Camera & Accessories Search

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Slim Digital Cameras And Their Features

By Pat Durrette

Photos are everywhere. We love taking them, sharing them, and viewing them. And of course, we all visit social networking sites that show off our friend's pictures as well. Today, everyone seems to want to chronicle their lives whenever they can. Enter slim digital cameras.

Technology has improved to the point where camera lenses are getting smaller and smaller, but not only that. The parts that allow zoom mechanisms to function are also getting smaller. Memory is also getting smaller as it grows in capacity, and shrinks in price. This technology is making its way to the consumer in many ways, one of the most popular is the digital camera. Everyone is trying to grab onto every moment in their lives with their digital cameras, while they are working harder than ever as well. The large cameras of yesteryear are on the way out. Especially a heavy, large camera with the carrying bag it comes with, and extra batteries, USB cables, extra memory cards and power adapters.

Photo-happy customers want something smaller that easily fits in a purse, or a pocket. The way it used to be, miniaturizing meant a heftier price tag. In modern times we are now seeing the prices are not much different for slim digital cameras than they are for larger models. One common issue with the first slim models to emerge, was the smaller your camera became, the smaller your LCD screen became. LCD technology has come just a long of a way as anything else, which has made LCD screens more affordable on cameras and other things, which in turn makes them standard on small cameras. These days we have slim digital cameras with LCDs as large as 3.2" -- the same size, and in some cases larger, than their bulkier counterparts.

You may be surprised that the slim digital cameras that you see often have the same features that they had even when they were bigger and bulkier: digital and optical zoom, red-eye removal, face detection -- and they have all of this while being markedly smaller. They also have more built-in hard drive space, to sizes up to 8 to 16 gigabytes in only a few years. Some memory cards are SO small that you have to nest them inside a larger adapter to fit into a desktop or laptop PC. And these smaller types of memory cards can still hold over 8 gigabytes.

The world is busy with work, and busy with taking pictures. It just seems that everything really is shrinking in size, and slim digital cameras with decent-sized LCD screens are a testament to that. With a size that allows you to stash your camera in a pocket, you can forget carrying around that cumbersome camera fanny pouch. And these slim digital cameras aren't part of some kind of hybrid cell phone. These cameras are fully-functional and they can do anything that any other type of camera can do just as well. All with a cost that won't need you to finance. It's the "anywhere goes" digital camera!

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Thursday, November 26, 2009

Sigma Camera Lenses

By James Morley

Want to be a professional ? With Sigma Camera Lenses, you get technology that will take your photography to the next level, no matter which type you chose.
Among the technology you will find on their models:
* The aspherical "ASP" technology allows for compact size while at the same time maintains high quality opticals.
* The APO lenses minimize light aberration so that the colors you see when you take the picture are the colors you see when you develop the picture.
* The Optical Stabilizer ("OS") technology will keep your photos from blurring. This also allows you to take pictures at slower speed than would be expected in the light.
* Rear focusing ("RF") technology. This allows the rear lenses to refocus independently when the camera is adjusted to maintain aberration. This is especially handy when taking close up photography.

With such a huge range available,These are just some of the technologies available in the Sigma lenses.

This brand name is almost antique,Sigma Camera Lens have been made for almost five decades. They have been making the lenses that photo enthusiasts have been demanding over all that time. So if you have determined that your camera bag is lacking, Sigma can fill that void.

With such a vast array of products available, With the Sigma Camera Lenses you can diversify your choices of lenses to fit your camera. Your choices are not limited to those that are manufactured by your camera body maker. If you normally take a lot of photos in one genre and have a lens for that purpose, you can purchase a Sigma lens for those other pictures you take. In that way you can diversify your repertoire. A telephoto lens can help take picture at a distance. Conversely, a macro lens will help get more detail for up close photography like in nature photography. Wide angle lens will help with photos of large groups, crowds, or buildings.

They are not as expensive as you may think, Sigma Camera Lenses are an affordable approach to obtaining the lenses you need. Sigma makes lenses that fit most of the major camera brands. So whether you need a single all purpose lens or a group of lens, Sigma should have what you are looking for. Sigma's reputation of quality and value has made them the largest third party lens manufacturer.

There are many keys to success, But the main key to successful Single Lens Reflex ("SLR") photography is to have the proper lenses for the different types of photography you do. If you are taking portrait, casual, sports, nature, or still life photography, there are lenses best suited for each. You can also get some great multi-purpose lenses. This can get expensive, but if you are making the commitment to superior pictures, you will want to have the right equipment.

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Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Taking Better Low Light Photos With Your Pink Digital Camera

By Corwin Graves

Becoming good at taking photographs doesn't happen overnight; it's a gradual process that requires a great deal of practice, and it requires that you ask a lot of questions. One of the most common questions that many photographers have is how to take better photos in low light situations? They often think that there is one particular camera that will allow them to capture spectacular low-light photos, though this isn't necessarily the case. It's understandable that people become frustrated when their camera hunts to gain focus in low light situations only to product an image that is ultimately undesirable. Regardless of the type of camera you own, there a few tips that can turn blurry and/or dark photos into clear and crisp shots that you will be proud of.

The large majority of people reading this article that already own a point-and-shoot style camera won't necessarily be interested in making the leap to the DLSR camera. Therefore, the focus of this article will be to offer some simple, cost effective suggestions that will help you to improve your low light photography. Before exploring some of these options, however, it's important to understand why many cameras suffer when it comes to capturing photos under low light conditions.

You see, when a camera prepares to capture an image it must first allow the lens to open wide enough and long enough to allow the proper amount of light to come in. The problem under low light conditions is that the camera must tell the lens to stay open for an extended period of time. During this time your hands or other external forces will likely move the camera slightly, thereby creating a blurred image. The goal is to keep the camera still while offering it the light it needs to capture a given image.

Perhaps the simplest and most commonly used solution is to invest in a basic quality tripod. A tripod will allow you to hold your camera still during an exposure and will prevent you from moving or shaking the camera with your hands. A decent tripod can be purchased for under $50.00, and there are a bunch of tripods available to fit a variety of different cameras. There are even tripod options that are lighter and more portable; however, these will typically demand a higher price.

Another option to consider that will increase the amount of available light is to use your camera's built in flash mechanism. While most point-and-shoot style cameras weren't designed to light up an entire warehouse sized room, they will perform sufficiently well when used under dimly lit conditions in a normal sized area. One area where a small flash will not perform well is under very dark conditions, since the flash will tend to overexpose the foreground subject and underexpose the background. These situations are extreme and will either require a much bigger flash or a series of flashes. It's safe to assume that most people will not have the equipment required to produce a usable image under these conditions.

Apart from the tips mentioned above, another option may be to consider an upgrade to a digital SLR camera, since many of these cameras can accommodate larger flash units and faster lenses. Whatever method you choose to follow, it's important to understand the limitations of your current equipment. By knowing what your camera can and can't accomplish you will be in a better position to capture beautiful low light photos.

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Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Canon Macro Lenses

By James Morley

For the amateur ,or the professional Just like all their classes of lenses, Canon has built a set of macro lenses for all types of uses. Along with top opticals, all these lenses come with features that guarantee a stable picture such as the floating optical system. These lenses will make anyone a pro.

There are many choices available to you, At the other end of the spectrum is the EF 50mm f/2.5 Compact. This lens can take photos up to 1:1 and with its local focal range you should be able to take a subject far away with disturbing the setting. The MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5x allows you to get photos in a 1:1 the way up to 5 times life size. Normally this type of magnification requires additional equipment; in this lens, it is all built in. These are just three examples of the type of macro lenses you can get from Canon.

There is something for everybody, Just like all their classes of lenses, Canon has built a set of macro lenses for all types of uses. Along with top opticals, all these lenses come with features that guarantee a stable picture such as the floating optical system. These lenses will make anyone a pro.

Such is the concept of macro photography, you will be taking objects with a 1:1 or life-size image, meaning you will want to ensure that detail comes through clear. This photography is most commonly connected with nature photography: you can get close up of insects, fauna, or flora. You can even get photography at as much as a 5:1 ratio, which means the eyeballs of an insect would come clearly into focus. Macro lenses come in focal ranges up to 200 mm which would make it possible to shoot insects, small birds, or small animals. Canon macro lenses are some of the leading equipment in the field.

At the other end of the spectrum is the EF 50mm f/2.5 Compact. This lens can take photos up to 1:1 and with its local focal range you should be able to take a subject far away with disturbing the setting. The MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5x allows you to get photos in a 1:1 the way up to 5 times life size. Normally this type of magnification requires additional equipment; in this lens, it is all built in. These are just three examples of the type of macro lenses you can get from Canon.

Just like all their classes of lenses, Canon has built a set of macro lenses for all types of uses. Along with top opticals, all these lenses come with features that guarantee a stable picture such as the floating optical system. These lenses will make anyone a pro.

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Tuesday, November 10, 2009

How to Capture those Perfect Wedding Moments

By Dan Feildman

Your wedding is one of those moments in your life that you want to remember forever. Capturing that special day through photographs is one way you can keep the memories alive forever. Fortunately you have a variety of options to choose from when it is time to decide what kind of photographs you want to have taken for that important day.

Here is a guide in achieving the wedding photography of a couple's dreams:

1. Selecting the right photographer Before you can choose a wedding photographer the couple must first decide on the styles of photos they want.

Portrait photographers typically can take both formal and informal photos; however, they more than likely will concentrate on posed or formal photos as opposed to candid ones.

Photojournalists typically focus mainly on candid shots, not posed.

Hobbyist photographers are typically a friend or relative who would offer their service for a pretty low price. Unless they have taken wedding photos before you probably won't know what kinds of photos they will take and you do run the risk of having photos not turn out as well as what you would receive from a professional.

2. Using the right camera Professional wedding photographers usually use two basic camera types: the 35mm and the medium format. 35mm cameras may produce pictures that are a little grainy, but its usually only the photographer themselves that notice the difference. They also could use digital technology, which is preferred as the photos are ready to view much sooner and digital technology often produces better results.

3. Color or black and white photos? Most couples tend to have color photos taken yet you may want to see whether you can have some black and whites taken as they give a very dramatic effect. Black and white photos generally last longer than color photos, though color films capture the details of the event more appropriately. If the photographer you have chosen is using digital technology they can take both types easily. If not, you can have your photos all taken in color and then converted into black and white once you have viewed the images.

4, Personality of the photographer Most couples want a photographer who can take great pictures but who is also friendly and sociable. Interview your photographer candidates and make sure you can work together. You also want to ask for references and view his portfolio of work to make sure his standards meet yours.

Following these tips will help couples get the perfect photos to preserve the memories of their special day. Great photos can be showcased proudly and passed down to future generations to cherish.


Digital Cameras - The Perfect Photography Tool

By Dan Feildman

Daily we hear about new innovations in the technology field. Whether it is computers, televisions or cars, manufacturers continually come up with new and innovative ideas. There is nowhere this can be found better than with digital cameras. For many years now the American consumer has slowly switched from film cameras to digital since digital cameras produce clearer photos and provide the photographer with instant feedback as to how the picture turned out.

The basic idea of digital camera becoming a hit among the masses is that it is absolutely different from its predecessor devices. The old conventional cameras used to be dependent entirely on the chemical and mechanical processes to develop the images. They were so uncomfortable to handle. More so, they used to deliver poor quality images that did not satisfy the users. People were not happy with the working of these old and uncomfortable cameras and were waiting for some new technology.

Even digital cameras have come a long way since they were first introduced onto the market. Digital cameras today are smart, instant and high-tech. Even better, they are easy enough to use that even a child can produce high quality photos. Features included on digital cameras are easy to figure out and simply by using automatic focus anyone can simply point and click to get amazing results. It is difficult to find any home still reliant on film as digital cameras are the trend of the modern times; ready to deliver all your needs, in just a few seconds.

Digital cameras work by using built-in sensors which record all the images electronically. No longer do we need to rely on film to capture our images. Photos are stored on built-in memory chips as well as portable mini-cards which can store as many as 2000 images. Once you have taken your photos you can easily transfer your pictures directly to your computer for printing or for editing. One of the greatest things is that you can delete any photo you do not like without wasting film and film processing costs.

Given all the things already mentioned you can easily understand why digital cameras are so popular. In fact, it is difficult to even find a film camera in today's market as digital cameras are taking over the photo marketplace. They are emerging as a high quality and high performance alternatives of the traditional cameras.

It is difficult to believe that the basic components of both digital and film cameras are somewhat the same. Both cameras have a series of powerful lenses. These lenses focus the light in order to create an image of the particular object you want to shoot. The main difference between the two types of cameras is that instead of focusing light on a piece of a traditional film to capture the image, the digital camera focuses the light on a semiconductor device, which electronically records the light. A built-in computer then disperses this electronic info down into several digital data. All the interesting, fun and advanced digital cameras are the perfect results of this digital technology.

If you are going to buy a digital camera, it is important to understand the basics of its working. You will be able to identify the best digital camera for yourself by answering some of the similar questions. Why exactly do you need a digital camera? Will you use it to earn a living for yourself? Will you upload your photos on the Internet and earn from them? Do you need the best quality digital camera? Are you an average user of digital camera seeking fun or a serious professional photographer?

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Monday, November 9, 2009

Professional Digital Cameras Are A Head Above The Rest

By Tracy Littleton

The realm of digital photography has expanded, and technology has improved to the point where professional photographers can comfortably make the transition from their 35mm film cameras (or SLR -- "single lens reflex") to fully professional digital cameras ("digital SLR"). The features provided by the latest digital SLR's allow the photographer to review his or her captures, keep the good ones and discard any undesired shots. This is just the most basic benefit over the old film cameras, and we will take a look at some other ones in this article.

Professional digital cameras can also take pictures in two of the best image formats around: Tagged Image Film Format (TIFF) and RAW, these are great because they are uncompressed and so they are extremely high quality. "RAW" is not actually a file type but a general term used to describe raw images that have not been processed yet and are stored as data. Each manufacturer has their own RAW extension, for example; Sony's ".arw", or Nikon's ".nef". Professional photographers need these uncompressed images so that they can edit them from the base up with software on their computer. This takes every step of photography out of the dark room and into the computer, with limitless results and possibilities. With uncompressed images and high quality photo edit software, you can edit any part of a photograph that you do not want or need, and it will not affect the photo itself. This is possible with software programs that use uncompressed image files.

Professional digital cameras also allow you to switch out your lens just like the old film SLR's. This is great, as professional photographers can have an array of lenses for their digital cameras much like they would with any other camera. Lenses come in all kinds of configurations, from zoom depth, telephoto, wide angle, macro and prime lens. Some lenses have a set aperture or exposure ratio, while others allow manual control. This can give you a wide array of shooting options and can let you take truly professional photographs with easy.

These are powerful tools because you can combine the special lenses, the uncompressed photos, and the photo editing software you can use will make it possible for you to be a sort of unstoppable force. While these features are certainly not necessary for just anyone taking photographs, they are valuable tools for any enthusiast or professional. While true diehards still use the 35mm film SLR cameras, the DSLR can make it a tough decision for anyone serious about photography.

Professionals that use digital cameras can easily share photos with clients or companies when need be. A traveling photographer doesn't have to wait to return home and have his or her film processed in a dark room before viewing the results. Professional digital cameras bring a whole host of new features to the table that used to be unimaginable, and it is a load of stress off of any professional photographer's shoulders.

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Understanding The Significance of Video Surveillance Systems In Home and Business Security

By Alonzo Nevill

Video surveillance systems can be used in many instances and they provide an accurate record of activity going on under their watch. Video surveillance is a great idea for a business owner who is not at their business at all times of the day to watch what is going on in their business during the hours when they are open. Anything can happen while the owner of a business is in the store or when they are not there. If there is a store front business, video surveillance systems can be extremely helpful in the case that someone shoplifts from the store. Video surveillance will catch the shoplifter stealing from the store, and can be watched by security at the time of the act, which allows them to catch that person before they leave the store.

The tool is not just for thieves and shoplifters; camera surveillance is also used for monitoring your staff's activities while the manager or the owners is not around. Video surveillance is utilized to assure that business staff or workers are performing their work diligently .It will also avoid employees in failing from their jobs for long hours in every working day. Take note that, it is not only outsiders who steal and it's another reason that surveillance are installed to make sure employees are not stealing from the cash locker which is accessible for them.

It is very advantageous to install video surveillance camera systems especially during non-business hours or at night time. Alarm systems will surely be turn on to alert the law enforcement if a trespasser tries to get inside the premises and it usually happens while everyone is not around after dealing hours. Besides, video cameras will aid the law enforcement to recognize that the suspect who broke into the store, how they get in and what they got. Allowing the video surveillance camera systems operating after hours will enhance the possibility of capturing the criminal if someone breaks into the business establishment, office or store.

Video surveillance systems are great to use in parking lots outside of businesses as well. Parking lots experience break ins just as much or more than businesses do. If a business has a parking lot, it is a good idea to use video surveillance in this parking lot to identify who is involved if a car theft happens. monitoring the parking lot will increase the level of safety of the business as customers and clients will feel more comfortable knowing that an individual will be caught by cameras.

Some people choose to use video surveillance for instances when they are not in their home and have someone looking after their children for child care. Background checks on nanny's, babysitters, and house cleaners can be done to ensure that they have no criminal background, but nanny cams help to make sure that children are being cared for appropriately without violence, and to ensure that the people who are hired to watch your children and clean the home are not stealing from the home. There have been instances where nanny's have been caught on nanny cameras hurting children and disciplining them in an inappropriate manner. These cameras will help to prevent these crimes against children or catch these people in the act of a crime so that it does not happen again and if they are caught it helps to prevent these people from being hired by any one else in the future.

Video camera surveillance is an overall good idea to keep in a business or in the home. It prevents employees and customers from stealing and shoplifting and keeps an eye on the place of business while the boss or owner is away from the business. Video surveillance also cuts down on crime which can happen such as a break in after hours and parking lot crime. These systems are also great to keep in the home to make sure that child care providers are not harming the children or being negligent while they are on the job. Video camera surveillance is a third eye which will help police detect who criminals are if any crime does take place at the workplace. It is a safety measure which keeps rolling after hours and will help keep business running smoothly.

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Sunday, November 8, 2009

Things To Consider In Choosing Day/Night Cameras For Your video Camera Surveillance Needs

By Dan Musse

A Short Summary

When it comes to video camera surveillance requirements, color and black and white CCTV security cameras are feasible security options. However, these two have different specialties. If you want to have color features, use color security cameras which is very effective in getting colors of criminals, vehicles or other possessions done during the crime. By getting the color information, it may hasten the flow of investigation. Color security cameras accurately produce colors because on the time of creating, IR cut filter is positioned on top of the imager. This let the cut filter to see only with the visible levels of spectrum. As a result, color surveillance cameras have less capability in creating functional images in low light setting.

On the contrary, black and white video camera surveillance setups don't have an IR cut filter because they are intended to interpret color. Without the filter, B...W CCTV camera options can utilize other light frequencies like infrared. Infrared which come from a numerous sources, including the sun, fluorescent lights, incandescent lights and especially infrared illuminators. Consequently ,B...W surveillance cameras operates notably better in low light and some can see at light levels 0.0001 lux which is almost complete darkness. Other advantage of B...W video surveillance cameras is the ability to illuminate an area with IR. It provides the camera with sufficient lighting but gives natural darkness which can help in suspects' arrest.

The Benefits of Day/Night Cameras

Day/Night security cameras provide the exceptional advantages of both color and black and white CCTV camera setups. D/N video security cameras operate the same color cameras during daytime and automatically switch in B...W mode during the night with the use of removable IR cut filter. When the darkness comes, day/night cameras sense the lower light levels and automatically take away the IR cut filter, instantly changing to a more responsive black and white mode.

Day/night surveillance cameras are offered in all forms to get the satisfaction needed in every establishment or home.Effective undercover operations gadgets like dome cameras, fixed cameras, bullet cameras and even in tiny board cameras are presented in many D/N technology forms. Those mentioned gadgets are very helpful since secret operations sometimes happen in diverse lighting circumstances. Numerous day/night CCTV cameras also present built in infrared illumination, which makes an excellent turn-key camera package.

The traditional and most effective D/N security cameras are often referred to as true day/night cameras, and use a removable mechanical cut filter, as described above. However, digital day/night cameras (or electronic day/night cameras) are also available, which electronically adjust colors during the day, instead of using an infrared filter. This allows the digital day/night cameras to deliver similar benefits of true day/night cameras, but at a lower cost. Without the need for a physical filter, digital day/night technology can also be leveraged for smaller form factors, such as bullet cameras.

Regardless of the type of day/night camera you choose, I recommend considering the following areas to ensure you get the very best solution for your application:

1. Lux ratings - Unlike conventional cameras, day/night cameras normally have two lux ratings .The first one is for the camera's color mode, and the other one is for black and white mode. Considering both will let you compare between day/night and more familiar customary CCTV cameras.

2. Lenses - Be sure to get a CCTV camera lens that is rated for use with infrared light when buying a fixed security day/night camera that needs a C- or CS-mount lens. IR ready camera lenses allocate for the proper passage of IR light, the maximum utilization of the camera's day/night capabilities, and especially lower light performance.

3. S/N Ratio - There are many surveillance cameras in the market place with low lux ratings, but this does not always mean they will produce a good picture in low light. To ensure you get both, select a security camera with a signal-to-noise ratio of 48dB or higher

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Saturday, November 7, 2009

CS-Mount Camera Selection Advice

By Holly Germain

The original security camera was a c-mount security cameras, and they were first introduced in the 1970's. Perhaps it was the fact that fashion was not at its high that these boxy, bulky security cameras look the way that they do, but it had more to do with the technological limitations of the time. As camera technology was in its infancy, chips sets and circuit boards were much bigger than today, which rather restricted security cameras to the c-mount security camera construction. For many years, c-mount security cameras design defined the security camera industry, but now the most common shape that most people think of when mentioning a security camera is the bullet security camera.

The c-mount security cameras bulky mold is still its largest advantage, as this enables c-mount cameras to use the newest technology first, before it has been perfected to be small enough to be used in other surveillance camera styles. Right now, smaller surveillance cameras such as bullet or dome security cameras are able to support 1/3 and 1/4 inch chip sets but cannot use 1/2 inch chip sets because the technology has not advanced to the point of being miniaturized. This means that c-mount surveillance cameras, because of supporting a larger chip set that can have greater number of pixels, have the best resolution of any surveillance camera. In addition to better resolution, larger chip sets also enable the camera to pick up more light in poor lighting conditions, effectively making the surveillance camera be able to pick up color video in darker conditions.

C-mount cameras are ready out of the box to be used indoors, but to be used outside they must be mounted in protective housings and with more secure brackets, as they are not well-shielded from the elements. Because of their superior video quality, large businesses and government offices use the majority of cs-mount surveillance cameras.

Infrared cameras excel at seeing in complete darkness, and many other cameras see well in the daytime, but cs-mount security cameras are some of the only surveillance cameras that work especially well in the space between no light and daytime. This ability to record in twilight conditions is measured by a camera's lux rating. Lux is the measurement of the amount of light falling on an area. Lower lux ratings means that the security camera can see in lower levels of light but generally increases the cost of the camera.

One of the things to keep in mind when looking at buying a c-mount camera is the fact that they are one of the only cameras that do not come with a lens. CS-mount surveillance cameras are significantly more interchangeable than other surveillance cameras, but their price can be higher as all their parts are customizable. This results in an initially more expressive, but less expensive in the long run camera.

CS-mount security cameras, like most models of surveillance cameras, do face a drawback: cs-mount surveillance cameras require considerable effort to be used outdoors. CS-mount cameras are more sensitive than, for example, bullet surveillance cameras, and considerable damage can be done to them by rain, wind, heat, or cold. If you require a c-mount surveillance camera outdoors, you will need to purchase a housing and a mounting bracket. Some housings simply protect from water and projectiles, whereas other are equipped with heaters and blowers to keep the temperature constant. Mounting brackets, just as they sound, enable cs-mount security cameras to be installed on outside walls.

Besides being able to employ the newest technological advances before other camera styles, the shape of cs-mount surveillance cameras also have another advantage. They are blatantly obvious. Many banks and large businesses employ cs-mount security cameras simply because they send the obvious message that would be assailants are being watched.

In conclusion, cs-mount security cameras have the highest resolution of any surveillance camera, but lack the constitution to be used outdoors without shielding from the environment. They make excellent interior surveillance cameras, but should only be attempted outdoors if the security application requires color video in poor light, or if the higher resolution pictures outweigh the complexity of protecting their environment. Lastly, if you want to send the message "you are being recorded" there is no better surveillance camera that c-mount cameras.

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Selecting The Most Effective Video Security System

By Dominique Engelbach

For a video security system to be effective, it should be able to avert potential criminals and burglars. It should protect your house when nobody is home, let you stay updated to happenings and events, and if something goes wrong, it should provide concrete evidence for clear investigation. With all this capabilities, video surveillance systems must be easy to install and user friendly. Having such equipment for security measure should imply strong fortification and solid defense.

Some people who purchase a video surveillance system are unlucky enough to have bought sub par products because they were fooled by a consultant, dealer or some website. And as expected, they end up regretting what they had purchased. To prevent this, here are some useful guidelines you can use in selecting the right video security camera system for your home or office. It includes very important considerations that can assist in the selection process.

Proper Security Camera Positioning

"What is the right quantity of surveillance cameras do I need to purchase?" This is the question most consumers ask when buying video camera systems. In answering this question, it does not matter how many or few the security cameras you have but the ability to identify and recognize every individual who is entering in your premises. It should also have to capture high quality videos to be able to properly archive their activities and behavior for evidence and other legal purposes.

1. Identify the suspect - If you have limited funds, then I highly recommend that your surveillance system is able to clearly identify people as they come and go. Odds are that if something happens at your home or business that is noteworthy, you'll know about it. And the only question you need to answers is: "Who did it?" If you know who is coming and going, figuring out "who" is in most cases very simple.

Providing customer safety is a business priority. After all, it is by this means that they are able to secure great transactions. By taking care of your visitors' lives and interests, you'll be able to establish good relationships with them. This will consequently result to better business dynamics. Now it will help the protection process if you can identify and prevent any incoming danger. By installing video security cameras in your store, you will not only be aware of what's going on, you will also be able to take control of unexpected situations. With a camera, you can identify who goes in and out of your shop and what goes on in and outside of the premises. It's best to apply cameras in areas of your store or private property that is prone to crimes, such as doors, windows, gates, parking lot entrances etc.

I would also recommend that you think like a criminal for just a minute... If you were a burglar, how would you enter your home or property? Would your approach be different during the day than at night? What areas on the property are least visible to your neighbors? The results of this exercise will confirm the number of video security cameras you need to rest easy and will likely surprise you.

2. Document activity - For a business, having sufficient video surveillance cameras in place to provide an overview of activity is usually not an option. There are simply too many instances that call for documentation of what happened. An easy case in point is shoplifting... By law in most states, a suspect must be observed actually concealing an item and leaving the threshold of the building before the activity is considered a crime. Additionally, and many times more importantly, documentation of activity in your home or place of business will help to protect you from prosecution for "Slip and Fall", and other litigious activities that may occur on your property.

At a residence, using surveillance cameras which view a wide area often provide some very valuable clues beyond identification, such as the direction of travel, a vehicle description, identifying accomplices and neighbors that may have witnessed the crime. In many cases, you can gain many of these important details with as few as four surveillance cameras located around your house.

Safety is another popular reason to have security cameras providing overviews of your property. It's quite a comfort to be able to watch children at play in the pool, trampoline or yard knowing they are safe and having fun at the same time.

3. An accurate sketch can be created - sketch the location to familiarize some possible ways to capture the future crimes. It is useful in determining field of views for your security cameras, ensuring the full coverage.

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Friday, November 6, 2009

Utilizing a Digital Video Recorder Along With Security Cameras To Lessen Crimes Incidence

By Domingo Bowdon

Dvr Security or popularly known as digital video recording is very useful nowadays. Either in business and home use, video surveillance and recording has become a requirement. The question is no longer on the importance but on choosing the more suitable security camera and recording device for the consumer. In the residential homes, the security surveillance system requirement may not as big as of those in big companies .Make a thorough internet research about these devices so that you'll have enough knowledge to help you decide in choosing the right security camera system you need.

Digital video recorders record video in a digital format to a hard disk drive or other memory medium for your later analysis and storage. A few of some of the top devices include the Humax DRT800, Motorola DCT6412, Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8300HD, Dish Network VIP722 DVR, and the Hughes HR20-700 Direct Tv dvr. There are of course many more and a simple search for any of these names or a general search for a digital video recorder will turn up many comparable choices.

Acquiring a suitable digital video recorder system is only the start to get the total security that you want for your belongings. The main concern in this endeavor would be your preferred security camera. There are many types of video surveillance camera. Some of these types are home surveillance, covert surveillance cameras, night vision, wired ... wireless, and sometimes phony security cameras.

The digital video recorder system needs to have security camera for it to be complete. A video surveillance camera involves different types such as the Covert Surveillance Cameras, Home Surveillance, Nigh Vision, Wired ... Wireless, and even Fake Security Cameras are available.Fake cameras are really useful for those who are low on budget and greatly needs some protection. With a simple search about these cameras will help you protect your property temporarily until you get the real one.

The one that stands out of the rest is the Covert surveillance cameras where you can truly gain full insight to what happens within the proximity of your home and business. This is also the best way to keep track of you staff discretely. It may also be helpful to post a notice that there are hidden cameras planted on your vicinity to counter unproductive and unwanted activities.Of course, there are those who are against security cameras saying that video surveillance devices do not necessarily prevent crime. There is even an article posted at www.youarebeingwatched.us written by Noam Biale, the Advocacy Coordinator for ACLU Technology and Liberty Program, stating that video surveillance does not affect the crimes incidents statistics significantly.

The criminal element in many cases today tries to craft ways to get around the technology of camera security rather than ceasing their covert workings. News reports show many holdups and such recorded on cam that reveals the criminal wearing a peek hat to cover the main features of his face. Other seasoned criminals have been documented as walking close to the security camera so as not to be recorded by the business or home digital video recording security system.

It's really up to you. But if you really trust digital video recorders you can get it and the good news is these systems comes in cheap .Many ways could be improved with the use of your own PC to achieve a low expense home or business security. A computer with a fast processor and a large hard drive and it's good to go. It's advisable to have big hard drive but it depends on your budget. You can find many security cameras in electronic stores starting at low prices. If you want an effective and cheap personal camera security system, you can configure a camera and appropriate camera recording software.

If you want to know more, the internet is always open for users who want to know. By doing so, you can now discover the best prices and the best option s to whichever security system you want.

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Usefulness of the Smallest Digital Camera

By Thomas Glover

Which model is actually the smallest digital camera? That is not a simple question to answer. Digital cameras are slowly getting smaller with each new model, some of which are down to sizes that would have seemed completely impossible 10 years ago. Your next question might be "Are tiny digital cameras as useful as normal sized models?" The answer to that question is a sound yes. Models that are about the same size as your forefinger and that can fit right into the palm of your hand are as viable as standard sized camera models.

Though small models of today's digital cameras are not as viable for professional photography, they are just as good for your standard pictures as their bigger camera alternatives. It is the norm for all digital cameras to come with focus, zoom, flash and zoom. But best part is that they are not as expensive as bigger models. But there is good reason for that.

A large amount of of the smallest digital cameras do not have a lot of built-in space to keep photos, and due to the fact that they are that tiny, you will most likely have to purchase a Micro SD card. These are getting more inexpensive by the month it seems like, so this is not a huge problem. What is a problem is that many miniature digital cameras do not have a built-in screen for you to see the photos that you have taken. This has become a common feature for any normal-sized models so it may be hard to get used to. Not being able to check to see if a picture is perfect can result in some bad photographs.

Additionally, some units also do not have the ability to record movies, which is another familiar feature that has become common in digital cameras. This is one factor that really convinces people not to purchase some of the smallest digital camera, but if you are not worried about with taking videos then it should be not be a big set back.

In actuality, these types of cameras are almost a novelty. They are very cute, and it is a surprise that something that is so small can effectively take high quality pictures. However, they tend to get misplaced easily and some of the discount variations on retailer's shelves can cease to work if dropped a couple of times. They are to be handled with great care. Losing all of the pictures you have kept on a digital camera can be frustrating, if not extremely upsetting.

All in all, the smallest digital camera is certainly an inexpensive alternative your standard-sized, multifunctional camera model. These are fantastic if you are looking for a camera to have to take traveling or to give to a friend or family member. So they are nifty items, but if you are truly serious about photography then it is probably be better to look for a different type.

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The Advantages of Having Day and Night Cameras For Your Video Camera Surveillance Needs

By Dan Musse

A Short Summary

Either black and white or colored CCTV security cameras both have their distinctive advantages for your video camera surveillance requirements. Color security cameras have very evident advantage of giving excellent color feature. It has the capacity to capture the color details of a criminal's skin tone, clothing, or vehicle. This is actually very advantageous in solving the crime and prevent the criminals to break lose. As image is produced, IR cut filter is positioned over the imager In order for color security cameras to accurately create colors. The cut filter permits the camera to only see light in the visible spectrum (400nm to 750nm). As a result, color surveillance cameras fails when it comes to creating important images in not so lighted scenes.

On the contrary, black and white video camera surveillance setups don't have an IR cut filter because they are intended to interpret color. Without the filter, B...W CCTV camera options can utilize other light frequencies like infrared. Infrared which come from a numerous sources, including the sun, fluorescent lights, incandescent lights and especially infrared illuminators. Consequently ,B...W surveillance cameras operates notably better in low light and some can see at light levels 0.0001 lux which is almost complete darkness. Other advantage of B...W video surveillance cameras is the ability to illuminate an area with IR. It provides the camera with sufficient lighting but gives natural darkness which can help in suspects' arrest.

The Advantages of Day/Night Cameras

Day/Night security cameras provide the exceptional advantages of both color and black and white CCTV camera setups. D/N video security cameras operate the same color cameras during daytime and automatically switch in B...W mode during the night with the use of removable IR cut filter. When the darkness comes, day/night cameras sense the lower light levels and automatically take away the IR cut filter, instantly changing to a more responsive black and white mode.

Day/night surveillance cameras are offered in all forms to get the satisfaction needed in every establishment or home.Effective undercover operations gadgets like dome cameras, fixed cameras, bullet cameras and even in tiny board cameras are presented in many D/N technology forms. Those mentioned gadgets are very helpful since secret operations sometimes happen in diverse lighting circumstances. Numerous day/night CCTV cameras also present built in infrared illumination, which makes an excellent turn-key camera package.

D/N security cameras are frequently referred to as the true day/night cameras and and the most effective tool. On the other hand, digital day/night cameras (or electronic day/night cameras) also exist, which electronically regulate colors during the day, as a substitute of with an infrared filter. This gives the digital day/night cameras to send comparable benefits of true day/night cameras, although at a lower cost. Because of the innovation, without the filter, digital day/night technology can be adopted to be used in smaller and more modern gadgets, such as bullet cameras.

Whatever type of day/night camera you pick, It is suggested to take into account of the following points to make sure you get the greatest answer for your security needs:

1. Lux ratings - Unlike traditional cameras, day/night cameras typically have two lux ratings - one for the camera's color mode, and one for its black and white mode. Understanding both will allow you to draw a true comparison between day/night and more familiar traditional CCTV cameras.

2. Lenses - If you are buying a fixed security day/night camera that requires a C- or CS-mount lens, be sure to get a CCTV camera lens that is rated for use with infrared light. IR ready camera lenses allow for the proper passage of IR light, the full use of the camera's day/night capabilities, and of course, lower light performance.

3. S/N Ratio - Choose a security camera with a signal-to-noise ratio of 48dB or higher. Lots of surveillance cameras in the open market with low lux ratings, however this does not assure it will produce a quality picture in low light.

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Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Hints & Tips For Buying A Digital Camera

By Steve Gargin

The main reason that people want to buy a digital camera is for convenience rather than using a traditional film camera and there are a lot of best buy digital camera deals available.It is important to check on the various functions and accessories before you compare prices to ensure that you find the best buy digital camera. The best buy digital camera is not necessarily the cheapest, but the one that has the best overall package for your needs.

There are very few genuine considered to be best buy digital camera packages with high-resolution and the specified resolution may only apply to software interpolation rather than the true optical resolution. To print photographs on a good (at least 720 dots per inch) color printer you will need to look for the best buy digital camera with a high resolution. The first point is to find the best buy digital camera with the highest resolution you can afford which will normally be at least 2 to 3 megapixels (2 million to 3 million pixels). If you will only output pictures to a computer monitor (for viewing, Web page use or e-mail) then the best buy digital camera will be one with a 640-by 480 pixel resolution and it will provide very satisfactory results.

You should also look for the best buy digital camera packages with the most RAM that you can afford. The more RAM the camera has means that it can store more pictures and does not require downloading or erasing them as often. Many retailers advertise their best buy digital camera as one with a plastic lens. It is better to buy a digital camera with a 100% glass lens for the best pictures.

When you are Checking out the best buy digital camera offers you need to compare optical, as to digital, zoom capabilities of the Camera. This is one of the most used features of most digital cameras and you need to be sure that you have the capability to take the type of close-up shots that you want to.

A lot of unscrupulous retailers will advertise a price for a best buy digital camera but then charge high shipping costs.Finally, ensure that you have accounted for any shipping costs before you make your final decision over which best buy digital camera you purchase.

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Monday, November 2, 2009

The Importance of Hidden Video Camera Video Device In Your Home Safety

By Jamie Snowdon

One of the finest secret detective's tools you crave to have is a hidden video camera. Almost everywhere, there is danger. Can you still monitor your homes even they are you are not there? This is something you should be concern with. Criminality does not choose whoever and wherever you are.

Recent FBI statistics reveals that every quarter of a minute robberies or crime incidents happens. Big portion of these cases happens when nobody is around the house. Such incident could lead to the loss of things that you have earned for and anyone doesn't want this to happen. In this case, added security is needed because crime rates are higher than before.

Videos cameras set up in your home will let you supervise your inside and outside valuable possessions. If crime incidents happen within your home, security cameras will help you catch the culprits because the recorded video will be significant evidence.

What if you have to monitor the housekeeper? You may have an uneasy feeling about this person because some of your stuff inside your home has turned up missing. You can check to see what your pets are doing and are they safe when you are not there. The above situations are just a few of the scenarios you could be face with.

Do you trust somebody to watch your home or do you have a housekeeper? How much do you trust her? Is something in your home suddenly missing? You can answer these questions once you put security cameras in your home and see the thing that happens when you are not around.

You can track those people that enter and leave in your home. Having spy camera in each side of the house can provide security and peace of mind. How good would it be to have a something that is watching over your valuable house? You'll surely like this gadget.

If you have already decided that you need a hidden video camera for your home, checking at a well-recognized security camera store like Supercircuits.com is a good idea. Supercircuits.com is awarded 7-time Guinness World Record for the worlds' smallest video camera. Respected news organization like ABC, CBS and NBC uses Supercircuits cameras in their undercover reporting .It's very obvious they are using the companies' products because it's the best in the market. They have wide choices of videos cameras available. Their varied tiny cameras designs that can be put in different places and things like in furniture's like cabinets, wall frames and in appliances edges, ball pens . These small devices produce vivid vision and high quality pictures and the battery can also be controlled.

Furthermore, if you want to have your own design, you can request for your own customized camera, which respond to your needs. These guys are professionals and they have been doing these jobs for almost 20 years. They have the finest quality in terms of service and full satisfaction of their products. They also have the excellent live support.

Putting hidden video camera in your home will look after your loved ones. If you really care for your family, you should have a home security system. These tool will help you supervise your home .Having these gadgets will let you caught the culprit in action. Get the finest in the modern surveillance cameras for your residence at http://www.supercircuits.com . This is the best spy in your home that you'll love.

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