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.
Department: Syndication - Tags: do-it-yourself, equipment
This instructional video is a quick do-it-yourself (DIY) project. The goal of this project is to create an image stabilizer system for your camera. The materials needed are very cheap (about $1 USD), and it’s actually quite effective. It’s not nearly as effective as a tripod, but it will at least get you another f-stop or two.
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.
Many photographers will recommend carrying your camera around always. I am also an advocate of having your camera with you as often as possible. You may not want to carry around your full setup, you may not even need to carry around more than a single lens. That said, it’s usually a good idea to have an additional bag for your daily routine. Choosing a bag for any reason is often more preference than science, but there is a bit of a method to selecting such an addition to your list.
Digital Photography School has a new article offering advice on this very task: Choosing a Day Bag for Your Camera - a well written article with a lot of great tips and ideas.
