Tips on Buying a Digicam:
I
have found that the 8 megapixel (mp) and higher digicams are not worth the extra
investment at this time. I recommend staying with dependable and perfected 4-6
megapixel models. Try and find a model from last year with a good rebate
($100 or more). Plan
on spending around $450 for a decent 5mp point and shoot, and $700 for a digital
SLR body.
Compact Flash: Stay with name brands such as Sandisk, Viking, Lexar, or Kingston.
Nikon
View Software: Is not needed with Windows XP, 2000, or 98.
Simply use the available "thumbnail view" to manage your
pictures. Nikon Capture ($99) on the other hand is worth its weight in
cold when combined with the D70.
Photo Editors:
A. Adobe Photoshop
(all versions including Elements) is simply the best IF you are willing to learn how to use them.
Affordable classes are available at community colleges, and you could also pickup an
academic version of the software while you are registered. You will find
many guides and tutorials within my photo links above under "post
processing." www.Amazon.com is a
great place to purchase electronics and software.
C. The Microsoft Photo Editor (version in office 2000 or XP Premium) is pretty
slick for quick color adjustments, cropping, and even just viewing images. It is also included with MS Office "free."
Windows XP SP2 includes some great scanning and imaging tools like slide show
creator and an image re-size. (Note: I prefer the photo editor
version from 2000 and prior versions.)
Taking Better
Pictures:
Use a flash whenever
possible (Even on a sunny day, flash fill can improve your pictures.)
Photography is the capture of light, and less isn't more when it comes to light
and color. Be aware of your flash range in real world distance
(Experiment) This is why you see professional photographers with massive
flash setups. Most flashes work within the 3-12 feet range. Check
your user's manual for your model.
Press the shutter smoothly and slowly. You don't want to shake the camera
while focusing or taking a picture. Some photographers go as far as to
hold their breath while snapping a shot when not using a tripod. Newer
cameras have timers, computer controlled, wired, and wireless remotes.
Avoid having people pose. Candid shots always capture more character.
If you must have someone pose, make sure you focus on their eyes. Increase
your aperture when taking pictures of groups. This prevents people in the
background from being out of focus.
When taking pictures of people, avoid having them directly at the camera, this
will reduce red-eye.
Try and avoid shooting
into the sun. Not only is it bad for your eyes and could damage your
digital camera, you won't be able to capture colors very well. Place the
sun in the outer 1/3rd of your picture.
Learn how to use manual modes to improve overall results. I like to use
"automatic bracketing" which takes three photos at different settings
with one long button press. It takes a bit longer to take a shot, but you
will avoid having to retake shots. Having a few versions of the same
picture along with some advanced editing in Photoshop can provide simply amazing
results. (Read up on Photoshop Layers)
Pay attention to exposure/speed/ISO even when you use Auto modes. By
closely paying attention to these settings you will learn which conditions
require which settings. You don't have to memorize the settings, just be
aware of the changes for different lighting conditions.
Spend some time with the manual that came with your camera. You want to be
very familiar with all of those little buttons as they are there for a reason.
Revisit your manual often.
I like to participate
in photo challenges online. You will be given assignments, and in return
you will receive feedback and suggestions on the pictures you take. This
advice may come from another rookie or a professional, but can still be quite
valuable.
Do your homework! Practice, practice, practice, and have fun! I hope
you found this web page useful. Food donations for my work are always
welcome. :)
Happy Shooting
Always more to come...
