Digital Photography Guide – Getting Close Up and Personal!

Posted on October 13, 2011 by admin

You’d prefer to see your subject clearly, wouldn’t you? Just about every photo will certainly look more desirable if you move a few paces nearer to your subject. Filling the frame makes an enormous difference. When you accomplish it perfectly, your pictures look considerably more professional. This Digital Photography Guide ‘focuses’ on the benefits of getting up close and personal with your subject!

You don’t even have to take steps toward your subject. Instead of literally moving nearer, try utilizing your camera’s zoom to obtain a close up shot. Portraits actually look superior when they are totally zoomed in. That’s simply because the longer lens has a tendency to flatten facial elements, reducing unsightly elements, such as large noses, for example.

When taking pictures of friends (or family) many beginner photographers insist on including the subject’s complete body (or head as well as arms) in the shot. Instead, why not fill the frame by having your subject’s face only, especially if they are caught in a moment of reflection. Why move in closer? Well, by having less clutter, there is simply less to draw the eye away from your main interest. If there’s anything in the picture that distracts from your main subject, your eye will certainly be drawn to it, and the resulting image can look somewhat dull and uninteresting. Truly, close up human faces are simply something we gain great pleasure from studying.

If you can’t get near enough when you ‘re taking the shot, you can easily zoom in later utilizing Photoshop, or similar application. Crop out all except the subject’s face and see the difference it makes – a much more powerful image. The good thing about today’s digital cameras is simply that they have numerous megapixels. Even if you crop out an enormous part of the image, you should still be able to produce a decent quality portrait.

If using a compact camera, be mindful of parallax. Since the viewfinder is not at an equivalent position with the lens, centering the topic in the viewfinder might possibly result in an ultimately off-center picture. You can easily counter this by way of using the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder. Some point-and-shoots actually have a workaround built into the viewfinder. If, in your viewfinder, you see what looks like a dashed box, that’s simply the same section that the lens sees. You can then utilize the viewfinder as long as you use the dashed box to frame your shot.

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Photography Course Online – Why You Should Own A Digital SLR!

Posted on October 13, 2011 by admin

Whether you have recently started photography, or been taking pictures for some time, sooner or later on you will most likely face a decision; start using a digital SLR, or upgrade the one you have currently. However possessing access to the greatest hardware you can afford can definitely improve your photography profoundly. As long as you learn to use it correctly, you can make certain you are always in control not the camera.

The most apparent advantage of using a digital SLR will be in picture quality. You could compare a compact achieving 7 megapixels, along with an SLR having 3 megapixels, and as assume the compact may produce better pictures. More pixels implies more quality, surely? Well, actually, no! Image sensors on compacts tend to be smaller than their DSLR equivalent. Packing so many pixels onto these sensors can easily create ‘noise’; i.e. when looked at closely the photo will show up little dots or freckles.

Another benefit a DSLR delivers is the capability to shoot and save your images in different formats. The well-known JPEG is catered for, yet a DSLR will additionally allow you to save images in RAW format. Whilst these are generally huge files when saved, the trade offs outweigh this. Firstly, the RAW image will definitely produce superior quality as well as detail than a JPEG. Additionally, when carrying out post-production in Photoshop or equivalent, RAW images allow much more finely tuned control. A very good photography course online will offer added details on using RAW images.

A DSLR will certainly be equipped to handle an extensive selection of photographic situations. This is conceivable due to the vast array of lenses available on the market. You can easily connect an appropriate lens to match every situation, confident that the results are merely limited to your own personal skill. For instance, you could include a telephoto lens if you want to get in close to a subject that is far away, or a broad angle lens to capture landscapes. Macro lenses enable you to get up close and personal to nature’s creatures, and can result in the most astonishing of photographs.

These are simply a few instances of the positive aspects of using a DSLR. Definitely, if you are serious about your hobby, then a DSLR ought to be a consideration. If you actively adhere to a photography class online, there will certainly be assignments along the way that will benefit from the superiority and adaptability that a DSLR furnishes. All I might add is that when you have experienced a DSLR, you might not feel like using a compact camera again.

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Digital Photography Tricks – Discover How To Discard Auto And Master Manual Settings!

Posted on October 10, 2011 by admin

Mastering aperture and shutter settings are key if you want to begin taking truly memorable photographs. Automatic settings can do a good job for you – but the camera is doing the job for you, and will interpret the picture the best way it can. For you to apply the digital photography tricks you want to, you need to control your camera. The benefits don’t end there though. You will find that as you start having more influence over the final image, your confidence as a photographer will grow in leaps and bounds.

Firstly, make sure you locate the manual mode on your camera, usually depicted by the letter ‘M’ on your settings wheel. This will enable you to adjust the shutter and aperture settings.
How long the shutter stays open dictates how much light gets in – in simple terms, the longer it is open, the more light gets through, and affects how light or dark your image looks.

Whilst the shutter is controlling how long the hole that lets light in is open, aperture influences how big that hole is in the first place. Not surprisingly, the bigger the hole, the more light. Apertures are read in ‘f’ numbers, such as f/4, f/11 etc. The higher the ‘f’ number, the smaller the hole – so f/11 lets in less light than f/4. Sounds confusing – but you’ll soon get your head round it once you’ve started doing things manually for a while.

So how do you use shutter and aperture in your digital photography? Well, they sound initially to both be performing a similar job – controlling the light into the camera. Whilst this is true, aperture also dictates the depth of field. This means that by varying the aperture reading, you change which parts of your picture are in, or out of, focus. A high f reading of, say f/22, lets in less light, but gives you a picture with a high depth of field – which means you get more of the picture in focus. If you want to retain focus on just your main subject (as in a portrait, for example) you could choose a low reading of around f/3.5.

Altering the shutter speed can affect how clear your image is – that is to say the movement aspect of your photograph. For example, to take sports photographs you would need to use a fast shutter speed, taking a landscape at dusk would require a slow shutter setting – to allow enough light in. In summary, a slow shutter speed refers to leaving the shutter open for a long time – such as 1/30 of a second. A fast shutter speed means the shutter is only open for a short time – like 1/250 second, or more.

Mastering manual settings when you are used to automatic can be challenging at first. The joy of digital is that it encourages experimentation. It is a good idea to go out, take some shots, and then review the results at home. See what worked, what didn’t and learn from your mistakes. A decent photography course online would be able to guide you through until you have the confidence to use manual …..automatically!

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Photography Course Online – Putting The WOW Factor Into Your Wildlife Shots!

Posted on October 10, 2011 by admin

Where do you begin if you want to take memorable wildlife shots? A little application and some time spent following a reliable photography course online can soon equip you with the tools and skills required. And whilst using a decent SLR gives you an advantage, most modern day digital cameras are, almost surprisingly, more than suitable.

One of the key traits of a true wildlife photographer is patience. Be prepared for a long wait to capture the image you have in your mind’s eye. The majority of wild animals work to their own time schedule, not ours. Therefore, preparation always helps. If you want to capture a particular bird, for example, do your research and find out when and where it is likely to appear. If necessary, make two or three trips before your planned shoot to experiment. You may be lucky and get the shot you wanted straight away, but be prepared for a long wait, and take along some basic supplies to keep your concentration levels up.

To successfully shoot an animal in the wild, you should make sure their eyes are totally in focus. Whatever else is going on in the photo, this allows the viewer to identify with the subject. If you compare similar shots, one out and one in focus, you will easily see how much stronger a shot taken with eyes in focus is. Whilst we may not be able to talk to the animals, eyes in focus creates a strong connection that almost allows the viewer to enter the animal’s world, even if just momentarily.

 

Whilst capturing nature’s animals in the wild is the ideal, this is not always a possibility for many people. So would a trip to the zoo suffice? The short answer is yes, but you need to be creative to make this situation work well. I would suggest that you do not try to fit this project in with a family trip to the zoo. Naturally, your companions will want to see as much as they can during the visit, and this situation does not lend itself to capturing great moments.

The best way to approach a zoo shoot is to make the trip solo, and before you go, properly research want animals the zoo has, and what you want to capture. Concentrate on no more than two or three types of animals during the day, and ensure that their surroundings enable plenty of views where they can look natural, or the background can be easily hidden. At the end of the day, you should aim to make the subject appear as if they are in natural surroundings, even if you know this not to be the case. It is a secret that the viewer does not need to be aware of.

These are just a few ideas to help make taking wildlife shots easier, and reference to a reputable photography course online would, of course, provide detailed guidance to some of the more technical aspects that would further assist you.

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Easily Take Portraits To Make Your Family And Friends Proud!

Posted on October 6, 2011 by admin

Every so often, I open up the cupboard at home that contains all the old family photographs. I can’t help wishing that some of those pictures that hold such sweet memories were not so blurry, or that the subject actually looked like they wanted to have their photo taken. It’s only in later years, as I became an accomplished photographer, that I realised that only small changes to the way those original shots were taken would have made a huge difference to the final image.

The easiest way to start in portrait photography is to take pictures of your family or friends. Indeed, this is all that many people aspire to, but with just a little development it is not unrealistic to quickly build confidence to a level that you will comfortably take portraits outside of your social comfort zone. It can be quite a buzz when a friend of a friend actually recognises your talent and asks you to capture the images for a christening, or record  a get together for their grandparents’ wedding anniversary.

There are an array of imaginative, yet simple, secrets that professional photographers use to make their images stand out. For example, ordinarily we call out “watch the birdie” and the person being photographed is simply required to stare into the lens, say “cheese” and with one click the image is done. But how about asking them to focus on something outside the camera’s field of vision? This gives the picture a feeling of candidness, allowing the viewer a semblance of intimacy into the subject’s world. It also creates some intrigue, as we wonder just what they are looking at.

Or how about introducing a prop into the portrait photograph? For instance, if you are photographing a child, they may well have a favourite toy that they like to have around. Include this, and it not only adds a second point of interest, but also introduces a story-like element into the photo. Experimentation is key here, because what works in the mind, does not necessarily transfer to the final image. One of the great joys of photography is that you can never be quite sure what you are going to finally produce – but a little preparation and pre-thought about what you want to achieve gives you the best chance of creating memorable images.

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Digital Photography Tricks – Grab The Opportunity To Take Stunning Travel Shots On Your Vacation!

Posted on October 5, 2011 by admin

If you’re like me, you have one or two decent family holidays a year. This may be in a perfect Caribbean resort, for optimum rest and relaxation, or a more adventurous holiday for those pioneering types. Either way, you want to capture every memorable moment and image. What follows is a summary of key digital photography tricks to ensure you don’t return home disappointed with the outcome of your shots.

Just because you are on holiday, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get up early, as this is when you can get some of your best shots. Just after dawn, light can be softer. The sun’s low angle is great for landscapes. Getting out and about early also means you can avoid crowds, so historical sites and landmarks can be captured in their full glory.

Shops and markets make perfect locations for really getting a feel of your holiday destination. A little research will tell you when the local markets take place, and these can often be colourful events. Shop displays and market stalls create many interesting shapes and colours, and look out for those recurring themes, such as piles of similar goods or boxes all stacked together.

Exciting actions shots are available, especially on beach holidays. Watersports can produce some of your finest results. Take with you, if possible, a telephoto lens of at least 300mm. This will enable you to get close up shots of windsurfers, waterskiers, or even paragliders. A fast shutter speed, of around 1/1000 sec, will be required to freeze the action.

No set of holiday photographs is complete without the classic sunset shot. It’s easy to fall into the trap of waiting for the sun to set and just pressing the shutter. Sure, you can still grab a decent sunset picture, but it actually helps to provide a little foreground interest. For example, you could include a local youth sitting on the beach with his dog, or a group of bathers enjoying an early evening dip. Compare the scenes with and without and you will see a huge difference to the impact of your final creation.

Finally – I could write an almost unending list of travel digital photography tricks, but just as important when you are taking pictures on vacation is to keep everyone happy! Your family may not be as mad about photography as you are. Make sure you plan your time to allow for you to go solo to capture the shots you really want – but also make time to include your travelling companions, so that the family album has some good additions too.

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Photography Course Online – Discover The Secret Of The Photographer’s Eye!

Posted on October 3, 2011 by admin

What does “developing a photographer’s eye” actually mean? To me, it is the ability to spot photographic opportunities that would pass the non-photographer by. One simple definition is “to enable you to create great images from everyday scenes”. If you follow a photography course online, developing this talent will result in amazing shots for your portfolio.

Once you have this ability, you will not look at everyday objects, or scenes, in the same way. You will have trained your subconscious mind to be on the look out for photographic opportunities where previously you did not even know they exist. And once you start to do this, it’s almost like a religious experience!

I knew I had mastered this when I was on a photographic assignment in the City of London. I was walking across London Bridge, and saw some steps leading down to the riverside. I must have walked past these steps hundreds of times before, but now with my camera in hand, I saw something different.

The steps led down at an unusual angle, at juxtaposition with the actual handrail. The metal of the handrail shone as I had never noticed before. I kneeled down, and took shots with the handrail in close focus, the steps and hurrying crowds in the distance and out of focus. Reflections of the steps and people made interesting patterns in the gleaming metal of the handrail, and added a further dimension to the images I was taking.

I then changed focus, bringing the scurrying cocktail of holidaymakers and commuters into focus, and rendering the handrail out of focus. This changed the dynamics of the picture yet again, with the mix of office workers dressed in smart suits and sightseers carrying bags all moving up or down the stairs.

I heard a woman behind me say to her husband “what’s that man doing?” To her, I was some madman kneeling down at the top of some stairs, with my camera seemingly pointed at a bland and totally uninteresting handrail. If only she could have seen what I could from my viewpoint.

When I looked above me, I could see I was below a glass ceiling (part of an office building). I then saw the photographic opportunities of the people reflected in this, and continued to snap away. To passers by, I was probably perceived as crazy, but to me I knew this was the moment I had developed the “eye”. I was doing things differently to “normal” photographers, and knew I would have the photographs as a reward for my efforts.

Once I had mastered this, it quickly became an automatic nuance of my brain, whenever I had a camera in my hand. If you are following a photography course online, see if you can develop a photographer’s eye – for once you have done this you will start to feel like a real photographer, and your images will improve, as a result.

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Digital Photography Tricks – Rules Of Composition That Make Your Pictures Stand Out!

Posted on October 3, 2011 by admin

The rules of composition lay at the heart of a successful photograph. By concentrating on key elements in your viewfinder, correct composition will capture the audience’s attention. An image is basically a bunch of lines, squares, circles and triangles arranged within four edges – the aim is to put these together in such a way that the end result is pleasing. Below are a few digital photography tricks to ensure your pictures have maximum impact.

The rule of thirds is commonly referred to. Here, the viewfinder is divided into thirds horizontally and vertically, so you end up with nine sections. The aim is to ensure your point of interest appears on the intersection of any two of these lines. The lines need only be approximate, the idea being that the picture moves away from total symmetry, which may be somewhat uninteresting.

Recurring shapes and themes can make for a satisfying result. For example, waves moving across the picture from one corner to the other, or a series of hills in a landscape.

Still water can make a perfect reflection, but another trick to consider is using a reflection in moving water, because of the abstract nature of the shapes produced.

Framing the subject with background or foreground detail can create depth. Frames can be found everywhere – archways, overhanging trees, someone peering out of a window. The frame is essentially there to draw your viewer’s eye to the main subject of your picture. Frames work well for all types of photographs. The idea is to develop a keen eye for spotting a suitable natural frame, as, in many cases, adding this element will have a real impact on your finished image.

Finally, one of the finest digital photography tricks to learn is that the strongest compositions may also be the most simple. The saying “more is less” holds true. When reviewing the elements of your picture, include only those that are really necessary. A cluttered background can be effectively removed by using a wide aperture to take it out of focus. It then becomes a subtle blend of colours used to complement the main picture.

 

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Digital Photography Guide – Make Your Landscapes Capture The Drama And Beauty Of Your Subject!

Posted on September 29, 2011 by admin

Landscapes remain one of the most popular sectors of photography, but difficult to master. This digital photography guide gives tips to take your shots to another level, or maybe just provide reminders to those who have already taken such images.

Research is key to a successful shoot. Take time to find the right location. A local library will have books that suggest suitable places – or your nearest tourism office will have leaflets that could provide the inspiration for the perfect scene. The easiest way, of course, is to search the internet by entering “landscape photography in …..” – your local area.

On location, you need to be aware of key elements that make a great shot…not just a good shot. You have this one chance to take a unique picture, so composition is everything. Most photographers know about the rule of thirds (i.e. splitting your picture into nine equal segments and ensuring a point of interest appears on one of the cross sections). However, this does not always need to be followed rigidly; if there is a certain shape or element that the viewers eye can be drawn to, be bold and go with your heart.

A large expanse of water is always a great place to explore. In calm conditions, you can be in the envious position of having two images for the price of one; a glass-like reflection of a still lake will add depth and interest to your image. There is a price to pay though – invariably the best shots come early in the morning. However, the sacrifice of a couple of hours in bed will seem well worth it.

Dusk and dawn are superb times for capturing unusual scenes, utilising shadows and creative framing. For example, low sun hidden behind trees can cast interesting shadow lines. Trees, flowers and plants can all be utilised to make a frame around or in the foreground of your picture. You can then use these frames to draw the viewer towards the main subject.

The best thing about landscapes is that no two pictures ever look the same. Yes, it may be easy to recognise the location, but depending on many elements (the time of day, cloud formations, weather, season etc.) a good photographer will be able to take a once in a lifetime picture that no one else will ever capture.

To learn how you can take your landscape photography to a whole new level, try out Digital Photography Success, the course that transforms your skills within just 14 days!

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Photography Course Online – How To Get On The Fast Track To Professional Looking Photographs

Posted on September 28, 2011 by admin

These days, cameras are so easy to use that you can be pointing, and shooting immediately. However, most new photographers don’t realise the potential of what they can achieve, believing that “real” photographs can only be taken by professionals. Nothing could be further from the truth.

This is where a photography course online comes into the equation. If you don’t know the secrets to taking great photographs, your pictures will look plain ordinary. Yet most people don’t realise that a few simple insider tips will transform your photos from being run of the mill to pictures that will amaze and impress your viewers.

So what sort of skills and knowledge could you gain from taking some basic online training?

* How to use any digital camera (from a simple compact model to a top-of-the-range SLR) to get professional looking shots
* How to take powerful Landscapes that inspire
* How to take sharp and crystal clear Night shots
* How to move from taking snapshots to beautiful works of art – so good that people would pay you for them
* How to take family, friend and pet portraits that flatter the model every time – without the need for expensive studio and lighting set ups
* How to take shots that most people would not even think about – to make your pictures stand out from the crowd
* How to easily take stunning black and white images. It is truly amazing how a simple monochrome picture can be much more powerful than its colour equivalent
* How to use the seasons to your advantage – whether the weather is hot or cold
* How to take total control of your camera – so that you decide the final results…not the camera

It is well worth considering a photography course online that can swiftly move your photos to another level. It is surprisingly easy to do, and invariably you will find that within a couple of weeks the breathtaking clarity and composition of your shots will impress you, your family and friends.

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