Precision Camera and Video Blog

Tips for Howling Halloween Shots

2009-10-05T12:28:00.003-05:00

Just combine the promise of free candy with a group of small children and you have a recipe for a challenging photo opportunity. With a bit of planning, however, you can bet on snapping some super shots of your favorite little goblins this October 31st!

Start Early: Get a jump start on your evening by planning a few extra minutes for your photography before the festivities begin. Let the little ones know in advance that cooperation now means they’ll get to the candy faster! This technique will often buy you a few extra wiggle-free moments to start shooting.

Try Twilight: The hour or so before the sun sets is the perfect time for photography. The lighting conditions will be favorable and may provide a nice, warm cast to your images.

Through the Looking Glass: If you have a glass pane on your front door, try having the kids look through while you shoot from the other side. Just remember to turn your flash off so light doesn’t bounce off the glass.
Now Let Them Run: Try taking a few pictures of your kids running down the sidewalk with their treat bags in tow. Make sure your ISO is set to a higher setting to catch the movement and pick your perfect spot to shoot before you let them run free.

Nighttime Shots: The right flash distance can make all the difference when it comes to creating that perfect image. Most cameras have a flash that is effective somewhere between five and ten feet from the subject; just don’t stand too close or else you may find your picture looks too bright or overexposed.

Sign Up for the Live Leica Webcast on 9.09.09!

2009-09-03T12:26:00.003-05:00

Leica's latest cameras will be announced via a live webcast, and we want to make sure you don't miss it! We will also have a Leica event announcement coming soon and the event will be one designed to let you get your hands on these latest models. To learn more, contact robertj@precision-camera.com Stay tuned!

To register for the Leica Webcast: http://us.leica-camera.com/news/news/1/6742.html

Professional Photographers Needed for Family Portraits of Military Families

2009-09-03T11:27:00.001-05:00

Precision Camera & Video is proud to support the PMDA(PhotoImaging Manufacturers and Distributors Association) Portraits of Love Project, which is committed to sending 10,000 free portraits to deployed soldiers around the globe this holiday season. We are looking to partner with portrait photographers in the area to support this important cause and to show our gratitude to our Nation’s troops.
“This project is the photo industry’s way of giving back to our soldiers, and thanking them for the sacrifices they have made for our country,” said Jerry Grossman, the president of the PMDA who has spearheaded the effort. “Our industry is uniquely qualified to bring an important piece of home to our soldiers, and we’re pleased to be able to organize this effort.”

“It’s incredible how motivating a simple family photograph can be to a soldier who is far from home,” said Sergeant First Class Toby Nunn, who has served two tours in Iraq and has worked with Soldiers Angels on a number of projects. “This volunteer effort is one more way that we can help our soldiers cope with their situation,” he said.

If you’re a professional photographer interested in working with Precision Camera & Video on this project, please visit http://www.pmdaportraitsoflove.com and get started. Portrait photography will take place during the month of September 2009. Please call us, email or stop by if you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to show our gratitude to our troops.

Come to the 1st Annual Texas Photo Festival!

2009-09-03T11:20:00.004-05:00

Shutterbugs of all skill levels need to mark their calendars for September 11-13 to attend the Texas Photo Festival in Smithville, Texas. It’s the perfect opportunity to hone your craft in a small town setting as you’ll be spending time in downtown Smithville. Models will be available for you to photograph and a wide range of topics such as lighting, composition and technique will be covered during this fun weekend event. You’ll even get to ride a train around town, visit a train museum, stop by antique shots and so much more.

This festival was founded by longtime favorite local professional photographers Randy Kerr and Doug Box and promises to be an event you’ll talk about long after the weekend is over.

Learn more here:http://texasphotofestival.com

Make Back to School a Bit Better...

2009-09-03T11:10:00.003-05:00

If your little one is feeling a bit nervous about returning back to school, consider sending along a little comfort. Print some of your favorite summer photos and tuck one into her lunch kit each week with a note about what you loved about that particular moment. It's a wonderful way to stay connected and remind her of the fun you shared this summer.

It only takes a few minutes to be ready for an entire fall of photo fun. Come by our store or order some pictures online so you'll be ready for your weekly photo lunch date! http://www.precision-camera.lifepics.com/net/Default.aspx

Why You Should Choose Austin First

2009-06-29T10:23:00.001-05:00

Choosing to spend your money with a local Austin business rather than with a big box store can have a substantial impact on our local economy. For example, if you spent $100 with a big box store, about $17 of that money would go into our local economy. However, if you spend that same $100 with a local Austin business, that number would increase to $40-$60! Your buying decisions have a great deal of impact and power, and more than ever, Austinites are finding that they need to stick together to strengthen our economy.

While Precision Camera has long been an advocate of Choose Austin First, the company has decided to increase its involvement. Our manager, Gregg Burger, has been elected President of the organization this year and is committed to helping Choose Austin First grow to the benefit of the community and local businesses.

Burger says, “The people of Austin are very dedicated to the city and the community. Our goal is to make sure they know which businesses are local and how they can use their buying power for the betterment of the city and everyone who lives here. Where you shop matters more than you might think.”

Learn more about Choose Austin First: http://www.chooseaustinfirst.org/

Tips for Photographing Fireworks

2009-06-29T10:19:00.002-05:00

It’s time to get ready for Fourth of July celebrations and the amazing fireworks show that accompany the barbeques and other events. Want to get some amazing images? You can capture some spectacular scenes if you take a few tips with you before you begin shooting.

Scout Your Spot: If at all possible, get the event early and take a look around. See if you can get an unobstructed view or if you can position yourself where other onlookers’ heads won’t be in the way.

Try a Tripod: With the combination of low light and fast action (the fireworks), a steady surface can greatly aid in helping you record that perfect image. We offer a number of high quality styles including compact, professional and monopod styles:http://www.precision-camera.com/search.php?terms=tripod

Add a Remote Release: A remote release can free you up to focus on your images and keep your eye on the sky. They are inexpensive and many photographers find them to be an invaluable accessory: http://www.precision-camera.com/search.php?terms=remote+trigger

Slow Your Shutter Speed: A long exposure often works best with fireworks since they are moving events and contain bright light. Experiment with keeping the shutter open long but don’t overdo it because you can overexpose the image. Alternate between using a burst mode to capture the action as well as holding the shutter open (by pressing the button half-way at the beginning of the action and continue holding it down until the fireworks burst is complete) in a single shot. Each location and event has unique circumstances so keep experimenting as you go along until you find the effect that works for you.

Forget the Flash: Your flash can be more of a hindrance in this case because it may signal to your camera that you need a shorter exposure time. The flash only helps when your object is a few feet away, so in this case, even though it’s dark, keep the flash turned off.

Happy Fourth of July!

Free Admission & Classes at Austin Photo Expo This Weekend!

2009-06-05T08:28:00.003-05:00

Precision Camera & Video is Offering Great Specials at the Expo!

The Austin Photo Expo is Austin's largest gathering of photographic manufacturers in one place for two days only.

Check out the expo demo floor for all the new cameras, lenses, and accessories. Representatives will be on hand to explain how their products work best for you.

Precision Camera & Video is proud to be a sponsor of this year's Austin Photo Expo. We'll have our very own booth at the show and will be offering all kinds of specials on products and accessories during the event.

Our team is excited about being a part of this event, and we look forward to seeing you at the Expo. This jam-packed event has numerous events designed for all skill levels--from the beginning shutterbug to the full-time professional photographer.

To learn more, visit http://www.austinphotoexpo.com/.

We'll see you this weekend!

Make Mom's Day!

2009-05-04T10:28:00.002-05:00

There are few things more challenging and rewarding than being a mother. She juggles countless demands and roles and always manages to keep things together. This month, skip the usual Mother’s Day gifts and consider giving her something that shows you really put some thought into finding the perfect gift.

Digital Photo Frame: How often do our favorite photos get downloaded to our computers only to languish for months on end without being seen again? Consider organizing some of Mom’s favorite photos and putting them together on a digital photo frame. A digital photo frame is a unique way to share and enjoy digital pictures and to help her relive some of her favorite memories. And it’s much more fun than looking at pictures on a computer screen! Learn more here: http://www.precision-camera.com/product/4014469

Color Her World: Some of today’s compact point-and-shoot camera models come in a variety of sleek and stylish colors. These cameras are packed with the latest features and are sure to delight her on her special day without breaking your budget. http://www.precision-camera.com/product/3451B001

Go Big! How many times have you heard her talk about getting a few favorite photos enlarged and framed but she just can’t seem to find the time to get the job done? Mother’s Day is the perfect time to enlarge and frame her favorite pictures. You can also take an even more artistic route by having an image printed on canvas. Ask us how we can turn a favorite photo into a work of art. http://www.precision-camera.com/services/photolab/

We can create a number of fantastic and personalized gifts, and our options are time and budget-friendly. Give us a call or stop by; we’d love to help you make Mom’s day the best ever.

May is National Photo Month!

2009-05-04T10:19:00.002-05:00

National Photo Month began as a week-long event back in 1984 and was recognized by Congress as a celebratory month in 1987. If you love photography, this is the month to indulge in your hobby and learn a new technique or two. It’s also the perfect time to help foster a love of photography with your children or other loved ones.

A Photo a Day…Try taking a photo each day of a (wonderfully) ordinary moment throughout the month of May. It could be as simple as your morning breakfast gathering (as chaotic and busy as it is) or a photo of Dad and the kids playing a pick-up basketball game after school. Just keep your point-and-shoot in your pocket or use your camera phone if your camera’s out of reach. At the end of the month, print all the pictures on a poster board and number the days. It’s quite fascinating to see your daily life depicted this way, and kids of all ages get a kick out of seeing themselves in print.

Encourage Your Youth: Many children discover a love of photography through a parent, relative or mentor. Consider taking your child or a child in your life on a photo safari. It can be in your own backyard or at a local park. The purpose is to let the child experience seeing the world through the camera lens and foster creativity. What sparks his interest? Watching a child compose images and then explain why he made those choices is an activity that inspires all involved.

Enter a Photo Contest: Yes, you! You’ll find lots of photo contests being held during National Photo Month, so consider entering one (or several!). Don’t sell yourself short, either. Go through your photo library and find your favorites or shoot some new pictures for the contest of your choice. You may surprise yourself with the results, so send in a picture and see what happens.

Grand Vision and Strong Community Ties Part of the Austin Center for Photography Plan

2009-03-30T10:08:00.004-05:00

David Keenan, Founder and President of the Austin Center for Photography, has always had a knack for bringing talented groups of people together. Growing up, his networking skills and strategic thinking flourished on the basketball court. “I always loved to get teams together, and they could be three-on-three teams or city league teams-- it didn’t matter. Our win/loss record was pretty good because it was all about finding the right group of talent and bringing them together.”

Keenan, who has built a successful career in the software industry, is now turning his attention to his passion for photography. Keenan has long carried a vision for creating a grand, top-tier photographic center in Austin that features national as well as local talent—one that provides a welcoming community for those with a love of photography. Keenan turned to the Houston Center for Photography to expand his knowledge into how successful photography-centered non-profit entities operate. “Madeline Yale (Executive Director and Curator of HCP) and many other members were extremely helpful in sharing information about how they’d made HCP successful.”

The Board members of ACP envision a uniquely-Austin center designed to celebrate the breadth of talent across the country as well as in our own backyard. Keenan states that the ACP board is filled with “a great group of people, each with unique talents, and each is committed to the success of this vision. Jerry Sullivan, for example, is a member of the board. There are no egos involved. They just want to see ACP grow and connect with the community.”

Keenan also states that Austin is home to many highly-regarded and talented photographers and bringing them together as a resource to celebrate the craft and connect with the community is a driving force in expanding ACP. “There are so many celebrated photographers in Austin and most people don’t even realize they live here. For example, Marianne Fulton, an ex-curator of the George Eastman house and the author of Mary Ellen Mark: 25 Years, calls Austin home. She is just one example of the rich resources we have here in our city.”

The ACP’s first Icons in Photography event, An Evening with Mary Ellen Mark, was a huge sold-out success. Ms. Mark was then interviewed by Texas Monthly Talks’ Evan Smith (this interview will air in early May). There are three more events planned this year, the next one being An Evening with Alec Soth on June 4, 2009. Future plans for ACP within the next three years include expansion into offering a national competition with possible grants and awards, two galleries that feature national and local artists, a variety of workshops and an integrated coffee shop with walls to be graced with quality photographic art. There is also some discussion about a possible youth outreach initiative to encourage young photographers to pursue their passion for the craft.

The Austin Center for Photography is still in its infancy but many see its potential as nothing less than stunning. The ACP welcomes volunteers to assist with its Icons in Photography Events and also offers memberships that start at as little as just $30 per year. For more information, visit http://www.visitacp.org/

On the Hunt for Eggs-ellent Easter Photos

2009-03-30T10:01:00.005-05:00

Easter Sunday comes early this year, so now’s the time to get ready to record exuberant little egg-hunters as they search nearby land for treasures nestled in the grass and hidden from view. Here are a few ideas to help ensure you’re ready to hop on that perfect shot:

·Visualize in Advance: Are there certain traditions held each year that you’d like to capture? Plan a few shots and consider which locations would give you the best results. For example, before the kids run in an Easter egg hunt, where should you stand to make sure you capture their faces in the photographs?

· Check Your Gear: Is your digital camera’s battery fully charged? Have you downloaded pictures from previous events onto your computer and re-formatted your camera card so it’s ready to go? Do you remember how to use the timer function? It only takes a few minutes to make sure your camera gear is ready, and it’s worth the time if it saves you from having your camera battery shut down in the middle of all the fun.

· Prepare Your Props and Place: If you want to shoot posed images, consider setting up one mini shooting area and include props such as an Easter basket, stuffed animal rabbits or other items you feel would properly adorn your photos in a kid-friendly way. Check how the image is framed in advance to determine if your props are properly spaced and leave enough room for your subjects.

· Capture Color: Easter is filled with colorful eggs, dresses and decorations. Consider taking a few close-up shots that center on a single colorful object or arrangement. Try to keep the image composition simple so the color is stunning.

· Get Low: Crouch down low during the egg hunt to give your photos a unique and personal perspective. Let the child’s reach be at the forefront of the image and shoot upward; the result is candid and yet very personal.

Get Ready for Canon Discovery Days on April 3 and 4!

2009-03-30T09:58:00.002-05:00

If you own a Canon camera or are interested in learning more about them, stop by Precision Camera & Video on April 3 and 4 for our special Canon Discovery Days! We’ll have expert Canon representatives on hand to demonstrate new models, answer questions about existing ones and discuss all the latest tips and tricks. We’re even offering special classes designed to give you some easy methods to take your camera out of auto mode. The class format is simple and straight-forward. You can learn more here: http://www.precision-camera.com/product/CLASS14

Grab your camera and hang out with us for a bit. You’ll be glad you did!

Come By For 9 Cent 4x6 Prints on March 9th!

2009-03-08T21:27:00.003-05:00

Get all your 4x6 photos printed for just 9 cents each on Monday, March 9th!*

If you've got a computer filled with photos that need to be printed, now's the time to bring them in! Come by Precision Camera and get high-quality 4x6 prints for only nine cents each on March 9th! If you can't make it to the store, just log on to the Precision Camera & Video Website to take advantage of our special one day offer online.

Hey, we love our computers, too, but let's face it...there's no better way to showcase and relive your favorite memories than by printing them for all to see. So, rescue those pictures from your computer or digital media card and get them printed for a steal-of-a-deal price at Precision Camera.

*4x6 size from digital media only, no color correction included.

Supporting Your Kids' School Through Photography

2009-02-26T11:26:00.007-06:00

Like many parents, you invest time supporting your children’s school through volunteer work, fundraising, chaperoning field trips and other labors of love. Parental volunteers are a powerful and important part of helping educators give our kids the best possible experience in and out of the classroom. If you love taking pictures, you might consider using your hobby to contribute to your school’s efforts.

As the unofficial photographer for my kids’ classes, I enjoy the opportunity of shooting these events and sharing them with parents who were unable to attend due to work or schedule conflicts. Let’s face it—as involved as we are, we have many other work and personal roles and simply can’t be at every single event for every single child. Having someone take photographs of the class during a field trip can be a wonderful gift for those parents who were unable to attend. The images can also be used to help the school promote itself, its fundraising efforts or for other related purposes. In addition, the images can be used to create personalized teacher gifts at the end of the year.

Here are a few tips to turn your photography into both a gift for parents and a marketing tool for your school:

Personalize the Shot: Group shots are wonderful and necessary but make sure to take individual shots of each child if at all possible. Zoom in close to fill the frame with the child’s face and wait for that candid smile or impromptu interaction. These magical moments just require a bit of planning and patience. Ignore the bustle around you for a few seconds to see if you can portray the essence of what that child is experiencing.

Capture Interaction: Some of the best photos are those of children engaged in particular projects or working together. Even something as seemingly simple as sharing a lunch outdoors on a picnic table can translate into an extraordinary photograph. Look for kids who are enjoying a moment together and start snapping away. Just don't get too close--you want to capture the moment, not interrupt it.

Share & Upload: Once your event is over, make sure to upload your photos to your local photo store’s online website. It’s one of the easiest ways to share images and you can simply email a link to the album to all the parents and teachers involved. They can then order prints and other items from the photo store directly.

Get Permission: It is very important to get permission and to have a parent sign a standard model release anytime the child’s picture might be used for posters, flyers or other promotional item. There are standard model release forms that can be found online for your school to use. Some parents may prefer not to have their child included, and that’s okay. Your school’s office should already have these provisions in place, but if not, find the form and have copies made for each child in the class.

The next time you gear up for a field trip, make sure to take your camera (and accessories) and assign yourself the role of event photographer. It’s a chance to practice your hobby and an opportunity to give a gift to the kids and families all while supporting the school.

Precision Camera & Video Wins Prestigious Magazine Award

2009-02-05T21:56:00.002-06:00

We were thrilled to learn that Photo Trade News magazine awarded their highly-coveted ‘Photo Dealer of the Year’ award to Precision Camera and Video for 2008. The honor is bestowed annually to one retailer that stands out among his or her peers and offers an innovative approach to doing business.

"Jerry has built Precision Camera & Video on the premise of serving the photographic community by providing not only equipment, but expertise that is rooted in the promise of providing the best in customer service and quality workmanship," says editor Diane Berkenfeld. "He is a stand out as PTN's Dealer of the Year for 2008."

Jerry Sullivan’s journey building Precision Camera & Video has been classified as a “Great American Success Story” and the Sullivan team continues to thrive and grow by standing true to its principles and its desire to serve its community. Jerry will be presented with his award on March 4, 2009 at the PMA Trade Show and Convention during PTN's Dealer of the Year reception to be held in his honor.

Read how Jerry turned a childhood love of photography into a business that is recognized as an icon of Austin Business.

http://www.imaginginfo.com/print/PTN/PTN-2008-Dealer-of-the-Year/2$4563

Painting with Light

2009-02-05T21:54:00.002-06:00

The term ‘photography’ comes from the Greek φώς (phos) "light" + γραφίς (graphis) "stylus", "paintbrush" or γραφή (graphê), which translates into ‘painting with light.’ Having the right light is critical to the composition and quality of your photographs

Shooting eBay Photos that Sell

2009-02-05T21:51:00.001-06:00

Did you know that the quality of your pictures can influence whether or not an eBay auction receives any bids?

It can also affect the final selling price. The pictures you use for your auction are the only real representation of your product, and if there are others selling the same item, your photos can determine which auction receives the bid and which item remains unsold.

According to eBay, in 2008, 1.3 million people made their living selling goods on eBay. Even if this isn’t your full-time job, you may want to turn some unused items into cash. It’s a great way to clear out the clutter and reap returns from items that you no longer find useful.

Here are a few tips to make your eBay photography stand out from the competition:

Use Available Light: Take your pictures during daytime hours and position them close to a window to utilize available light. Avoid using a flash whenever possible as you may create ‘hot spots’ if the flash is too close to the subject. A search of any eBay category will bring a plethora of pictures that are too dark and even blurry. How can a prospective customer make a decision to spend his money based upon those photographs? A well-lit photograph can go a long way in closing a sale.

Cut the Clutter: Position your item in an area that is clutter free, such as on a table or flat surface. Look through the viewfinder of your camera and note all the distracting items such as the corner of a chair, stray papers on a table or random toys nearby.

Fill the Frame: Zoom in close to your subject and fill almost the entire frame with your item. Prospective bidders will thank you for giving them clear images, and close up shots also allow you to note any unique attributes or minor wear that should be noted in the listing.

Provide Multiple Views: Take photos of your item from several angles in order to give bidders more reasons to purchase your item; multiple views give the buyer comfort in that she has more information with which to make a decision.

It doesn’t take much time to shoot photos that sell, and with these tips, you’ll find more space in your closet and more money in your pocket.

Precision Camera & Video Named PTN's Dealer of the Year 2008

2009-01-28T10:56:00.000-06:00

Precision Camera & Video Named PTN's Dealer of the Year 2008

A Fresh Start for Shutterbugs

2009-01-13T09:16:00.002-06:00

With the holidays and festivities now behind us, our thoughts turn to the New Year and the idea of a fresh start. Maybe you’ve made your New Year’s Resolutions or maybe you’ve resolved not to commit to a list this year. Whatever the case may be, the year 2009 can become the year that you take your photography to a new artistic and engaging level. Here are a few ways to get the New Year off to a stellar start:

Tackle a new Technique: It can be as simple as taking photographs vertically or something more substantial such as learning how to use Photoshop®. Take that first step and write down the technique you’d like to learn. Maybe you’d like to learn portraiture lighting or how to properly use a filter; just choose one item and think of how much satisfaction you’ll feel mastering the new technique.

Sign up for a class or workshop: This is one of the most fun and practical ways to get more comfortable with your digital camera. We offer courses covering a variety of topics, and there is simply no substitute for hands-on instruction. Many new friendships have developed (no pun intended) during a photo workshop, so consider making new friends an added bonus. Let us help you find the right course for your needs and interest. We have courses for every schedule and skill level.

Gather With Like Minds: If you want to spend more time taking pictures, find a local group or organization with a photo focus. Almost every community has a photo club or some other association dedicated to fostering the love of photography. Check online and see what groups are available in your neighborhood; it’s a wonderful way to keep your passion for photography alive.

Share the Love: Is there a child in your life that might love photography? If so, consider inviting her on a photo safari or some other adventure for the purpose of taking pictures. It can be in your back yard or at a local park; the important thing is to help your three-foot friend discover the joy of photography. This exercise also benefits you as it is refreshing and interesting to note how differently children see things and how they view the world. This view is reflected in their photographs, even the blurry ones, and can greatly benefit your own photography.

Fantastic Family Holiday Photos

2008-12-17T13:45:00.001-06:00

When it comes to family photo opportunities, few events can top the holiday season. These special moments were meant to be cherished and to grace fireplace mantels and scrapbook pages for years to come.

Here are a few tips to help you capture the essence of your subjects and the authenticity of the moment.

Stake Your Claim: If you’ve ever watched a wedding photographer at work, you’ll realize there is often a very specific plan in place, and this includes knowing which photos will happen in which locations. Even if your entire family will remain in one place for the day, decide which setting(s) will be most appropriate for photography.

For example, you may decide to take photos in front of the family fireplace or near the Christmas tree. Are there items that need to be removed that would prove distracting in the background? Will you need to set up chairs, and if so, who will sit where? Feel free to grab a pen and jot down a few ideas. This forethought will greatly assist you in getting those fantastic photos because your subjects realize that you have a plan and will get the job done efficiently. Little ones will more likely cooperate as well because the process will flow quickly. You don’t need to be a drill sergeant, but being deliberate and having a vision will help tremendously.

Elevate Your Status: When it comes to shooting large groups, it helps to be creative. One inside trick used by professional photographers involves a chair. Grab one and stand on it! You’ll be able to accommodate larger groups and create a portrait that’s more visually interesting using this technique. The novelty of this approach may also keep your subjects captivated long enough to ensure everyone is smiling when the shutter snaps!

Take a Tripod… Here’s a chance to pick up a present for yourself! A tripod is one of the most valuable and affordable accessories you can have in your photo toolkit. A tripod will instantly improve your photographs by stabilizing your camera and eliminating ‘camera shake.’ In addition, having your camera attached to a tripod allows you to better focus on getting smiles from your subjects as your attentions won’t be so divided between balancing the camera and posing your subjects.

…And a Remote Trigger: Make the most of your tripod by adding a remote trigger, which will free your hands and allow you to interact with your subjects while shooting. Imagine how much easier it will be to recognize those perfect moments with a remote trigger in hand; your focus can remain on your subjects, and you’ll be in perfect position to record that one image when all eyes are open and on you!

Perfect Timing: Make sure you understand how to use the timer on your digital camera. Toss your camera’s manual in your bag and review it before setting up your photo shoot. If you can’t find your manual, don’t worry. Just do an online search for your camera model and add the words ‘delay timer’ to the search. You should be able to retrieve instructions to use immediately.

Take a couple of test shots to make sure you’re comfortable with the process. Delayed timers are actually quite simple to use in most cameras.

So much effort and love have gone into getting your family together during this very special holiday. By taking a few minutes to prepare, you’ll ensure that your photographs reflect that very sentiment and serve as a continued reminder long after you ring in the New Year.

Technique Tip: Bounce Your Flash to Soften Shadows

2008-11-12T10:35:00.001-06:00

When it comes to taking pictures of people indoors, bouncing your flash can help eliminate red-eye as well as soften shadows on your subject’s faces. All you need is an external flash for your DSLR to try this technique. Simply rotate the flash to point toward a nearby wall or ceiling—thereby ‘bouncing’ the flash off the surface—and then shoot the image. You’ll replace that harsh overexposed image with a warm effect and more natural-looking skin tones.

Taking Your Show on the Road this Thanksgiving

2008-11-12T10:29:00.002-06:00

November is considered the month of gratitude with the Thanksgiving holiday providing an opportunity for us all to pause and express thanks for the many joys in our lives. The Thanksgiving week is also considered one of the busiest travel times of the year, requiring many to venture across state lines or even cross country to celebrate with loved ones.

We’ve got a few tips so you won’t have to spend a moment worrying about whether your camera is ready when you are to capture those smiles.

Preparation Pays: Those Scouts know what they’re talking about when they advise us to ‘be prepared.’ This is certainly true when it comes to digital camera batteries. Make sure to pack an extra set of AA batteries or an extra rechargeable battery. It is a very small investment and can mean the difference between getting the shots you want and hoping a relative will send copies of her pictures to you after the event is over. Stop by our store or give us a call, and we’ll make sure you have the right battery for your needs.

Lens Cloths Save Time Later: Keep a lens cloth in your camera bag and spend a few seconds cleaning your camera lens before you start shooting. Finding a recurrent smudge on your favorite Thanksgiving photos can make you feel a little less joyous, and cleaning your lens before the picture event is far less time consuming than trying to correct the images later using a photo editing program later.

Bring the Right Bag: Not all camera bags are created equal, and cramming your camera and accessories into a backpack or briefcase isn’t always the best idea. For special family visits and vacations, it pays to pack your camera and accessories in a properly-padded camera bag. There are designs for every budget and style preference, and when it comes to getting ready for a trip, a camera bag is the one accessory that can keep all your gear properly organized and protected.

Getting Great Halloween Shots

2008-10-07T10:56:00.001-05:00

Photographing excited (and constantly moving) costume-clad children at night can pose a few challenges, but taking great Halloween pictures can be a snap if you use a few simple techniques.

Use that Jack-o’-lantern! Jack-o’-lanterns can serve as great props as well as a creative light source for super-spooky shots. You can pose your children close to the jack-o’-lantern—either with the pumpkin below their faces or in a silhouette pose, and the light coming from inside will cast a soft and scary light on their faces.

Go for the Action: Go beyond the traditional ‘say cheese’ shot and snap pictures of your trick-or-treaters on the go! Consider photographing them from behind as the run down the sidewalk, fully costumed with treat bags in tow, or walking up the steps to a neighbor’s house. Have them act the part of their costumes and keep snapping!

At Dusk-- To Flash or Not to Flash: Most trick-or-treaters try to hit the trail before dark, and using natural light as the sun goes down can yield some wonderfully warm Halloween images. Turn off your flash and use natural light to capture the rich colors of the costumes and painted faces. If possible, snap some of your shots before dark ; your Halloween photos will contain a nice range of moods between the dusk and nighttime hours.

Nighttime Shots: The right flash can make all the difference when it comes to creating that perfect image. Most cameras have a flash that is effective somewhere between five and ten feet from the subject; just don’t stand too close or else you may find your picture looks too bright or overexposed.

If you shoot using a DSLR, a high-quality add-on flash unit can greatly improve your images and allow you to capture fantastic nighttime pictures. PROMASTER has the most complete flash line in the industry with a product to suit everyone's needs and budget. http://tinyurl.com/55sewt

Come to our Photo Kiosk Café!

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We’ve got everything you need (including free coffee!) to create fun and fantastic holiday photo gifts. Whether you’re looking to pick up a quick set of prints or want to create a personalized scrapbook, our Photo Kiosk Café is the perfect place to relax and let your creativity run wild. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create an order a variety of products ranging from personalized journals to calendars certain to bring a smile to your face each and every month! And, of course, our experts are at the ready and available to help you at any moment.

Bring a friend or two and spend a little time hanging out in our café. Catch up on your conversations and complete some holiday gifts at the same time!