Posts Tagged ‘Digital Photography’

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New Digital Camera Buying Guide

Sunday, February 21st, 2010

You are set to go buy your new camera. You’ve got your money in hand and you’re ready to start shopping. Before going off to purchase the most gleaming model you can afford, prepare yourself with the following essential buying tips.

1- Know yourself and why you need a camera. Consider your capabilities and interest in photography, and how a digital camera fits into your lifestyle. Different models are better suited for different situations. See if you might fit into one of the three photographer-types listed below:

Novice User: Are you new to the world of digital photography? Many low-cost point-and-shoot digital cameras include a range of standard features that are simple to learn and operate, making them an ideal choice for the beginning or casual photographer.

Intermediate Photographer: If you take a wider array of photographs — from quick snapshots to vacation photos to sporting events — you’ll need a versatile, full-featured camera that can handle a range of zoom scenarios, photo subjects, lighting conditions, and so on.

Serious Amateur: You’ve been taking pictures for a long time and are willing to pay more for the advanced features you can only find with a digital SLR camera with changeable lenses?

2- Decide your perfect camera style; point & shoot or DSLR. Make sure you understand the relative strengths and limitations of point-and-shoot and DSLR cameras, and which is best suited for the photos you want to take. Although there are areas where the lines between point-and-shoots and DSLRs are blurring, the two classes of camera still have their own distinctive features that make them well-suited for different situations.

3- Get a feel for the camera. Get a feel for the camera and take some pictures with it. You will get much more use out of a camera if you feel comfortable holding it and have no problems learning the controls.

4- MP (MegaPixels/Resolution) is meaningless. To get better pictures you want to a camera with a quality image sensor which is either a CCD or CMOS sensor.

5- Make note of the zoom and focus features. A high powered zoom lens gets you close to the subject but don’t use digital zoom, compare optical zoom capabiliites only. Having a highly automatic camera that does everything for you is great but having complete control over all the settings allows for more creativity.

6- Eliminate blurred pictures forever. A built-in image stabilizer can go a long way to eliminate blurred images. Electronic image stabilization is a good start, while optical image stabilization is even better.

7- Lower light capability matters. How well your camera performs in low light matters as much as how well it takes photos in bright sunlight. Cameras that have high ISO sensitivity (ISO ratings 800 or higher) will be better able to capture properly exposed images with reduced blur in dimly lit situations.

8- Take into consideration the high end features. Think about what additional technology features you want in your camera — such as face detection or in-camera retouching — to help you achieve better results and enhance your overall photography experience.

9- Accessories make the camera. Know what accessories you would like to use and what other devices you want to connect to your camera, such as an HDTV to view your photos, in order to make sure it has the right inputs and outputs.

10- Dare to shop and compare. Before deciding on a specific model, look at the models above and below it. If you do your research you might find upgraded features in one camera for only a few dollars more.

After you have decided which camera is the best one for you, further your education and love of photography by learning more about exposure and other tricks a little beyond the basics, or how to use Adobe Photoshop which will help you enhance your photos greatly with just simple fixes.

If you ever drop your camera or otherwise damage it, make sure you check around for an affordable digital camera repair shop online. The most commonly searched terms are Canon camera repair, Nikon camera repair & Sony camera repair when looking for somewhere to take your camera when it breaks. This is because Canon, Nikon and Sony have most of the market share when it comes to digital cameras, not because there is anything wrong with their products.

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The Great Debate: Digital Vs. Film Photography

Monday, February 15th, 2010

Ever since the introduction of the digital camera, a war has raged within the photography community. There are those that claim 35 mm film is the one “true professional” media and digital its casual counterpart. Conversely as costs go down and quality increases, there is an ever expanding group of professional photographers who shoot only in digital. So what is a consumer to think? Is 35mm still the way to go, or is it time to trade up for a new digital model? It’s time to look at each format and decide once and for all which is better.

Digital:  Amateur?
It is true that there are many digital cameras on the market, and like their 35mm counterparts there is an endless supply of variables that can impact the images each one is capable of producing. Image quality (in terms of depth of field and color contrast) has always been a major concern for those that choose digital and is still one of the most common excuses heard from the opposition. Add to this the fact that finding a digital camera that could match the sheer raw data contained in a photograph on film was both arduous and incredibly expensive, and the 35mm enthusiast has a fairly solid argument.

But fortunately for the consumer, the price of an excellent digital camera has dropped steeply in the last few years, while the “quality for the dollar” has increased dramatically. Canon’s popular “Digital Rebel” line of SLRS (single lens reflexes) have given people an affordable entry level camera with near professional results for under ,000. And since Canon isn’t the only camera company in the world, it’s a safe bet consumers can look forward to even better cameras at even lower prices as manufacturers double their efforts to be first in line at the retail counter.

35mm: Is it Antiquated?
In these modern times, why even use film at all? It’s certainly no secret that film has an unforgiving and often expensive learning curve, and recent trends show that more people prefer digital for just those reasons. After all, when taking pictures at an event like a Super Bowl, would it better to have the potential for thousands of pictures, or just the film you have with you? Sports Illustrated photographers answered that question by shooting over 16 thousand images in 2004’s bowl, entirely in digital.

However, just as some music enthusiasts claim that everything sounds better on a record, there are still photographers who think that nothing compares to a fresh roll of film. In fact, developing film manually and printing photos in a darkroom is one of the most rewarding and hands on photography experiences one can have. Sure, photos can be powerfully edited using tools like Adobe Photoshop to remove almost any imperfection, but clicking a mouse is very different than the tactile sensations of a darkroom. And of course, having someone else print up a roll of film only takes an hour or so.

And the Winner Is..
Neither! Based on the availability of technology and the vast resources devoted to this topic, there’s really no single point that wins this battle. As with many debates, the winner here is going to be entirely up to the needs and desires of the individual. Families wanting to shoot and print their pictures on the fly may choose digital due to its instant gratification and convenience, while others may stick to good old film so they can print up doubles and put them into family photo frames. No matter what you choose, in the end, people can still easily print out their pictures so they can hang them on the wall in collage picture frames or display them on a desk or dresser in a special unique picture frame.Thanks to powerful yet affordable innovations in digital and the classic, “do it yourself familiarity of film” the choice is now directly in the hands of the consumer- right where it belongs.

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Get a Top Budget DSLR Camera and get Happy!

Sunday, February 14th, 2010

For those looking to drastically improve their photography, finding the right DSLR can be difficult, especially if you don’t know what you are looking for. Here are 3 of the highest rated digital SLR cameras.

Should I buy a new DSLR digital camera online?

The decision to buy a DSLR camera is a major one because DSLRs are so much more expensive and the equipment is filled with features that can easily confuse you. Keep in mind, however, that if you want to take photography seriously, then it is important that you have your own DSLR. It gives you greater flexibility in your shots because you will be able to manipulate the settings of a DSLR. Here are the other features of a DSLR which you can’t find in a point and shoot:

1. Interchangeable lenses. Do you wish to try macro or sports photography? Now you don’t have to worry about buying a separate camera to do this. By changing lenses, you can now shoot different subjects,

2. Manual controls are important if you want to explore your skills but if you don’t wish to be bothered by settings, then you can use auto controls which are already built in with many digital SLRs being sold today.

3. DSLR cameras will come with higher ISO options so that you will get better shots in any lighting condition.

We do need to keep in mind that Digital SLRs can have drawbacks as well. Make sure you read this article about the pros and cons of a DSLR to determine if DSLR will fit your lifestyle.

Most people put off buying a DSLR because these are bulky and would need understanding of the basics of photography. But the biggest deterrent is the price. To buy the latest and greatest Digital SLR camera you will have to be ready to spend thousands of dollars. Thankfully there are many affordable and yet full-featured entry-level DSLR cameras.

What are the top budget minded Digital SLR cameras?

1. Nikon D60

Everyone loves a Nikon and those who were not satisfied with the D40 can opt for a more feature filled camera - the Nikon D60. It works the same way as a D40 so upgraders won’t have trouble using its features. The good thing about the D60 is that it has its own dust reduction system so you don’t have to worry about image quality even when you need to change lenses often. The kit lens produces great results and are the biggest improvement in this model.

Buy a new Nikon Camera online D40 with Lens for $640 on Amazon

2. Canon EOS Rebel XS

Also known as 1000D or Kiss F, the Rebel XS is said to be a reheated version of the 400D. This camera comes with a 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, an autofocus system and its shooting capacity at 3.5 frames per second. It has Canons newest technology - their Digic III processor. The box inclues a Canon EF-S mount 18-55mm zoom lens so that you can start taking pictures after you open.

The Rebel XS has a built in CCD cleaning system to help remove dust so that you don’t have to try doing it yourself. The CCD cleaning system is important to make sure that your image quality never suffers from spots.

Buy a Canon Rebel Camera online Rebel XS with lens for only $475 on Amazon

3. Olympus Evolt E620

When it comes to entry level DSLRs, the first name that will come up is Olympus. This camera has been called the “Canon T1i killer” so don’t be concerned that it’s not a Canon or Nikon. It is feature packed and is considered the best in its class. It has a live view system, and allow the user to shoot in different art modes - a feature adapted from the more expensive E-30. The best feature of the Olympus E620 is its Image Stabilization. Now you can change lenses anywhere but still get great shots without trouble!

Buy a new Olympus Evolt E620 Camera with two lenses for $652 on Amazon.

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You Can Repair Your Canon SD Series Lens Barrier Covers Yourself!

Sunday, February 14th, 2010

So many different people have asked us about fixing the built in lens covers/barriers/flaps on their Canon Powershot SD series digital cameras that I’ve gone ahead and written some instructions. The barrier kit on most Canon PowerShot SD series cameras is a little tricky but not impossible to replace yourself. You will need patience, a good eye and a steady hand as well as a small screwdriver. We’ve been using dental picks for some time, they do a good job!

To get things started, turn on the camera to extend the lens and then open the battery door and remove the battery so that the lens stays out. This allows you to easily work on the lens barrier assembly.

First the part we need is the ‘barrel drive ring’, it’s the ring with the small piece that sticks down into the lens. Some cameras don’t have one, so if there isn’t one in your kit then your camera doesn’t need it. Make sure it rotates slightly once it has been inserted, otherwise it’s not in properly and can jam the lens.

Next we will install the barrier plates or ‘flaps’ with the springs attached. There is a small little tab that holds the spring in place when you put it on the ‘flap’ or ‘barrier plate’ as they are actually called. They are TINY, they are hard to hold and if you drop it… lets just say DON’T drop it on the carpet, ok? We do have just the springs available for purchase, but please try not to lose them.

Gently put the flap in the hole with the spring laying towards the post that the free end will mount on; then with something with a very small tip (we use dental picks!) gently grab the loop of the spring and stick it on its post.

If you do this with the lens covers or ‘flaps’ in the open position they will stay in place once you get them properly seated. If everything pops off, just start again. Try not to stretch out the springs, they need to remain tight for the assembly to work properly.

Then gently put on the barrier cover, it’s a flat plastic ring. The tabs on the outer barrier cover match up with small slots in the lens housing and it will lock into place. Be gentle, don’t force anything too hard or you will break it and the parts will not hold it place.

Now you may test your repair prowess! Put in the battery (cross your fingers) and press the power button! Did it work? Did it go *SPROING!* and maybe all the parts scattered all over the place? I hope not, but you’re not alone I’ve been there too.

Once it’s working nicely …you’re almost done with your first camera repair!

Next put the dual sided tape on the barrier cover. CAUTION: Make sure to take the tape off of the backing paper but DON’T remove the paper that matches the shape of the tape on the other side!! If you take off the small paper part it will ruin the tape because it will fold and stick to itself. Bye bye tape!

The tabs fold over the edge, don’t let them stick out or the lens cover won’t fit and the lens will jam. Line up the tape tabs, starting at the 11 o’clock position and then fold down the tabs and press them in.

Now put on your chrome or black lens cap, line up the cap with the small indentation at the bottom, you’ll see how it goes on easily.

Fire up the camera again and admire your handywork! Congratulations you now know more about Canon camera repair than the Geek Squad, and they told you it would be two hundred dollars and take 3-4 weeks to repair. Whatever Geek Squad… Whatever.

Hmm… I think I’m seeing the beginning of something big here; affordable do it yourself Canon camera repair!

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How to Care For Your Digital Camera

Wednesday, February 10th, 2010

The continuing development of digital camera technology offers near limitless choices for the professional and amateur alike when looking to achieve the best photographs possible. The variety of cameras available is huge, ranging from tiny compact point and shoot cameras to very large professional digital SLRs. Each type of camera available has pros and cons associated with it, so shopping for the right camera can be confusing. Camera preference will come down to the features and specifications that the individual desires, there is no one camera that will please everyone.

With any digital camera, there will be an assortment of features and utility levels which will make a good camera well above a thousand dollars. The current top digital camera brands are Canon, Sony and Nikon.

The two most important and expensive parts of the camera are the lens and the LCD screen. These parts should be regularly cleaned and maintained. These sensitive components such as a camera LCD screen should never be bumped or have a battery put against it inside the camera case; you don’t want to have to pay for a camera LCD screen repair It is also important to invest in good quality lens cleaning equipment such as a good lens brush, a lens blower and lens cloth. A blower will help remove the dirt while a lens cleaning solution removes sticky particles on the lens. Another important reminder is to protect the cameras lens by always putting on the lens cover when the camera is not in use.

Be sure to store your digital camera properly when not in use. It is recommended that the camera be stored in a cool and dry space. Always keep the camera out of the sun and from cold temperature. Digital camera batteries should also be taken out when the camera is not in use. Also keep in mind that magnets of any kind should also be kept away from the camera.

Besides just the camera itself, you should also remember to take care of your accessories such as memory cards. As these accessories are small, they should always be handled with utmost care. It should not be taken out while in the process of transferring images from the camera. Memory cards should be stored in the camera or in a card case to avoid damage to them and avoid losing them.

Taking care of your most prized digital camera is imperative to make certain that they will last for a very long time. You should look for overall brand reliability before making your purchase, and Canon has a great rating; but this does not mean that the camera won’t suffer from normal wear and tear just from normal use. As much as possible, to avoid having to find a Canon digital camera repair shop you need to protect it from impact damage, water exposure, sand and dust and extreme tempertures.

If you notice any damage or malfunction to any part then it is important to find someone who can affordably provide you with reliabledigital camera repair services. Keep in mind that a good digital camera is not cheap, and it pays off in the long run to take good care of it.

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