting, for example. Remember, a quality image is a great thing to have of yourself but a quality image that is unique can benefit your business even more. Just by doing something a little out of the norm will help you standout from your competition. Look up realtors websites in your area and just browse at the portraits of each agent. Many will be on a plain blue background but you might come across one that is taken outdoors in front of a home or in an office. Do what you can to be memorable. Your portrait is a good start at doing just that!

3) It's not going to hurt. Not everyone enjoys having their portrait created. Find a photographer you are comfortable speaking to as well as a photographer you enjoy the work of. You'll feel better about the entire experience if you are at ease and the end result will certainly show a more natural expression. Your photographer will have experience with speaking to many different people and will take great effort in getting to know you and learning about your business to best suit your needs. If your photographer makes no effort to do this, you might be better off looking somewhere else.

T. Nathan Grant has been a professional photographer for over 9 years and owns TNG Photography in Las Vegas, NV. He specializes in creating portraits of families, children, engagements, eagle scouts, business portraits, newborns, special events. You can see his gallery of portrait work at http://www.tngphoto.com/ and his high school senior work at http://www.tngseniors.com/

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Must-Have Equipment for Professional Wedding Photographers

When it comes to taking professional quality wedding images the lens is much more important than the camera body itself. This doesn't mean get the cheapest camera body that you can find, if you're on a tight budget and you can't afford to go full-frame, you should consider getting a semi-professional camera such as the Nikon D300. This article outlines different equipment used in wedding photography and the reasons why they are so important to have in your bag.

When you are responsible for documenting such an important day as someone's wedding day, there is no excuse for cheap equipment, this simply won't get the job done for the level of quality that is required, remember they will look back at these images throughout their entire lives! They're investing a lot of money in your services as a wedding photographer, so don't rip them off by using the cheap amateur equipment.

If you initially can't afford to buy that 24-70mm zoom lens or that professional body outright, then rent it! Most professional photography stores have a rental department. This is a great way to cut back on your outgoings while still providing a high quality service. This will help boost your reputation for the future, and help you save towards that professional camera you have been drooling over. Figure out the best rental arrangement for you. You can save money if you hire it for a few days in a row, this isn't a bad idea to hire it for an extra few days before the wedding day, so that you can master all of its settings, if you are proficient in using your camera this will boost your confidence on the day. Try to practice when there is no- one else is around, don't leave it till the actual day remember you'll be under pressure on the day, and It doesn't look good when you are fiddling with your equipment and the couple is waiting on you, they are paying for your time. Another thing I would recommend is mastering manual use of your camera, this is so you can create images how you intended them to be. If you want to underexpose slightly to shoot a nice silhouette shot you won't be able to if its in auto mode, as it automatically balances out the exposure.

Lenses with a wide apertures of f/2.8 up to as wide as f/1.4 or more are extremely valuable for weddings. These wide apertures enable you to use more available light, think about how dimply lit a church or reception hall can be. You don't want to risk having to boost your ISO so much that you lose too many details. So remember that big apertures are a strong tool for the wedding photographer. Another great benefit of using wide aperture lenses is not having to fire a flash. I wouldn't recommend shooting with a flash in the ceremony itself, its a very special moment for them so show them some respect. A lot of brides specifically request no flash in the ceremony or the location might have restrictions for flash photography. If you must use flash in the ceremony its always polite to ask the venue and bride just to be sure. I also see a lot of photographers firing a flash directly into a someones face which isn't very flattering, there is normally always a surface around that you can bounce your flash from, using a white ceiling or wall to act as a giant soft box which creates a much better quality of diffused light. Although its best to try to use the available light as much as you can.

A lot of photographers prefer to carry only zoom lenses in their bag, this saves a lot of running around to position for their shot. I prefer with work with mostly primes, as prime lenses are available in wider apertures the end result is the subject appears much better separated from the background, this enables you to draw your viewers eye. This method of photography makes it easier for you to tell a story with your images. It creates more powerful images with minimal distractions.

For wedding photography lenses I would recommend covering a focal length from 24-200mm. 24mm is wide enough to provide expansive views of the ceremony and reception, and 200mm has enough reach to get a nice closeup of the bride or groom from the back of the church.

Here are some different types of lenses used in wedding photography.

Wide-Angle lens

The wide-angle length typically covers focal lengths between 10-24mm. This lens is very important when it comes to wedding photography. They are wide enough to show the entire view of the church or ceremony location, wide-angle lenses also make it possible to photograph in confined spaces, such as the bride's dressing room or a packed dance floor. The wide perspective creates a sense of expansiveness and grandeur by showing the entire church or ceremony location. Wide angle lenses on a full frame body provide the best results, if you have a cropped sensor keep in mind that a 10-20mm lens will give a similar view to a 24mm on a full frame body.

Wide-to-Telephoto Zoom

The wide-to-telephoto lens such as the 24-70mm or 17-55mm are considered the most important lenses for wedding photography. They are wide enough to take a group photographs, and also three quarter length portraits, if you had to choose just one lens to shoot an entire wedding this would provide you with the best coverage.

Image-Stabilized Telephoto Zoom

Telephoto zoom lenses have a focal length of 70-200mm. If your style of wedding photography is an unobtrusive, photojournalistic style, then this is the lens for you. Its a great for ceremony's, as you don't want to be in the way of the guests, you can still get a great portrait shot of the bride and groom at the altar from the very back of the church. You can also capture the bridesmaids or groomsmen as a group without having to swap lenses.

The f/2.8 maximum aperture of these lenses gives you the option of narrowing the depth of field, keeping the viewer's attention on the in-focus subject while blurring the background, and the Image-Stabilization mechanism will give you razor sharp images when taking shots fully zoomed in and taken by hand. The only downside to these great lenses is that they aren't cheap by any means.

Prime Lenses

I love working with wide aperture primes, they give a beautiful depth of field and an advantage when working with available light. You can shoot at f/1.4, which will cover even some of the darkest areas. Here are some popular prime lenses on the market.

24mm f/1.4 This lens was recently released by Nikon. It is an amazing lens, you can take great venue and ceremony shots, even though it is a wide angle lens you can still manage to get subject separation from the background and great quality 'bokeh' out of focus areas at an aperture of 1.4.

50mm f/1.4 An affordable lens. This lens is great for the bridal preparation shots, and detail shots such as bouquet, rings, shoes etc. It also covers closeup portraits, and small group shots.

85mm f/1.4 This is the classic focal length for portraits. It also provides a beautiful and creamy quality of 'Bokeh', which is how the out of focus areas appear.

These lenses perform at their best on a full-frame body, although you can still produce some great images on a small sensor camera. As I said before, the if you had to choose between getting a new camera body or a professional lens of the same value, I would recommend the lens hands down. You will notice a much bigger difference in the quality of your images.

A good combination of lenses for a wedding is a couple of fast primes such as a 24mm and an 85mm, and a 70-200 telephoto-zoom lens. The 24mm covers you for expansive venue and ceremony photos, and group photos. The 85mm produces great quality portraits and couple shots, and the 70-700 will give you the speed and length that you need for great candid photography, and ceremony shots at the altar and coming down the isle.

You might also consider getting a quality macro lens for amazing detail shots like wedding rings etc. 105mm is a good option.

If you carry all of these lenses in your kit you will be able to capture the day at its best. Of course you need to have an eye for photography and many will argue that its not the equipment its the photographer which is true, the reason I express that professional lenses are such a valuable part to carry in your kit, is solely for the image quality. These lenses will make a big difference as to how professional your portfolio appears to viewers.

Camera body

There are many advantages in carrying a professional camera body. Some of the main benefits are high ISO capabilities which will give you a higher shutter speed in low light situations, and some full frame cameras feature incredibly high megapixels such as the Nikon D3x, which is great if you get a lot of orders for larger wedding prints. For wedding photography I would say that a high ISO camera like the Nikon D3s is more beneficial, having this capability means that you will be able to capture every moment in any lighting situation without fail, and without having to constantly work with flash. Carrying a professional body for wedding photography also means higher shutter speeds, enhanced colour replication, quicker menu access using dials instead of buttons, and of course the benefits of a full frame sensor. Other benefits include wider range of view, reduced image noise, reduced lens distortion. Small sensors have a 1.5 ratio crop factor which artificially magnifies an image. The downside is that this magnification brings out all of the flaws in the lens, but there is a also a big advantage in having a 1.5 crop sensor. When you attach a professional full frame lenses you can potentially get the equivalent of a 400mm lens from a 200mm lens. A professional 400mm lens can cost you upwards of 8k.

When photographing a wedding, I cannot express how important it is to carry a backup camera. If you are unable to afford a full frame camera as a backup, a small sensor body will do nicely. Or considering hiring a backup camera.

Flashes and Accessories

Another important thing to consider with wedding photography is carrying an off camera flash. Whether it is on a stand or held by an assistant, you need to be very fast in putting it all together, its a good idea to practice the controls as home, and do plenty of testing so that when it comes the day itself you don't have the bride and groom waiting on you. Speedlights with TTL in combination with wireless remotes such as pocketwizards are a good option. Speedlights are very portable, although don't provide as much output as studio monolights. When using pocketwizard remotes you can attach 3 or more speed lights. They are triggered via a radio transmitter, this means that they don't need to be in line of sight to your on camera transmitter/ reciever, so you can put one inside a building or around a corner for example and it will still fire via the remote. Its a very powerful tool but takes a lot of practice to master well. When considering a speed light you should make sure that it has a rotating the flash head. This is so that you can also use it as an on camera bounce flash, to bounce off ceilings etc.

An important accessory to carry when working with off camera flashes are diffusers such as soft boxes or umbrellas. I find soft boxes to be much better when it comes to location shooting as umbrellas blow over with the slightest gust of wind, you can get sandbags for them but this means its just more weight that you'll be carrying throughout the day which just isn't practical. You want to streamline your equipment as much as you can. Working with a small portable soft box that you can carry off camera is a good solution. Ideally you should have an assistant hold this for you, or use a flash stand. A single properly executed off camera flash with diffuser is more than enough to provide stunning couple portraits with a beautiful quality of light, that softly highlights them and 'pops' the subject from their background which creates a more dynamic image, this is a particular advantage when the weather doesn't cooperate. You can still create great images when its a miserable and dreary day.

You can get great shots using just a single off camera flash, although you need to have perfect placement. Consider using 2 or 3 flashes. You can create so many great effects with off camera flash, including rim lighting, and highlighting different surfaces as well as the subject, there are also flash gels that you put over the flash head to output different colours like red or blue, flash gels are also used to balance the flash with ambient light, such as tungsten or flouresent.

Camera bag/jacket

Consider a bag with wheels. Doing wedding photography is hard work, it doesn't help when you are hauling heavy gear with around with you. You want to make this as easy on you as possible so you can focus on the job at hand. Camera jackets are a great solution, all of your lenses are readily available to you anywhere you go, you can fit up to 4 lenses in a single jacket!

With wedding photography you need to be confident and full of ideas on the day. So you need to make sure you know your equipment like the back of your hand before you take on the job of photographing someones wedding day. Take plenty of time to practice your new equipment and read the instruction manuals carefully beforehand so that on the actual day you are quick and ready to capture all of the special moments as they unfold.

Melissa Fiene is a wedding photographer based in Sydney Australia. She produces high quality images, providing contemporary, and natural style wedding photography. To view her work please visit http://www.melissafiene.com/

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How To Choose The Best Camera Lens

Largely your digital camera's lens affects the ultimate shooting results of the device. Therefore, it is extremely important to have a clear plan before you decide to purchase camera lens for any model or type of camera. Your personal method for the process will assist you to eliminate the trivial aspects and concentrate on the aspects that are important for a better shooting experience. Figure in important factors, such as the focal distance, aperture, toughness, cost and zoom operation. Here is a detailed look at these factors and their variety of relevance when you set out to purchase a digital camera lens.

Brand of the digital camera lens

The brand is noteworthy to help you deal irrespective of a few areas of the transaction about which you might not have an expert idea. With top producers, you are able to get the promise of trustworthiness and expertise, which defines the brand. You should however, compare your brand options considering other factors discussed here. This will give you the ideal choice for your final purchase.

Major kinds of lenses

The cam lenses can be primarily categorized in two classes - The zoom lens and the prime lens. Prime lenses can give you a great resolution but you just can't enlarge the image by zooming. Zoom lenses do not require regular lens shifting for taking various kinds photos.

Focal length:

Varied types of photography, that include landscape photography, wildlife photography and sports photography etc. will have specific demands when it comes to the camera lens. The focal length of the lens is what distinguishes the quality of each kind of photography. From time to time, the need may be to cover intensive grounds whilst there might also be times when the need might be to cover a scene from quite a distance away. Broad focal length lenses or telephoto lenses are simply some of the modifiers of focal length that you might possibly need to consider while you decide on the ideal digital camera lens for you.

Aperture of the lens

There are 2 types to consider- the wide aperture lens and the small aperture lens. For quicker photography, you need wide aperture lens to enable for greater light for every single shutter move. Narrow aperture lens are necessary for photography, where you would certainly have to screen a bit of the extra light, for example, outdoor photography.

Durability

The durability of the lens is important considering, usually, first-rate lens can cost you a bit high. Constant replacing of the lens definitely will only increase your budget and result in unwanted issues with your projects.

Affordability

It is a fact that camera lenses do not come very very low priced. However, depending upon their functionality, their price ranges can be rather validated. In addition, if you compare your lens options, you might possibly get the best quality offers on quite a competitive price. You should consider such reviews online to enjoy the most recent cost offers and bargains.

The fundamental performance of a worthy camera lens is responsible for the quality of your images. Trained photographers devote a large amount of importance to the various factors of evaluation of lenses and they generally connect the lens to their unique style of images. But, even for newbies in the area of study, it is significant to get your fundamentals correct. You need to invest the same amount of significance towards looking at and identifying ideal camera lens to improve your photography work. Since, there are quite a few camera lens brands in the market; you will have your pick of the selection.

If you want to know more about camera lenses visit Your Camera World. You will also find a deal of cameras and accessories along with reviews there.

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