With the ease at which we can post-process an image these days, the concept of using a lens filter is often overlooked. Filters do a lot to improve the quality of your photos, head and shoulders above any post-processing that you can apply. The reason is simple: You are controlling the data that actually gets to the film or sensor. Filters serve one primary function: Controlling light.
If you are a landscape photographer, you should have a fairly nice collection of filters in your bag. You’re dealing with an uncontrollable light source (the sun or moon), the best way to control light in your shots is to use a filter. Here are a few filters that no landscape photographer should be without.
Most cameras these days, even the SLR cameras, come with some sort of built-in flash. One is inclined to think that since the manufacturer added it, it must be a great source of light. I wish I could tell you that the built-in flash is dependable, but I would be stating an untruth. There are many situations where you have no other option: In order to get the shot, you need to use a flash. But in many cases, the built-in flash can ruin your photo. Here’s a few suggestions when it comes to using (or not using) your on-camera flash. [Read more →]
The Exchangeable Image File Format (EXIF) is a specification for the file format used by digital cameras. Basically, it is an additional bit of information (known as metadata) that is contained within an image file. It saves data such as the camera’s make and model number, Date and Time, Shutter Speed, ISO Speed Rating, Focal Length, Lens, and so on. For obvious reasons, this can be an incredible learning tool if you are aware of it. Here are a few tips for using the EXIF in your routine.
Department: Articles - Tags: candids & portraits, Features
I would have to say that the most fun I have with my camera is when I am doing self portraits. There is no one to offend. You know exactly how far you can push your subject (you). And you don’t mind experimenting on yourself. I also find that my most experimental works, especially in the portrait side of photography, is when I turn the camera on myself. In my portfolio, I have several self portraits, some of which you can see here. I have learned a lot from all of the self portraits I have taken. I would encourage any photographer to experiment with self-portraiture. Here are a few tips on getting started.
Department: Articles - Tags: progressive learning, reference, Technique
Inexperienced photographers are easily overwhelmed by the volume of information and experience that must be attained before they can consider themselves a good photographer. Hungry to learn as much as possible, many new photographers read a lot of books and articles. Sometimes, I feel that they read too much. Faced with all the information about your camera and the features new users should avoid, knowledge about ISO, Aperture, Shutter, White Balancing and the like, information overload is quick to be realized. The result is a massive army of photographers with a lot of technical know-how but not an impressive portfolio. The problem is that all of this information without a great deal of experience confuses new photographers, and their priorities aren’t in order. For that reason, I have created this list of what I will call The Skill Priority Tree.
