Have you ever seen photographs where the sun is shaped like a perfect star, with beautiful rays radiating away from a central point? This phenomenon is known as the sunburst or starburst effect and can be easily achieved by adjusting the aperture of the lens on your digital camera. All you need besides a camera is the ability to access this one manual function that is also known as f-stop. All digital SLR cameras have this ability, and many point and shoot digital cameras do as well. Look in your camera’s instruction manual to find out whether you can adjust the aperture of your lens and if you can, then read on to find out how to create this amazing effect with the sun!
Sunny day
Wait for a sunny day.
Set your digital camera’s shooting mode to either Aperture Priority Mode (often indicated with the letter A or Av) or Manual Mode (often indicated with the letter M).
Flower Sunburst
Adjust your lens aperture (also called f-stop) to the smallest opening (for example f/22 or f/36). A smaller hole allows the sun’s light to become like a sunburst or starburst. See the tips section for a more thorough explanation of how aperture is measured.
If you are shooting in Aperture Priority Mode, then your camera will choose an appropriate shutter speed to complement your chosen f-stop. If you are shooting in Manual Mode, then you will need to choose a shutter speed yourself.
Sunburst Effect
After you have adjusted your settings, you are ready to shoot the sun and achieve the sunburst effect.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
How to Use Filters With Digital Cameras
The use of glass or gelatin filters may not seem as necessary in digital photography as with film, but there are still benefits. Using filters can correct lighting problems that would take a long time in your computer editing program. You just need to know which filters work best with digital cameras. Read on to learn more.
Know what filter-mounting options you have on your camera. Some consumer-grade digital cameras lack mounting threads for accessories like filters. Others may require a lens tube.
Find out what size lens tube is best if you need one. Remember that longer tubes can cause a dark circle around the edge of photos (known as vignetting). The shortest tube you can find may be best, especially if you're using conversion lenses.
Determine the right size filter for your camera. A filter too small can cause vignetting. A filter too large will be more expensive and can cause flare, flash shadowing and viewfinder obstruction.
Get the best lens cap to protect the lens and filter. You may also need step-up rings if using shades and converter lenses.
Types of Filters
Avoid UV filters. Ultraviolet light doesn't affect digital images as much as regular film. The only real benefit may be blocking "purple fringing," when a band of bright purple surrounds the edges of dark objects against a bright background.
Use polarizing filters, especially if you shoot outdoors a lot. These are best for removing glare and other unwanted reflections as well as darkening the sky and highlighting clouds for effect.
Use Graduated Neutral Density filters if you are shooting against a very bright sky. These will help balance the sun's glare against your foreground, much like when you block the sunshine with your arm.
Know what filter-mounting options you have on your camera. Some consumer-grade digital cameras lack mounting threads for accessories like filters. Others may require a lens tube.
Find out what size lens tube is best if you need one. Remember that longer tubes can cause a dark circle around the edge of photos (known as vignetting). The shortest tube you can find may be best, especially if you're using conversion lenses.
Determine the right size filter for your camera. A filter too small can cause vignetting. A filter too large will be more expensive and can cause flare, flash shadowing and viewfinder obstruction.
Get the best lens cap to protect the lens and filter. You may also need step-up rings if using shades and converter lenses.
Types of Filters
Avoid UV filters. Ultraviolet light doesn't affect digital images as much as regular film. The only real benefit may be blocking "purple fringing," when a band of bright purple surrounds the edges of dark objects against a bright background.
Use polarizing filters, especially if you shoot outdoors a lot. These are best for removing glare and other unwanted reflections as well as darkening the sky and highlighting clouds for effect.
Use Graduated Neutral Density filters if you are shooting against a very bright sky. These will help balance the sun's glare against your foreground, much like when you block the sunshine with your arm.
Choosing Digital SLR Cameras
As digital SLR cameras become affordable for hobbyists, more and more users are moving away from point and shoot cameras and are choosing to invest in an excellent DSLR camera. Choosing digital SLR cameras can seem intimidating to the average photographer.
Decide what you will use a digital SLR camera for. Whether you use the camera for general purpose, travel, sports, macro, or portrait will have the most direct effect on the features or accessories to look for.
Decide what factors are important to you. These include the size of the camera, megapixel resolution, sensor size, special camera features and any additional gear that are needed.
Set your price budget. Digital SLR cameras can vary widely in price, from the affordable to the expensive, professional cameras. Be sure to also factor in the cost of any additional gear such as lenses, carrying cases, or other equipment and accessories that you may need to purchase.
Check online digital photography sites to view recommendations and reviews, and to start narrowing down cameras based upon your set criteria. Digital Photography School and PCPhoto Magazine are good resources.
Once you have decided on a list of possible cameras, research online prices for the cameras. Check the site’s return policy, as well as what extras may be included with your camera purchase. Take note of the prices for each camera on each site.
Head to your local Best Buy, Circuit City, or other electronics store. Compare the prices and packages of the cameras offered there. Reach your final purchase decision by weighing all of the options against your original features and budget criteria.
Decide what you will use a digital SLR camera for. Whether you use the camera for general purpose, travel, sports, macro, or portrait will have the most direct effect on the features or accessories to look for.
Decide what factors are important to you. These include the size of the camera, megapixel resolution, sensor size, special camera features and any additional gear that are needed.
Set your price budget. Digital SLR cameras can vary widely in price, from the affordable to the expensive, professional cameras. Be sure to also factor in the cost of any additional gear such as lenses, carrying cases, or other equipment and accessories that you may need to purchase.
Check online digital photography sites to view recommendations and reviews, and to start narrowing down cameras based upon your set criteria. Digital Photography School and PCPhoto Magazine are good resources.
Once you have decided on a list of possible cameras, research online prices for the cameras. Check the site’s return policy, as well as what extras may be included with your camera purchase. Take note of the prices for each camera on each site.
Head to your local Best Buy, Circuit City, or other electronics store. Compare the prices and packages of the cameras offered there. Reach your final purchase decision by weighing all of the options against your original features and budget criteria.
How to Get Started in Digital Photography
It's very useful to learn techniques of digital photography, both for your personal use and to possibly later develop to a hobby or professional level. In this article, I will show you the basics of what you will need to get started as well as provide you with links to more detailed information.
Before you purchase a digital camera, I highly recommend doing research and getting the most up-to-date information on choices available to you. What may be the right thing to tell you as of this article may not be the right thing 6 months down the road due to advancements in technology and the reduction in price that tends to happen over time. If at all possible, try out a camera before making a final purchase.
There are a wide range of accessories you can consider based on your budget. A tripod can allow you to get shots even in poorer light levels--where any small movement would normally blur the shot. Extra batteries and memory cards are extremely useful (it only takes one time of not having one when you need one to remind you of this). You can also upgrade your lenses to ones with higher quality or particular characteristics you would like (macro, wide-angle, etc.) An expodisc combined with your cameras memory for storing white balance is also very useful during wedding photography or any situation where the light will be changing often.
This is personal preference, but I think that Adobe makes the best software programs for digital photographers. Photoshop and Lightroom are extremely useful for everything from basic cropping and light level adjustments to special effects. These are the professional-level programs, but they have consumer-level versions as well (usually with the word "Elements" after it.)
It's very hard to convey techniques through a text article, but I'm going to link you to some videos and resources that I think you'll find helpful. The great thing about digital is you can now practice for a lot less money (you can fill a memory card up and can delete off what you don't like over and over). Have fun and don't be afraid of messing up--you may get shots that surprise you in a good way!
Before you purchase a digital camera, I highly recommend doing research and getting the most up-to-date information on choices available to you. What may be the right thing to tell you as of this article may not be the right thing 6 months down the road due to advancements in technology and the reduction in price that tends to happen over time. If at all possible, try out a camera before making a final purchase.
There are a wide range of accessories you can consider based on your budget. A tripod can allow you to get shots even in poorer light levels--where any small movement would normally blur the shot. Extra batteries and memory cards are extremely useful (it only takes one time of not having one when you need one to remind you of this). You can also upgrade your lenses to ones with higher quality or particular characteristics you would like (macro, wide-angle, etc.) An expodisc combined with your cameras memory for storing white balance is also very useful during wedding photography or any situation where the light will be changing often.
This is personal preference, but I think that Adobe makes the best software programs for digital photographers. Photoshop and Lightroom are extremely useful for everything from basic cropping and light level adjustments to special effects. These are the professional-level programs, but they have consumer-level versions as well (usually with the word "Elements" after it.)
It's very hard to convey techniques through a text article, but I'm going to link you to some videos and resources that I think you'll find helpful. The great thing about digital is you can now practice for a lot less money (you can fill a memory card up and can delete off what you don't like over and over). Have fun and don't be afraid of messing up--you may get shots that surprise you in a good way!
Friday, December 19, 2008
How to Set up a Digital Photography Studio
Years ago, photographers had to work with film cameras and wait for film to develop. Now, digital photography makes photography accessible to anyone. Even those who have never held a camera before can learn how to use a digital camera and see the pictures taken right away. Digital photography studios are similar to film photography studios because photographers use similar equipment--SLR cameras, lenses and external flashes. Here are steps to setting up a digital photography studio:
Plot a space that will be devoted to the studio. Digital photography studios should always be set up as if there is always a photo shoot, instead of folded and stowed away. Space should be allocated depending on the photography specialty and subjects. A portrait studio would take up less space than a fashion pictorial studio.
Step2Set up the camera equipment and background. Set the tripod and the different cameras that you will use to take pictures. Various kinds of lenses should be kept in a case that is easily accessible during a photo shoot. Backgrounds can be fabric and can be found in stores that specialize in photography. Lighting is also an essential component to a photo studio, and having boom lights and spot lights with different filters will allow you to compose different pictures.
Step3Make an inventory of accessories such as reflectors, fans and props. Listing these materials will allow you to anticipate what photo shoots will consist of as well as the expenses of the studio. When starting out, only buy the basics and add pieces to the studio as you see fit after a couple of projects.
Step4Load pictures on the computer and edit with photo editing software. Since this is a digital photography studio, it is easy to load images on the computer immediately. Use professional editing software such as Photoshop or Aperture, since these allow you more settings to work with--especially if you shoot with an SLR in raw image form. Arrange projects on the computer by folder, since a series of editing different pictures can get confusing and cluttered.
Plot a space that will be devoted to the studio. Digital photography studios should always be set up as if there is always a photo shoot, instead of folded and stowed away. Space should be allocated depending on the photography specialty and subjects. A portrait studio would take up less space than a fashion pictorial studio.
Step2Set up the camera equipment and background. Set the tripod and the different cameras that you will use to take pictures. Various kinds of lenses should be kept in a case that is easily accessible during a photo shoot. Backgrounds can be fabric and can be found in stores that specialize in photography. Lighting is also an essential component to a photo studio, and having boom lights and spot lights with different filters will allow you to compose different pictures.
Step3Make an inventory of accessories such as reflectors, fans and props. Listing these materials will allow you to anticipate what photo shoots will consist of as well as the expenses of the studio. When starting out, only buy the basics and add pieces to the studio as you see fit after a couple of projects.
Step4Load pictures on the computer and edit with photo editing software. Since this is a digital photography studio, it is easy to load images on the computer immediately. Use professional editing software such as Photoshop or Aperture, since these allow you more settings to work with--especially if you shoot with an SLR in raw image form. Arrange projects on the computer by folder, since a series of editing different pictures can get confusing and cluttered.
How to Set up a Digital Photography Studio
Years ago, photographers had to work with film cameras and wait for film to develop. Now, digital photography makes photography accessible to anyone. Even those who have never held a camera before can learn how to use a digital camera and see the pictures taken right away. Digital photography studios are similar to film photography studios because photographers use similar equipment--SLR cameras, lenses and external flashes. Here are steps to setting up a digital photography studio:
Plot a space that will be devoted to the studio. Digital photography studios should always be set up as if there is always a photo shoot, instead of folded and stowed away. Space should be allocated depending on the photography specialty and subjects. A portrait studio would take up less space than a fashion pictorial studio.
Step2Set up the camera equipment and background. Set the tripod and the different cameras that you will use to take pictures. Various kinds of lenses should be kept in a case that is easily accessible during a photo shoot. Backgrounds can be fabric and can be found in stores that specialize in photography. Lighting is also an essential component to a photo studio, and having boom lights and spot lights with different filters will allow you to compose different pictures.
Step3Make an inventory of accessories such as reflectors, fans and props. Listing these materials will allow you to anticipate what photo shoots will consist of as well as the expenses of the studio. When starting out, only buy the basics and add pieces to the studio as you see fit after a couple of projects.
Step4Load pictures on the computer and edit with photo editing software. Since this is a digital photography studio, it is easy to load images on the computer immediately. Use professional editing software such as Photoshop or Aperture, since these allow you more settings to work with--especially if you shoot with an SLR in raw image form. Arrange projects on the computer by folder, since a series of editing different pictures can get confusing and cluttered.
Plot a space that will be devoted to the studio. Digital photography studios should always be set up as if there is always a photo shoot, instead of folded and stowed away. Space should be allocated depending on the photography specialty and subjects. A portrait studio would take up less space than a fashion pictorial studio.
Step2Set up the camera equipment and background. Set the tripod and the different cameras that you will use to take pictures. Various kinds of lenses should be kept in a case that is easily accessible during a photo shoot. Backgrounds can be fabric and can be found in stores that specialize in photography. Lighting is also an essential component to a photo studio, and having boom lights and spot lights with different filters will allow you to compose different pictures.
Step3Make an inventory of accessories such as reflectors, fans and props. Listing these materials will allow you to anticipate what photo shoots will consist of as well as the expenses of the studio. When starting out, only buy the basics and add pieces to the studio as you see fit after a couple of projects.
Step4Load pictures on the computer and edit with photo editing software. Since this is a digital photography studio, it is easy to load images on the computer immediately. Use professional editing software such as Photoshop or Aperture, since these allow you more settings to work with--especially if you shoot with an SLR in raw image form. Arrange projects on the computer by folder, since a series of editing different pictures can get confusing and cluttered.
How to Improve Your Digital Photography Skills
Digital photography is a fun and exciting hobby, but it is also a skill that takes learning, practice, and often a little patience. Don’t worry, however, because in today’s world it is very easy to find useful resources to help improve your skills. Below you will find several tips to get you on your way to becoming a better photographer!
The first step towards improving your digital photography skills is often overlooked: read the instruction manual for your digital camera! Although not exactly a fun pastime, reading your manual is critical to helping you understand how your camera works. Once you know what your digital camera can do and how to do it, you will open up a whole new realm of possibilities for your photography.
Practicing Knowing how to use your camera is one thing, and understanding how to take good pictures is another. The best way to take better quality pictures is to PRACTICE! They say practice makes perfect and this couldn’t be more true than with photography. Use your digital camera daily, take pictures regularly, experiment with some of the special features of your camera, and get out of your comfort zone by shooting subjects you don’t normally shoot.
Digital Photography Book Another way to improve your digital photography skills is to read an informative book. Great books include The Digital Photography Book by Scott Kelby, Complete Digital Photography by Ben Long, and Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson. You can find links to these books in the Resources section below.
Photography forum Don’t underestimate the huge amount of resources to be found on the Internet when it comes to digital photography. There are several excellent blogs, forums, and other websites that provide many useful tips and offer communities of other photographers who can share and learn ideas. Links to some great sites are included below in the Resources section.
Photo sharing site Similar to the above point, you can consider joining a photo-sharing community. These communities are made up of amateurs and professionals alike and offer a wealth of knowledge for anyone looking to improve their photography skills. Links to useful photo sharing sites can be found in the Resources section below.
Camera Finally, you might want to consider upgrading your digital camera. It’s true that the photographer takes the picture, not the camera, but that’s not to say a better camera won’t help you improve your skills. Many better cameras offer features and functions that could make a world of difference with your photography.
The first step towards improving your digital photography skills is often overlooked: read the instruction manual for your digital camera! Although not exactly a fun pastime, reading your manual is critical to helping you understand how your camera works. Once you know what your digital camera can do and how to do it, you will open up a whole new realm of possibilities for your photography.
Practicing Knowing how to use your camera is one thing, and understanding how to take good pictures is another. The best way to take better quality pictures is to PRACTICE! They say practice makes perfect and this couldn’t be more true than with photography. Use your digital camera daily, take pictures regularly, experiment with some of the special features of your camera, and get out of your comfort zone by shooting subjects you don’t normally shoot.
Digital Photography Book Another way to improve your digital photography skills is to read an informative book. Great books include The Digital Photography Book by Scott Kelby, Complete Digital Photography by Ben Long, and Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson. You can find links to these books in the Resources section below.
Photography forum Don’t underestimate the huge amount of resources to be found on the Internet when it comes to digital photography. There are several excellent blogs, forums, and other websites that provide many useful tips and offer communities of other photographers who can share and learn ideas. Links to some great sites are included below in the Resources section.
Photo sharing site Similar to the above point, you can consider joining a photo-sharing community. These communities are made up of amateurs and professionals alike and offer a wealth of knowledge for anyone looking to improve their photography skills. Links to useful photo sharing sites can be found in the Resources section below.
Camera Finally, you might want to consider upgrading your digital camera. It’s true that the photographer takes the picture, not the camera, but that’s not to say a better camera won’t help you improve your skills. Many better cameras offer features and functions that could make a world of difference with your photography.
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