Mastering Digital SLR Cameras is Mastering Photography Itself
There are many amateur and professional camera users who are shifting to digital models for the ease, convenience, and efficiency of taking, sharing and storing their photos.
Camera users can be classified as hobbyists, novice, or professionals. To whichever category you belong, it is suggested that you consider the following basic information about digital cameras:
1.) Categories of cameras
Cameras can be grouped into:
a. Ultra Compact - no flash mode
b. Prosumer or Compact - for hobbyists
c. Digital SLR - include lenses, tripod, and external flashes; for professionals
If you want to master the art of digital photography, it is suggested that you master the aspects of the third category. Models that fall under this category are priced for their resolution and quality of images.
2.) Mega pixels
Mega pixels can be classified into:
a. 3 mega pixels - for basic snapshots
b. Between 3 and 5 mega pixels - images have good print quality
c. Between 5 and 7 mega pixels - images can be easily manipulated; larger print sizes can be made
3.) Zoom
A camera's zoom is normally categorized into:
a. Optical zoom factor - what is distant appears closer by magnifying the light entering through the main lens
b. Digital zoom factor - magnifies the resulting image
Quality of digital photographs depends mostly on the optical zoom factor.
4.) Storage media
Common storage formats:
a. Compact Flash (for compact and DSLRs)
b. Sony Memory Stick (compatible with other Sony appliances)
c. Smart Media
Storage sizes normally range from 64K, which can store 3 dozen mega pixel images; 1G can store about 500 images with the same mega pixels
5.) Carrying case
You should store your camera and its accessories in a protective case.
6.) Tripod
Tripods can be used when setting the timer mode and keeping the focus stable.
7.) Lenses and Filters
Some digital cameras allow additional lenses to be attached to the main lens, or the lenses can be completely interchangeable.
Lenses can be categorized as follows:
a. Macro Lens - allows you to get closer to objects like insects and flowers
b. Wide-angle Lens - used for capturing landmarks, and large and wide sceneries
c. Telephoto Lens - allows longer zooms that let you get close to objects that may be unsafe
Filters, on the other hand are used to:
a. Soften the effect of the image
b. Provide blurring on the edges for portraits that have sensitive moods
c. Add light flares for the image to be more dramatic
d. Reduce glare so that pictures appear more saturated, crisp, and vivid.
Here are some basic strategies on how to capture a quality image:
1. Holding the camera
You should hold the camera steadily and keep your spare fingers from interfering with the lens. This skill can take some practice.
2.) Focusing
To keep the camera from shuddering it is best to half-press the button until you are able to lock your view on the focus, and then press completely. You may also use a tripod for better focusing.
3.) Previewing
Take and retake pictures if necessary after previewing them in your LCD screen.
4.) Archiving
Keep an album of your best photographs to refer to as you work your way to becoming an accomplished photographer.
Once you have mastered all aspects of using your simple compact and digital SLR cameras, you'll be capturing memorable images with great ease and perfection.
