This and That!

2008-09-07T22:11:00.014-07:00

WHITE BALANCE AND YOUR DIGITAL CAMERA

OK, I know, just when you felt a little more comfortable with shooting that camera up pops another mystery. Let me set your mind at ease; the camera already has a factory setting which is usually pretty good. However, there are times when you will need to adjust for that less than perfect lighting and white balance will be that adjustment.

If you want to depend on the factory setting that’s OK but, it’s a bit risky---You know, like playing poker or the slot machines. There are several ways to adjust your white balance (thanks a lot huh?). Don’t be afraid to try some of the following examples; remember you can always default back to the camera’s factory settings.

Buy a piece of WHITE poster board and cut it to fit your camera bag.
Take a picture of a solid white shirt or sock.
Use a white photo disc.
Purchase a small warm card ; it has a very good rating.
There’s another great new product called Expoimaging.

I’m sure you noticed that some of the ideas shown above are quick fixes for the moments you're caught without a gray target or rag. This item should always be a part of every camera bags accessories. You would be surprised how hard it is to find an obliging clean white shirt to shoot. Next to Expoimaging, the gray target or rag is my second choice. Both are easy to carry and readily accessible. Each of these items will come with easy to follow instructions. Dare to learn “white balance adjustment” and your pictures will delight you.

The key too why we adjust our white balance is consistently perfect exposures. We have all missed that once-in-a-lifetime shot due to over or under exposures. What looks great on the view screen is many times deceiving. Have you ever wondered why as you viewed you monitor and begin using all those expletives? Simple, the pixels have to compress to fit that little 2x2 screen. Sure they are going to look great!

TIP: Always take several shots of your picture and bracket. Especially if it’s one that you really want as close to perfect as possible.

Take a moment to visit my favorite place to shop for photo bugs like us…They are great to do business with and you can download a catalog or order one to be sent right on line.

That’s it for now and until next time---Happy Shooting!

"One should really use the camera as though tomorrow you'd be stricken blind." Dorothea Lange--American photographer 1895-1965

2008-07-17T16:39:00.006-07:00

YOUR DIGITAL SLR CAMERA

EXPOSURE VALUE

There will be times when your aperture, ISO and shutter speed need a tiny bit of tweaking. That’s where your exposure compensation will come into play. Uh-oh, another new term…Don’t let that frighten you. Exposure compensation or values (EV) is a smart feature which allows you tweaking room when working in bright sun or shaded areas.

Remember, when you set the aperture, the camera selects an appropriate shutter speed. If you choose to set the shutter speed, the camera selects a suitable aperture. This is where exposure compensation comes into play. It provides you the flexibility to correct for more or less light without resetting your f-stops or shutter settings.

If the day is sunny, which it usually is in Arizona, I set my EV two clicks to the right and work from there. If it’s a heavy shadow area, I set it at two clicks to the left. We call this trial and error from which we all learn…Digital cameras can be off (light/dark) in normal exposure methods because they expose and average for 18% gray.

Check your camera manual to see if exposure compensation or EV is a listed feature. If so, read the instructions to fully understand how it functions. Next step; go out and take several practice shots. The more you practice using this feature, the easier it becomes. After awhile, it's just another “second nature” reaction. This feature is only an aid so please, don’t become dependent on it. Learn how to take great pictures using manual, shutter or aperture settings.

Tip: On a bright sunny day, use the Sunny 16 Rule to determine shutter and aperture settings. Set aperture to f/16, and shutter speed (reciprocal seconds) to ISO speed. Example, f-stop to 16, ISO 100 and shutter at 1/125.

Another excellent feature is the histogram which measures the level of brightness for the tones in your image. Once again, check your camera manual for this feature and learn how use it. The histogram will help you to adjust settings for optimum exposure.

Until next time—Happy Shooting!

"The camera doesn't make a bit of difference. All of them can record what you are seeing. But, you have to SEE.” ~Ernst Haas, Comment in workshop, 1985

2008-06-09T16:52:00.028-07:00

THE DIGITAL SLR CAMERA

Your Three Key Elements
For A Perfect Exposure

Your digital camera has preset exposures for taking pictures so all you have to do is point and click right? Well, not always…There will be times when you’ll need to make certain adjustments for better photographic results. In my last blog I wrote about two of these key elements; shutter speed and aperture. The third is your ISO, which is the digital sensor’s sensitivity to light.

Now I will put it all together and show you how they work in sync:

The shutter speed controls the amount of time you allow the light to strike the sensor. Let’s say you have a shutter speed setting of 1/500 of a second and the picture you took was too dark. “Open up” one stop, and change the shutter speed to 1/250 of a second. This allows the shutter to stay open twice the length of time as the 1/500 of a second. To decrease light “stop down” one stop to 1/500 of a second which allows half the amount of time and light?

Smaller numbers give you 100% more light and larger numbers give you 50% less light. Use shutter speed when you want to control or stop motion.

The aperture (f/ stops) control the amount of light that strikes the sensor. To increase your light “open up” one stop (f /5.6 to f/ 4.0). To decrease the amount of light “stop down” one stop (f/ 4.0 to f/ 5.6).

Again, smaller numbers give you a wider aperture and more light while larger numbers do the opposite. Use the aperture when you want to control the depth of field.

Caution here—this is a last resort! The higher ISO’s produce a grainy affect in the picture. In a low-light condition you would choose a “higher” ISO. In a bright-light condition you would choose a “lower” ISO. Settings of 100 to 200 will produce better quality pictures.

The higher the ISO number, the more sensitive it is to light which means it captures more in less time.

If you need to adjust the amount of light entering your camera, you can use any one of the three tools above. A correct exposure relies on the right combination of shutter, aperture and ISO settings. Remember, each gives you a different creative result.

Until the next time—Happy Shooting!

The camera doesn't make a bit of difference. All of them can record what you are seeing. But, you have to SEE.” ~Ernst Haas, Comment in workshop, 1985

2008-05-03T02:32:00.023-07:00

DIGITAL SLR CAMERAS

Here we go on another adventure in digital photography. We will venture into that freighting world of shutter speeds, and apertures. These are probably the hardest concepts of “how to” in the field of photography. Master these concepts and half of your battle for great pictures is behind you.
The shutter does two things; first, it controls the amount of time the light hits your sensor. The typical camera will have speeds in seconds such as 1, ½, ¼, 1/60, 1/250, etc. Your camera however, will show them as readings of 1, 2, 4, and 60. As you move up the scale, say from 30 to 60, you cut your exposure time in half. So, if you shorten the time the shutter is open, you shorten the light exposure.
Secondly, shutter speed controls motion. 1/15 of a second can make a moving subject look almost transparent while 1/100 of a second (and higher) begins to “freeze” or stop motion. Think about those water pictures you have seen. At 1/15 of a second, the water looked smooth and motionless but, at 1/100 of a second you could see the droplets begin to freeze in mid-air. Choosing the right shutter speed will give you the artistic effect you're after.
Tip: The shorter the exposure, the sharper the image.
The aperture also provides you with two functions. One is the control of light, and the other is depth of field. The aperture is measured in F-Stops. These are found on your lens and the speed of you lens (widest opening) will read as the smallest number- ex, f2.8. The smaller your aperture number, the more light you let in and the less depth of field you reach. The larger aperture numbers will reduce the amount of light while increasing your depth of field.
Tip: The shorter the focal length (18-50mm), the greater the depth of field.
These two mechanisms, work together in the creative art of photography. To produce a great picture you will need to learn how the two work in sync. Use the Amazon search box to the right for excellent digital photography books.

Until next time—Happy Shooting!

“The camera doesn't make a bit of difference. All of them can record what you are seeing. But, you have to SEE.” ~Ernst Haas, Comment in workshop, 1985

2008-03-26T18:21:00.009-07:00

Here’s a little trivia--When was the concept of photography set in motion? It was in the 1830’s, and it proved to be an expensive project. Cameras were huge, heavy, and difficult to carry. Images were processed onto “glass negatives,” and pictures were printed on paper or cardboard.

In 1900, George Eastman (sound familiar) of Kodak Company invented the film camera and the rest is history…It just keeps getting better for all of us photography buffs…Thank you Mr. Eastman!

In the 1990’s, the SLR was born for the more serious minded photographer. It used mirrors (or a prism) and 35mm film. The price tag was extremely expensive and the camera itself was quite heavy. How fortunate we are to have our digital SLR’s. They are very light weight in comparison to their predecessors. The digital SLR is expensive but, you save in the long run on film processing fees.

The basic differences between 35mm film and digital are small---35mm, requires film and processing in a lab. The other uses a media card, which stores your pictures until you down load them to your computer. I suggest that once you download, you immediately burn the pictures to a CD or DVD as a backup. Always make a copy of the original to alter or enhance…

Now, let's talk digital camera's...

A “Point-and-Shoot,” is the camera of choice for people who desire a less complex picture taking experience. It has automatic settings (with a few restrictions) and takes good quality pictures. The resolution (megapixels) varies, and the 3X to 12X zoom lens is not interchangeable. However, some of these cameras do provide a decent focal length of 24mm to 360mm. Their price range is $100.00 to $1,000.00.

Digital SLR’s, provide more creative control for the serious photographer. They provide the flexibility of shooting with preset programs like automatic, portrait, macro, landscape, or manual which provides you that creative edge. The lenses are interchangeable making a variety of focal lengths available. The camera and lenses are light weight and easy to manage. Their price range is $100.00 to $7,000.00 and higher.

The “Absolute Must Do’s” of owning a camera:

Purchase a camera that’s RIGHT for your style of photography!
Extremely important--Read your camera booklet thoroughly until you know how to use everything correctly. Knowledge of operation will enhance your picture taking experience.
Always change your lens away from dust and moisture; keep your camera dry.
Use only proper cleaning materials on your camera and lens. NEVER clean the inside mirror! If that becomes necessary, take it to a professional camera repair shop.
Before a shoot, make sure your lens is clean-You don’t want spots or dust to ruin a great picture.
Buy a good camera bag to carry and store your equipment in. I have a back pack especially designed for cameras. Its easy to carry and everything is at my fingertips.
Always carry a Polarizer filter and keep a UV filter on each lens that you attach to your SLR.
Invest in a good tripod—you will find a need for one more often than you think.

Until next time, happy shooting!!!

"There are no rules for good photographs, there are only good photographs."~Ansel Adams

2008-02-27T00:39:00.010-07:00

Last year for mother’s day my children presented me with a Nikon D40X. I was thrilled! However, after I experienced a few takes, the thrill quickly transformed into frustration. Why? Because I approached digital photography with the idea it would be as easy as film photography. What a misconception that was!

Over the next few postings I will attempt to explain some of the differences between 35mm (film) and digital SLR’s. I will use various resources including my own “trail by error” method. If you’re a pro or just learning, please read along with us. I may surprise you with a few new tricks of the trade. If you would like to share some information with me, please leave a comment.

I will start with the basics and progress from there-. OK, here we go!

Always follow the principal of “knowing” your camera! Read everything in your camera’s instruction booklet. Knowledge of how to use your camera (and its many features) will enhance your digital experience.

Digital offers other great benefits too. You can view your pictures immediately, and save tons of money on development fees. Your film has now been replaced by a memory card.

If you choose to invest in an SLR, you will have the creative control many photographers’ desire. Either type of camera (SLR or Point and Shoot) is a personal preference; I carry both. Last but not least, here are three guidelines to follow when taking pictures:

1. Clearly define your subject or theme—it should always appear clear and unmistakable…

2. Focus attention--the eye should immediately be drawn to your subject.

3. Simplify—include only the necessary elements that draw the eye to your subject.

Learn to see in pictures. This is the most important lesson a photographer learns. It’s called composition and without it, the art of photography is lost.

“Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever…it remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.” ~~Aaron Siskind—American Photographer 1903-1991

2008-01-16T17:28:00.000-07:00

There are many people who think they need thousands of dollars to give to a charity. Not true! Whatever you can give is a great help and will be appreciated. Here are a few ways, without the use of money, that you can make a charitable donation. Individuals also need the plain essentials of life. You can volunteer your time; donate items such as clothes, household goods, canned goods, etc. Every so often even a life saving blood donation is needed. Occasionally, these “other” forms of donation are desired more than a cash donation.

You can find many charities in your community that would appreciate ten or fifteen dollars- if that is all you have to give. When you see a red kettle around Christmas, drop in the change in your pocket. Yes, it will make a difference and that little bit is what helps to keep many charities going. The smallest amounts can add up quickly. Your “pocket change” donation will do more than you think, as long as you are giving it to a legitimate charity.

Let’s consider a few guidelines on the “other” donations concept. You can help clean up your community, spend time with underprivileged children, or work in a soup kitchen. I mentioned above that you can donate older items in your home. You can give old clothing, household items, books, and toys as long as they are in respectable condition. If something is broken or stained, it is not a good charity gift. If you won’t use it for those reasons, chances are no one else will want to either.

When you think about making a donation, check before giving your money. There are many great charities but, there are a few who mismanage money, and even some scams that just want to take your money. Do some researches online before you donate to any charity. That way, you can be sure your money is put to good use. Remember, even though you don’t think you have a lot to give, you really do. Just an hour of your time can make a difference in the life of someone else.

One last thing, when you help others, you’re also helping yourself! Many of these foundations provide you with a tax deduction at the end of the year.

I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.
~~ Maya Angelou

2007-10-08T21:17:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what in the heck an affiliate is? I have and then I tried to be one… There is much more to the venture then you realize. Let me explain, here is the definition of affiliate;

af·fil·i·ate --1. Transitive and intransitive verb combine organizations: to come, or bring a person or group, into a close relationship with another, usually larger group.

Sounds simple right? Wrong, the definition is simple but the function in the internet marketing world is not! In that world, you pair up with a company, person or both and market their product and/or service. If successful, you’re paid a commission. Some are “flourishing” and many are not! It takes work, like any job, but the main reason people are moving in this direction is because they can work from home.

Now you are probably saying to yourself, "gee that doesn’t sound too difficult." Well, if you do your research on the best companies to partner with, find reliable products to offer, and choose the ones where you make excellent commissions then you’re on the right path. Here are two respectable companies that I have found…ClickBank, CJ.

Is it expensive? It can be! Some ads offer a free web site and are worth a try http://achoicemade.com/. Just make sure they offer a good money back guarantee. I look for the ones that give 30 to 60 days with no questions ask. Anything less can be tricky and not worth your time.

Once the web site is up you’re usually offered a dollar amount to provide you with a start on pay-per-click (PPC) advertisement through MSN, Yahoo and others. This of course depends on the person whose providing the free web site and whom they have partnered with for this service. It’s a “learn as you go” experience.

You can also partner without the expense of a web site or landing page. This is an example of one product that ClickBank offers Auto Pilot Profits with no web site required. Sign up for the free newsletters offered by many of these services. You will learn a lot about the world of “affiliate selling.”

My recommendation is research, research and more research! Start viewing some of the links to the right of this article. You won’t be a millionaire over night! Nothing is guaranteed in life except death and taxes!

“You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great."~~Zig Ziglar