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Showing posts with label digital camera. Show all posts
Showing posts with label digital camera. Show all posts

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

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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Saturday, October 17, 2009

What Video Surveillance Camera Systems Are Most Effective?

By Herschel Kersten

No matter where a person lives, they could have use for a surveillance camera. The benefits of having one camera, or several are numerous. This article will outline the benefits of both traditional and digital video surveillance systems. It will also cover your options of types of cameras, and touch upon a few brands so that you might have some basis for comparison. By the time you reach the end of this report, you will find yourself knowledgeable and savvy to the ways of these devices that can keep what you care about safe.

Since there are many types of video surveillance systems, this article will give emphasis on Closed circuit television (CCTV), and the above mentioned digital surveillance camera .If you are setting up surveillance camera, it should be attached to any a computer or a network so that you or the staff in charge can see what's going on. Early security cameras are big and full of hassle and provide low quality images.

In recent times with the aid of IBM and other Info Tech companies, surveillance camera is upgraded and highly modernized. A camera may be programmed to do an assigned task. Just like for example, a camera programmed to sound an alarm once it sees movement .The performance of the system actually depends on the type of security program and price of the security camera.

Video Content Analysis (VCA) is another effective surveillance system .It can determine colors of items like shirts and automobiles. VCA protocol can be programmed to make certain commands depending on the users needs. It can capture people doing there activities at a certain time, this can be an important factor in solving criminality.

Digital surveillance products today is upgrading and far more advanced .The good thing is that, it is now available in the market for consumer use. With the use of internet cameras you can now monitor your place in any location with internet connection. Even through a cell phone, remote viewing can also be done.

The quality of pictures produced by digital cameras is much better than the older video format cameras. You can edit and modify the settings to accurately get the picture quality you like. Plus, you can connect it to a computer for processing and editing allow for more detailed analysis of the video or picture taken.

With this technology, it is now easy to enhance video and image for camera owners to get the desired picture they want. To be able to get the best camera you have to invest to it. Outdoor security cameras are weatherproofed and more durable to outside elements. However, it is limited on range of motion and range. A digital surveillance camera has both of these qualities but on a higher price. It's always a good idea to compare needs and requirements to find out the best camera for you.

You can deploy these systems in your home with simple connections to your personal computer or to your business with multiple networks and several cameras. The most likely locations are the backyard, garage or front lawn. You can utilize them depending on how effective you want it to be. Maybe putting up a storage room where all the cameras are networked and also serve as your monitor room might be great. There is no limit to the potential of video surveillance systems. Just be creative.

As last advice, the excellent thing to consider is making up your mind and think of reasons why you want surveillance camera. Research and study the best camera system and its combination right for you that are suited for your needs.

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Thursday, October 15, 2009

Understanding Digital Zoom And Buying A Camera

By Andrew Kelly

When the first cameras appeared they were large bulky items available only to the few who could afford them and understand the science of photography. To take a simple photograph you needed to understand both the mechanics of the gadget, some mathematics and a sound understanding of chemistry. Over the years the camera was developed into something which could be more accessible to ordinary folk. Eventually cameras became tiny little boxes which even children could operate but using film meant that once the photo had been taken it was necessary to have the film developed by a photo lab before we could see the results. These days we have the digital camera and there is no longer the need to send off film and most folk don't even print our their photo's but are they easy to understand?

As soon as you look to buying a digital camera you begin to realize how difficult it can be to make a decision. There are more companies producing cameras now than there has ever been. Well known manufacturers such as Canon and Nikon are still around but the infinite number of smaller companies appearing all the time just make the matter worse. These small firms often release fantastic bargains but it is often very difficult to understand if the digital camera deal before you is actually a bargain or not.

Before you purchase a digital camera there are a small number of things you must become familiar with. You may know of the megapixel but do you know what interpolation is? You must understand this to a degree as a camera which interpolates an image will not be as good as another with the same number of megapixels. The digital process takes an image of, say 6mp and increases it to become the same as one take with, say, a 12mp camera.

Zoom is further word which can lead to confusion. If you want to bag yourself a digital camera bargain you will need to understand the differences between optical zoom and digital zoom.

Digital zoom is often the most commonly quoted number on digital camera packaging. Unfortunately it is not as great as it sounds as it actually degrades the image. It does this by taking your image, cropping it (cutting it down to the zoom area) and then enlarging it. Therefore the greater the amount of digital zoom the more blocky the image will be.

On the other hand, optical zoom, is something of importance. Optical zoom does not have an effect on the quality of your photo. Therefore you can zoom in and your image will still be as good quality as before. The greater the optical zoom the better the camera. However not all optical zoom is equal as the quality of the lens can vary between cameras.

The lens used in a camera can make a huge difference and a photograph taken using a camera with a $3,000 lens will be far superior to one taken using a camera that cost a hundredth of this. For a high quality lens expect to pay a premium price.

What will you be using your camera for? This is important because if most of your photos will be of friends and general snaps you will not need to spend a small fortune on a DSLR camera with a large mm lens with a large optical zoom. In such cases a compact digital camera would be the best buy.

The world of the DSLR camera is huge, far too complicated to cover here in one article. Many people are buying them for home use now but they are usually only used by professional photographers.

Personally I use a professional Canon DSLR and a superb Canon PowerShot A480 for quick snaps. I think the A480 is fantastic for the price and suitable for all manner of photography. It only has a 3.3x optical zoom but this is ok for most situations. When comparing cameras look at the specifications carefully and always read reviews before making your final decision.

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Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Use the Rule of the Third Correctly

By Morten Elm

It might seem a little bit complicated. But actually the Rule of the Third (also named the Golden Section) is pretty simple to use, if you just know how to divide a square into nine equal parts.

Try to turn on your TV. Look for the newsreader at one of the news channels. Is he sitting in the middle of the picture? No, he is placed according to the Rule of the Third in either the left or the right third.

Since the earliest days (long before the photograph) painters found out, that if you place the main subject either about one third or two thirds from the top and/or from the left side, the painting will be more balanced.

To be absolutely correct the right place to put the main subject is not exactly one third (or two third) from the border. There is a complicated mathematically rule that describes the exact place. But it is so close to one third that is fine enough for practically use. So as long as you are not showing your pictures to a mathematician, you will be fine.

So try to place your main subject in the third parts, when you are photographing. It can be either horizontal or vertically; or it can be both.

This is especially important when you are photographing subject that includes the horizon. A typical mistake is to place it in the middle of the picture, but the only thing that does, is to divide the photo in two; and that is not normally what you want.

So what is the most interesting part; the above the horizon or the one below? Is the sky full of beautiful clouds or is it gray and boring? Place the most interesting part of the subject according to the Rule of the Third.

On some cameras the subject has to be in the middle to make it sharp. In this case you shall just place the subject in the middle of the frame, press the releaser half down and then turn the camera so it points to the subject. Then press the releaser completely down.

Like all other photographic rules it is okay to break the Rule of the Thirds; as long as you do it on purpose and knows what you are doing.

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Sunday, October 11, 2009

How To Get Superior Pictures Using Camera's Flash?

By Meera Watts

Photography is becoming very popular nowadays due to the glamor involved in this industry. A large number of people are choosing to work as professional photographers. These proficient photographers use different digital cameras for taking extraordinary immobile pictures for entertaining or saleable purposes. The part-time photographers as well take pictures on diverse festive occasions just to keep their reminiscences alive. The job of a professional photographer is not easy by any means.

Now, in this article we would read about certain important things that could certainly help you take good quality pictures with the help of your camera's flash. A flash is a trouble-free device that is used for producing an instant run of non-natural light. It simply helps in illuminating a motionless picture. This type of equipment is fixed up inside the camera itself. This makes it simple to take good still pictures. A flash could certainly assist you take enhanced pictures.

It is of utmost importance for you to adjust the settings of your camera's flash according to the needs. A good camera flash helps you take snaps and pictures in the places where the natural light is not sufficient. Are you one of them who are looking for some cool tips and ways to click better pictures using a camera's flash? If yes, then given below are some of the finest tips for your help:

1. Make certain that when you are taking pictures on a bright day you regulate the flash to the forced-flashed alternative. It would positively avoid the damaging effects of the dazzling sunlight on your image.

2. When you are clicking pictures from a small distance you need to switch on the alternative point-and-shoot flash. You also need to bring down your camera's flash control a bit. If your camera doesn't come with such an alternative then you could keep a little butter paper in front of your cameras flash in order to fetch down its effect.

3. If you are making use of a peripheral flash then you could stimulate certain lightning effects by turning the flash towards the wall or ceiling.

4. To take a snap of a subject that comes with a setting or background then you need to select the slow-sync flash option in your camera. This would present definite ambient light to the background and make it appear good along with the foreground.

You could also make your pictures look good by experimenting with your camera's flash and settings. If you pursue all these steps and ways then you would surely be able to take brilliant motionless pictures. This article could really help you a lot.

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Sunday, October 4, 2009

Keep Your Memory With A Waterproof Camera

By Amanda Li

Many people like playing water-sports, like surfing, snorkeling, swimming etc, and you will feel disappointing when you found no chance to have a snapshot. People always want to capture these precious moments, therefore, a waterproof camera can be a solution. Waterproof camera brings you to the undersea world and take as many photos as you can.

A wide variety of waterproof cameras with different styles, sizes and shapes can be found in the market. For example, you can buy a camera with a zoom lens or one with a wide lens that enables you to capture the outlook of the undersea world. Or you can choose between digital cameras and disposable cameras that can only be used once.

If you want high quality underwater photos, you can buy a professional diving camera. Basically, a diving camera which can work at least 40 meters under the water is effective already. This kind of camera somehow is expensive, but it can be long-lasting if you take care of it well.

It is necessary to buy a protective cover for your waterproof camera or diving camera. These covers are made from plastic or vinyl, which protect your cameras from any accidents, damages or the effects of salt water.

There are a variety of cameras available for sale on the Internet. The average price for a waterproof camera is around $200. If you want to upgrade the functions of your camera, there are a lot of accessories that are available as well.

After you bought your camera, you must take good cares of it! Otherwise, you can get the best use of it. First, rinse the camera with fresh water immediately when you come out of the water. This can prevent salt water affecting the camera, as well as dissolve the salt crystals.

If your camera is not a digital one and uses films, check if your camera is dried completely before you take out your films as you surely do not want your films to get wet. Also check if there are dirt, sands or any other things in the O rings.

It is easy and cheap to get a waterproof camera. However, a camera can also be damaged easily. If you want your camera to function well, ask a professional to check it for maintenance occasionally. With an effective camera, you can capture your precious moments in the undersea world and share your happy memories with your family and friends.

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Monday, September 28, 2009

Digital Photography - How To Learn Photography

By Carol Bell

Have you seen an attractive digital image and wanted to find out how to provide similar results? Perhaps you are simply bored with your conventional camera and are prepared to make the jump into the digital age by buying your first digicam. No matter what your reason, it's not tough to learn digital photography and the way to employ an electronic camera. The options applying to on-line courses, authorization programs, university classes, and one on one instructions are basically endless!

There are so many different locations where you can learn digital photography. Most local colleges, especially the art institutes, offer both one-time courses and degree programs. Online colleges usually offer these options as well. Some colleges even offer professional certification programs. These options are best for the more serious students.

If the will to learn digital photography is related to a hobby vs a vocation option, you might consider other options. For example, many public college systems and county bodies offer short, 8 week long courses pertaining to a wide selection of topics including digital photography. You may also find tips, strategies, and instructions in books and even on the internet! The Net provides a plethora of resources,e.g. free on-line help files.

You can establish the learning methodology that's best for you by asking of yourself what your goals are. Are you targeting to get to the pro level, or do you simply wish to learn digital photography so you can use your digicam during family and community events? If you'd like to become a pro snapper, your best chance could be to gain documentation in a web course, or earn your degree at a local university. However, if you need to gain understanding of basic abilities when you learn digital photography, you may consider an one off tutorial or a self teaching book.

You must also consider what your availability is, and what proportion of your time you are ready to give to learn digital photography. If you are ready to devote lots of time to the topic, you've got more options open to you. If your schedule is less flexible, then you'll be at the beck and call of course schedules and available time slots.

If you are dedicated to learning digital photography, then there's no reason why one of these options would not work for you. All you have to do to learn digital photography is identify your purpose and availability, and then you're prepared to head off to the pinnacle of the class!

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Monday, September 21, 2009

Top 3 Best Underwater Camera: Review

By Patrik G. Moore

Cameras had reached new horizons and the depth in the field of photography. It has evolved tremendously catering to consumer demands and desires. As of today, the cameras not only take photos but also videos with varying depth, resolution and image size. To our great surprise, there are already underwater cameras that are perfect for water memories. This has completely revolutionized the technology and by far extends its usual limitations.

Since the initial launch of a company to publicize its own underwater camera, camera giants and several colleagues made their own brands as well. For each year, countless underwater cameras have been added, changed or improved making a new mark for each. In fact, if you do a Google search for a specific camera, including the waterproof ones, it will issue over a million hits and hundreds of brands. With this, it occurred to me to give you an initial resolution to solve consumer dilemma and make your choosing much easier. Let me give you the top three underwater cameras and what they can do and what they have.

First on our list would be the SeaLife DC1000. This brand has carved its niche in underwater photography and since then has been setting high standards specifically dedicated to water-based gadgets. Its magic in this latest installment of their wide array of camera is generating vibrant colors irregardless of water origin. Some specifications of this camera includes its sharp 10-megapixel, high-resolution images, a large 2.7"LCD screen, up to 200 feet deep, optical and 5X digital zoom, 4 UW color correction settings perfect for shallow and deep waters, the automatic mode for easy exposure settings, snorkel mode, user-friendly buttons and options coupled with land and sea modes. You can even buy additional accessories to enhance your photography experience.

The second underwater camera that I would suggest for camera enthusiasts would be the Canon Powershot D10. This is the first waterproof camera under the said brand giant. This contains 12.1-megapixel and can cater up to 10 meters of water depth. In addition, this is even shockproof and freeze proof catering up to -10oC. It allows up to 3X optical zoom, smart auto mode with scene detection, image stabiliser, motion and face detection with self timer and auto red-eye correction. Furthermore, it allows a range of shooting and special underwater scene modes.

Third on our list and probably not the least is the Olympus Stylus TOUGH-8000. This is 12-megapixel underwater camera with 3.6X wide zoom lenses. The lens start at 28mm and ends at 102mm. This camera line is shockproof up to 2m, waterproof till 10m, crushproof at 100kg and freeze proof up to -10 oC. Other wonderful technicalities included are its TAP control menu for convenience, face detection, intelligent auto mode that adjusts settings, focus and exposure instantly, easy checking of air and water pressure that can be readily seen on its screen, LED illuminator for underwater lighting purposes and some macro sceneries and even movie and sound recording.

These underwater cameras are the best there is in the market, according to its specifications and image quality. So if you happened to be looking at a probable underwater camera, then it would be best to consult on these cameras first in your local stores and that I'm sure they can do what you want fitting your budget too. So have fun in the water with these exciting underwater cameras and it will surely change your photography experience.

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Friday, September 18, 2009

Digital Camera Binoculars Best Of Both Worlds

By Riz Goodman

The big burden of carrying all the things on a hunting expedition can be a pain and that is why it is better to have a few things combined. One such thing is the digital camera binoculars. These are the binoculars as well as the digital camera combined. This helps as you can easily click a picture of the object that you are about to hunt. In fact another major thing that is going to happen here is the fact that you have that special video camera feature built in for instant replay which helps in capturing the video footage easily.

There are a couple of things that you should know when you are selecting the binoculars with an in built digital camera. The first and foremost thing that you should be worried about is the resolution. Now be aware that this resolution will be different than the resolution of the binoculars. Always go for more 1 mega pixel resolution. Also check if the binoculars have the play back facility of small videos. A lot of binoculars come with the instant replay feature.

The digital cameras generally have a memory which is not capable of storing many pictures and it would be better to have some sort of the external memory and the best thing to do in that case is that to buy external memory. The way to buy external memory is to buy the SD memory card.

The general view is that binoculars with digital cameras are not that worth the price but with recent technological advancements all good manufacturers have come up with a variety of better features and styles.

It is generally a very good practice to go into a nearby binocular retailer shop and check the quality of the binoculars and also check how it adjusts in your hand. These binoculars are very heavy and need a good grip.

Make sure that if you are a photo enthusiast then you should go only with digital camera binoculars.

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Sunday, September 13, 2009

What You Should Know Before Buying a Digital Camera

By Daniel Henderlei

The key technical component of digital photography is the semiconductor. Light is focused onto a semiconductor, creating a digital image. Digital images have let us enter a new paperless age of photography as images can be stored on computers instead of printed.

Talk to those you know who own digital cameras before buying one. Friends and family can offer the best advice, and tell you which brands and models they favor or are disinclined towards. You can make a sound purchase when combining their experience with what you read on the Internet.

For nature lovers who take photos of the great outdoors, a large zoom lens is very helpful. For those of you want to shoot photos of their kids involved in an activity, a fast response time is key, as children move around quickly. For set photos where family and friends are posing, you'll probably want a model that takes pictures in dim light.

For digital cameras, you've got the Point-and-Shoot and the Digital SLR. If you're a novice stick a simple model that's well-rounded - resist the temptation to splurge your money on a super-advanced camera, because you'll be paying for a lot that you'll never use. By the time you learn to use it, you'll probably be wanting another camera with even more cool features.

The Point-and-Shoot camera

Beginners will like the point-and-shoot. It lives up to its name as most settings are automatic, and will adjust itself for you based on the environment and lighting. Customization can still be available as many cameras offer presets for environments like sunny, outdoors, indoors, etc.

Use automatic settings when you want the light sensitivity (ISO) and focal length calculated for you. Read around to find which cameras are best at this.

The Compact is slim, and ranges in size from pocket cameras to ones than fit in a purse. Most compacts have wide-angle and zoom lenses, blur reduction, image stabilization, scene mode pre-sets, and face detection. They can also have LCD displays that are large despite the smallness of the camera.

For distant subjects, check out Optical Zoom cameras. They capture small details, and can crop a scene easily. Optical Zooms have a feature where the camera lens is physically adjusted to improve image quality, with a natural-looking image. Digital Zoom crops the image and then enlarges it to fill the frame - this affects the quality and clarity of the image. Cropping can also be done easily on your PC.

Digital SLR Cameras (Single Lens Reflex)

Digital SLR cameras are for advanced users - those who want to manage and control what the camera does, rather than just point and shoot. SLRs can offer interchangeable lenses, and have a myriad of manual controls. Many settings can still be automatic, but an SLR is best for those who want hands-on control instead of automatic settings.

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Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Digital Camera Lens

By Scott Paul

Canon new lenses are also exceptional. Canon's Digital Rebel was a market success, and the company's new Rebel XT is also hitting good reviews. The previous camera was 6.3 megapixels, the new one is 8.0 and it's a little smaller as well.

While digital SLR cameras are extremely popular among professional photographers, some consumers have shied away from them because they are larger than compact digital cameras and some models can be complicated to the uninitiated user.

Canon fixed everything that needed to be fixed. Except they really dropped the ball on the viewfinder. Canon provides a dust compensation feature in the XTi's free software. You shoot a blank image as a reference. Canon touts its smaller, lighter body as well; it's nearly as small as you can get in a digital SLR.

But while that might appeal to the small handed and nimble, the XT's compressed, lightweight, and slightly chintzy-feeling frame will be a hindrance to others who prefer a solid grip and a balanced camera body--particularly if they're using a lens any heavier than the mediocre 18mm-to-55mm f/3.5-to-f/5.6 unit included in the kit.

Digital cameras must have at least a 4x ( VR ) zoom to be considered a candidate for the best camera. A powerful, clear, auto-focus zoom will help make your pictures look as if they were taken by a cameraman every time. Digital SLR cameras have a live meter reading that can be accessed by looking through the viewfinder at the meter bar on the bottom. Adjust the aperture and shutter speed until the meter bars are at "0.".

Canon is updating their line-up too fast, and this is bad for housing companies. Canon quality and reliability. Excellent value for money, particularly if you can still find a Rebel XT marked down to a close-out price, now that the XSi has come along to replace it. Canon lens 9475A002 can only be mounted on the Digital Rebel and EOS 20D with shorter back focus than ordinary EF lenses.

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Monday, August 17, 2009

What is the Difference between Digital and Film Cameras?

By Marcy Burlock

The world of film making is loaded with choices and decisions. Among those, what script to produce as well as what team to put together are very important. However, another very crucial question that must be answered is whether you wish to use a film camera such as a High 8 or a digital camera that uses a hard drive or an SD memory card.

Whether you choose film or digital, they both provide excellent films. However, when making your choice, there are a few advantages and disadvantages for both. Here are just a few.

Film Camera

As you would suspect, a film camera requires film. The most recognized film camera is the High 8. This cameras film quality is very similar to that of a digital camera. Additional models include the 16mm and the Super 8 which are the old reel to reel cameras invented way before VCR's.

Film cameras offer a richer looking film. However, this form does require the need for processing. While this task usually only takes a day or two, it is very difficult to find a processing center willing to work with a filmmaker on a budget. If you do in fact find one, your reward will be a clear and engaging film.

Camcorders are another option and these use VCR tapes. These tapes are readily available and usually very inexpensive. However, the disadvantages to using a tape camcorder are the fact that you must rewind the tape in order to see what you have shot. If you are not satisfied with the scene, you must either tape over it or use another tape. In addition, these tapes tend to wear down over time which can lead to poor film quality.

You will also have to light your scene well. There are times with film or tape the scene will appear very dark and you can't make out anything. Light the scene so you know what's happening, but that it looks natural.

Digital

Digital cameras are easier to find new, as they are phasing out the old tape camcorders. With the abundance of effects and editing options on a digital camera, you can make a professional looking film much faster than with film or tape.

Digital does have a disadvantage. If you compare a photo taken with an old 35mm camera to one taken with a digital camera, you will see that the digital photo is excessively bright and clear and contains no depth.

While digital cameras are very clear, it is very difficult to get the same shading and lighting unless you are an expert at lighting and editing programs.

Digital cameras allow you to check your shots right away, by simply clicking on the play button or connecting the camera to a computer and watching it. It's much easier to erase too, just click the delete button and it's gone. You don't have to worry about re-using tapes and having them wear out on you.

An additional advantage to a digital camcorder is that it only requires a quick hook up to your computer, uploading of your files and opening your editing program. With a tape camcorder a converter is required in order to connect to your computer.

Adding special effects could not be easier with a digital camcorder. All you have to do is open the files of special effects already loaded on your computer and enter the ones you want to your film.

One disadvantage to digital cameras, they are more expensive. A hard drive camcorder can run you upwards of $400 or a bit more. You can also get one that uses SD and XD memory cards, the same ones your still digital camera uses. These cameras tend to be a bit cheaper, but no less useful than the more expensive ones.

In order to purchase the right camera for you, you must first ask yourself a few simple questions. Are you more comfortable with the old school tape and film cameras? Or, do you want the ease and convenience of digital?

Once you decide, the rest will flow with ease.

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Cheap Underwater Cameras: Are There?

By James Brown

Cameras always bring smiles to us, how much more if these are cheap underwater cameras. It not only brings that certain beam in our faces but also in our pockets. The sea, oceans and other forms of water scenery gives us that sense of peacefulness and comfort. No wonder why these are some common destinations when we simply want to relax, enjoy and unwind. Taking pictures of such is a common tradition by many. But before unfortunately, cameras don't have that water resistant functionality thus limiting our capturing experience. But thanks to technology, underwater cameras are here to deliver us what we need.

Photographers and hobbyists would surely want to have an underwater camera that is produced by camera giants like Olympus, Nikon, Canon, Sea Life and Sea Viewer. Each of these brand names has been developed with their unique cutting edge technology making their cameras last for years. Much more, each of them has unique functionalities that set their cameras apart. On the other hand, although these are durable products, they are quite expensive to begin with.

We, consumers commonly don't venture out in buying cheap brands of underwater cameras. Practically, we want to buy branded items that are highly regarded for their reliability. But we oftentimes, we are stun on how expensive they are. So we asked ourselves can we buy those cameras with the same brand only with lower prices. Is that even possible today?

The fact is, owning an underwater camera is not a far fetched dream. Let me pinpoint some market areas that you can venture out to find the camera that you want without shelling out much.

Direct Manufacturer - is perhaps the best place to get a hold of those underwater cameras and camcorders. These are considered affordable venues for purchase since you are directly buying the gadgets from them. There is no middleman or middle venue to be considered in the first place thus the price of the camera would be the actual retail price. Another advantage of this is its warranty and service since you will be instantly directed to their in house technicians that have the necessary knowledge and skill to solve any camera related concerns.

Internet Gateway - has the biggest probability of buying the cheapest variety of underwater cameras. This is the simplest medium to find a specific camera brand in whatever search engines which will in return give you various hits as to which sites can you probably acquire it. Some camera makers like Canon have their own e-store that provides multitude of sales and online promotions making their products way cheaper than their local resident stores. The only added value you must pay would be the shipping cost if you are geographically far from their point of origin.

Stores buying Second hand gadgets - is the venue where you can find the cheapest deal for any gadgets. Sad to say they only have limited varieties since there are only a few who would like to sell their pre-owned gadgets. Another thing to look up for is possible problems and defects of any acquired devices from these stores. But the biggest advantage of buying your underwater camera here is the cut off price which are commonly ranging from 50% to 75% lower than its retail price.

These are just some suggestions on where you can possibly buy cheap underwater cameras. You actually need not spend more on finding such a wonderful gadget. You only need to be resourceful as to where you can find these shops and sites. So begin the search and who knows you might encounter someone who can offer you these cameras for less.

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Monday, July 27, 2009

Digital Camera Accessories: Select Them Like A Pro

By Sylvia Howard

Capturing a moment is best done with a digital camera in this time and age, but besides the apparatus you also need to know if you need any accessories, and how to choose them. You may be a digital photography fan or just an occasional user, but in both cases you will be able to tell the story of a moment that cannot be brought back.

Digital photography allows you to touch many lives through images of beauty and art which will be able to take and to keep in electronic format. People who are very good at it have started out with this as a hobby but some even managed to turn it into a profession!

Digital camera accessories are also not limited to high-end SLR cameras, as there is a wide set of extras that will help you improve your technique and that will allow you to take better pictures even if you own a humble compact digital camera.

Although the variety of camera accessories is great, some are more exotic and meant mainly for pros. But certain accessories are of great use to everyone. Here are the most common ones:

The first probable investment for your digital camera will probably be the camera bag, which is where you place all the equipment that you need when you are location shooting but also when you are traveling, and it would also serve as your basic case where all your photography equipment is stored and protected. It is also one of the most inexpensive accessories that you may ever buy and add to this is that they enable you carry and protect the expensive equipment that you carry around.

Camera bags are available in several specifications, from the simple hold-all to the specialized compartmented SLR backpack. You can of course carry your camera in any kind of bag, but a padded, purpose-made item is a wise buy.

Of all the digital camera accessories, perhaps the camera tripod of the most useful - it reduces camera shake and therefore the likelihood of a blurred picture, especially in low light conditions, and allows you to take pics from unusual angles. Tripods may seem bulky at first, but bear in mind that a great majority of tripods are either foldable or retractable and should be able to fit in most of the medium size to larger camera bags.

Don't forget to check if your camera screws onto the tripod when acquiring a new one, or you will have to buy another!

The next most useful kind of digital camera accessories are probably those who prolong your picture-taking. Both extra batteries and storage cards fall into these categories. Batteries allow you to take pictures for longer without recharging the camera and are fundamental in faraway locales, while extra storage cards are great for sports photography, when you will need to take a whole lot of pictures.

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Digital Camera Buying Tips

By Scott Morgan

Camera shopping and don't know which one to get? You are not alone as many people often wonder what the best brand of camera is. Best Buy, Walmart, and Target have an electronics isle with hundreds of cameras to choose from, but don't let price determine your decision as there are many other factors to a good digital camera.

Before the digital camera boom, there were only a few camera brands that were successful. Now there are thousands of imported brands that tout cheap prices and great features. The question we have for these new companies is if they have truly passed the test of time.

Although there has been a big digital camera boom, there is still something to be said of the brands that have been around for a while. Even though there are tons of brands, many of them are made with cheap materials to lower the cost. This in turn will lower the quality of lenses and other camera materials.

What makes these brands better than the competition? Canon and Nikon use high quality materials and even just holding one of these brands compared to another cheaper brand is like light and day. Canon and Nikon cameras are often heavier and don't have the "cheap" feel of the other brands. They also are masters at capturing color and shadows as they produce the best camera lenses in the world.

Resolution and color capture should be the biggest things that determine if a camera is high quality or not. Nikon and Canon are masters of this as you can see with picture comparisons of other camera brands.

Although the prices are higher, you will be way more satisfied with a digital SLR camera made by Nikon or Canon. These cameras will last a lot longer without breaking, and will produce the high quality pictures that will last a life time.

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Saturday, July 25, 2009

Lomo Fisheye Camera - Goodbye Digital, Hello Film! Try This Fun Camera For Cool Effects

By Clayton Printemps

One of my favorite cameras is the Lomo Fisheye camera. I've been a huge fan of Lomography for years and this is one of those cameras that really made an impression on me. It's the type of camera that a lot people don't understand, that's for sure. It's made out of plastic and looks like it could break at any moment. Plus, it smells curiously like vanilla when you open it. What type of camera does that?

You Can Get Super Close

If you've never used a Fisheye lens before, you're missing out! It's one of the few camera lenses other than a Macro lens that lets you get super close to whatever you're going to take a picture of. Take advantage of this! If you're out taking pictures of your friends, get in close like you're about to give them a big fat wet kiss. You can't be shy when using this camera if you want the best shots. Plus, The Lomo Fisheye allows you to get close enough to make conversation with whomever you want!

The Camera That WIll Change The Way You Think

Plain old digital cameras take all the fun out of photography. Most people don't go crazy with them to see all the amazing possibilities that photography opens up to them. With the Lomo Fisheye camera, you can make your first step into seeing like the rock star photographers that you love so much. Everything you see in the world will be completely different when put through this lens. Because of the unique way it captures images, you can twist, spin, and do whatever you want with the camera to see what you can produce. Never stop experimenting

Mind Blowing Effects With The Simple Cross Process

Have you ever heard of cross processing? It's one of those awesome techniques photographers use when they want more punch to their photos. Well, you can do the same with a Lomo Fisheye camera too. All you need to do is buy some slide film, take a bunch of photos, and then get the film developed in regular C-41 chemicals. When the pictures come out, you'll be surprised what happens!

I've got a bonus tip for you. When you've finished shooting a roll through your Lomo Fisheye camera, you want to rewind it and then take the film and fun it through another camera. Try the LC-A or one of my all time favorites, the Olympus XA (one of the best cameras you'll ever find!) and see what happens. You'll get double exposures that look like an abstract masterpiece - all from your favorite things!

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Thursday, July 23, 2009

Start Your Own Photography Business

By Dan Feildman

Do you love taking pictures? Are you considering making some money out of it? Starting a business out of photography is relatively easy, as long as you have the right equipment.

If you already own the proper equipment starting your own business will require little money. A photography business is even something you can do from your own home.

You can probably find a small space in your house or a room dedicated for your business. That will serve as your "office" space.

With the advent of digital SLR (single-lens reflex) cameras, you don't even need a dark room to develop the pictures you have taken. All you need is a personal computer with above average specifications and photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop.

There may be additional photography equipment needed if you want to make your hobby your business. You will obviously want your photos to stand out in order to attract clients. A few items you may want to purchase include additional lenses and a variety of filters in order to produce sharp, clear photos as well as some special effects.

Starting with a few of them will do, then just gradually increase them as your business progresses. You don't even have to make this a full time business right away, especially if you don't have a client base yet. Doing this part time would be sufficient enough while in the start up stage.

Even if you only do this on your free time, make sure you are still dedicated and serious. You won't be able to get enough clients to sustain yourself if you don't take this business seriously.

One of the first items you will want to take care of are the legal issues. You will want to decide upon a name and perhaps a logo, for marketing purposes as well as to be able to operate legally. Once you have registered your business with your local tax office you will be able to issue receipts and, of course, file taxes.

Also, it would be good to write a business plan. Having one will help you identify your goal for your business and keep focused with this goal. This way, you will know if the business that you start up is worth all your time and effort.

You will want to sketch out your plans for marketing and ideas for how you can increase business. You can change this business plan in the future, what you write now is not necessarily put in stone. If you are looking for outside funding for your business the business plan is essential.

When planning your business plan be sure to include your business objectives. The objectives are important because they help you stay focused on the goals you have for your business. You also want to include how you plan to market your business, what advertising you intend to do. You will want to include pricing information so be prepared to have all the information planned out. Again, the business plan is something that can be changed over time.

When looking for clients begin with friends and relatives. You may want to offer some services at reduced cost in the beginning, when you are trying to get the word out. Hopefully the quality of your work will speak for itself and word of mouth will bring in more customers.

Soon your schedule will be so busy that you will be able to do this full time. Having a solid business plan, and sticking to it, is the key to success. Word of mouth and a good marketing plan will keep you going for many years. Advertise locally and you will see your business grow by leaps and bounds.

Finding new clients will not be difficult. For most people photographs are treasured memories. You can also tap into the corporate market as they rely heavily on photos to market their products.

Starting a photography business may be easy to do but it should be taken seriously. For anyone who wants to make serious money, dedication is important. You should also be responsible for all your actions. After all, wouldn't it be nice to earn decent income with something you love doing?

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Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Accessories For Your Camera

By Chris Drake

If you own a digital camera, then you know you need to own digital camera accessories. Much like a film camera, the accessories you have for your camera can enhance your pictures. But there are other parts you may not think of as accessories for your digital camera.

You have memory cards, readers, batteries as well as plug in cords, tripods, flash, lenses, and more. And every piece can be vital to your project, no matter how big or small. The more you have, the more you can play with, but that doesnt mean that more is better.

Memory cards are important digital camera accessories. The more memory you have, the more pictures you can take. Or maybe you can have a higher quality picture. A photograph taken with a 10MP resolution will take up more space than one taken in a 5.1 MP resolution.

A bigger card will help you store more pictures. Card readers can help you transfer your pictures from the memory card to your computer, even if you dont have the cords or wires needed to do that. Batteries are vital, as most digital cameras suck the life out of regular batteries, so getting the best batteries for your camera is important.

Then you have digital camera accessories that you may have used with your film camera. Tripods, to hold your camera still, are a very important tool to the professional photographer that specializes in portraits. Different flash bulbs for different situations can make or break the photo.

There are different kinds of lenses, some where you can zoom in on someones nose thats 500 feet away! You also have filters, shades, and other accessories that can come in handy when you try to take a picture at Little Joeys birthday party or while sitting at your local sporting event.

Getting the right digital camera accessories for your camera can differ from person to person. For example, a single man in his mid-30s may be happy with a point and shoot camera with a digital zoom, satisfied with the pictures he gets.

Meanwhile a 22-year old mother of one may live for the flexibility, control, and professionalism the full service digital camera has to offer. Its a matter of picking what you want for your camera, and making that camera an extension of yourself as opposed to having it be a tool that you dont know how to really take advantage of.

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Sunday, July 5, 2009

Digital Photography With Memory Cards

By Sylvia Howard

Digital cameras may not need film like in olden times anymore, but the amount of pictures that you can store is still a fundamental facet. And as most digital cameras have a picture capacity which is less than a single analogue film, you will have to get a storage card as the first accessory equipment.

After having bought the first one, you should consider investing in one or more extra memory cards. These cards are an extremely portable accessory and the price of storage is decreasing quickly, and you will be able to do much more with your digital camera if you have the possibility to take lots of pictures between stops to a PC where you can store your pictures.

If you are about to take a vacation in remote places where you will be unable to transfer the images, and with no shops readily available in the vicinity, you will quickly appreciate the freedom of not having to ration your pictures.

In fact not having to think twice every time that you press the shutter will turn you into a bolder photographer. You will find that several risky pictures and framings give great results, which is why digital camera memory cards will make you a more experienced and ultimately better photographer.

Thanks to memory cards you will be able to use advanced features, such as digital camera settings that automatically take several pictures with different exposures every time that you press the shutter, without worrying about finding yourself without photo storage.

You will generally end up taking a higher volume of pictures and therefore having more shots from which to select the best ones. Will it make a difference for you if you are in a remote location for an extended period and are limited to 20 pictures a day, or to 200?

Also, it could happen to you to forget to delete or transfer the contents of the memory to another device like and to find yourself with a full memory when you most need it. Having extra digital storage capacity could mean the difference between taking that wonderful picture and missing out on a priceless moment.

One note of caution though. When buying digital camera storage cards, make sure that you get the right make, because not all memory cards are compatible with any kind of camera brand.

You will find digital camera storage cards with 32 gigabytes or more, but don't put all your eggs in one basket by buying a single one, spread your storage across several memory cards for security, should one card fail.

If you get the recommended digital camera storage cards, you should also consider buying a memory card reader, which makes transfer very easy, whether to a computer or directly to a digital photo printer.

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