Photography and Digital Portrait Photographers
Are you looking for some inside information on Digital Photography? Here's an up-to-date report from Digital Photography experts who should know.
Definition of Resolution by Robbie Darmona
Resolution can be defined as the number of pixels that, constellated together, form an image or a photograph. Pixels are small points on the image that can have various colors. Digital photography uses pixels to create photos. Image sizes in photography are measured by the number of pixels in width and depth. The measurement is generally determined as resolution. Computer screens use the same measurements as digital photography. Most typical are sizes such as 800 x 600, 1024 x 768, 1280 x 960, 1280 x 1024, and so on.
The general thing about digital photography is the number of pixels. Different resolution makes for different images. The more pixels an image has, the more elaborate it is. Details depend on the number of pixels. But bigger resolution also means bigger image file size and larger print size. This may cause some difficulties if you are trying to print the image by yourself. Larger file formats also cause trouble when sending files via email: some email accounts have specific space and your attached files are too large to be received. Despite this, people prefer resolution with greater number of pixels. The picture looks much more realistic when more pixels construct it. It is the same as in the puzzle game: the more pieces a puzzle has, the more complex it looks. Pixels give additional shades and nuances because they can take different colors, so the image looks as real as possible.
If your Digital Photography facts are out-of-date, how will that affect your actions and decisions? Make certain you don't let important Digital Photography information slip by you.
Let's discuss the difficulties of file and print size. Using a 3 megapixel camera, you have no trouble printing 8x10 or smaller photographs and get satisfying results. If you want to print something bigger, you will get into trouble. You'd better go to a printing shop. For prints of larger size, you may need special paper and a professional, who can do it for you. Another thing to remember is changing of size. You can change the print size without making defects on the resolution. But this can only be done when making an existing photo smaller. If you decided to enlarge a small image using a program, you'd better give it up. Smaller images are made of different resolution formats and when you enlarge them, the number of pixels stays the same and is no longer compatible with the larger copy, so the quality of the photo is lost. Resolution defines the file size as well. You may try to convert larger files into smaller ones, before sending them through email. Before re-sizing an image, you should better save it in its original resolution quality. Save it in its larger and pixel-rich size and then make it smaller in the editing program for emailing. In that case you will always have a copy of the original if you like to print it. Remember that once resized, an image cannot be brought back to its previous size, as it is larger and resolution would be changed for the worse. This effect is called pixelation: when you try to enlarge an existing copy. It always results in worse printing image quality.
There are three points you should remember about resolution.
1) The higher the resolution, the better printed image quality. 2) The higher the resolution, the larger the file size and the larger the print size. 3) Do not confuse pixels with dots. They are not the same. Pixels per inch (PPI) and dots per inch (DPI) are variables completely different from one another.
About the Author
Article by Robbie Darmona - an article writer who writes on a wide variety of subjects. For more information click Photo hosting
As your knowledge about Digital Photography continues to grow, you will begin to see how Digital Photography fits into the overall scheme of things. Knowing how something relates to the rest of the world is important too.
Article by Robbie Darmona - an article writer who writes on a wide variety of subjects. For more information click Photo hosting
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robbie_Darmona
Friday, March 17, 2006
Monday, March 6, 2006
Digital Portraits for Seniors and Graduates
Senior Portrait Studio Photographer
When you're learning about something new, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of relevant information available. This informative article should help you focus on the central points.
Senior Portraits with Digital
The more you understand about any subject, the more interesting it becomes. As you read this article you'll find that the subject of Digital Portraits is certainly no exception. Digital Photography Techniques - The Secrets That Make The Difference Between Dazzling Photos... or Boring Bloopers So far we've talked about cameras and accessories. But there'sanother very important element to taking pictures that can'tbe ignored — the person behind the camera.
Digital photography technique may seem like a daunting term,but it's really about the basics of digital photography.
"Choosing the right photographer is an important decision"
No matter how good the camera is, the critical decisions aboutthe picture are always in the hands of the photographer.That's why today we're going to talk about the art of takinggood pictures...
How Can I Improve My Digital Photography Techniques And Make Sure I Take Good Pictures? There is only one chance to capture each magic moment. It'simpossible to re-play the scene if you're disappointed withyour picture. That's why it pays to be prepared and ready.Here are several tips to help you make sure your digitalpictures turn out memorable:
Get The Lighting And White Balance Right: Lighting is much more important to digital cameras than tofilm cameras. If your digital camera has settings fordifferent lighting conditions, such as daylight, cloudy,fluorescent, incandescent, make sure you use them-it can makeor break your pictures. Never aim a digital camera at a lightsource (unless it's a sunset or candles). Make sure thatbright lamps, sunshine, glare, etc. are out of the frame.
Use a flash for indoor shots and dim outdoor lighting. If theflash is too bright, lower the intensity a couple of f-stops,or use a homemade diffuser by placing a one-ply tissue overthe flash. Be Sure To Get Close Enough: One of the biggest reasons digital pictures look bad isbecause they were taken from too far away. Avoid vast expansesof boring "dead" space (like the walls, ceiling, grass,pavement). Move in and get close to your subject. Fill theframe with the scene, the people, or the faces you want andleave the background out.
So far, we've uncovered some interesting facts about Senior Portrait. You may decide that the following information is even more interesting.
Reduce Red-Eye: It's almost impossible to completely eliminate red eye with apocket or compact digital camera. But it can be reduced byusing the "Portrait" setting, turning up the house lights, andhaving the subject face the light while turning slightly awayfrom the flash. If all else fails, use image-editing software to remove red-eye.
You can see that there's practical value in learning more about Digital Portraits. Can you think of ways to apply what's been covered so far?
Compose Your Pictures: Before pressing the shutter, take a quick, objective look atthe composition and background. If there's clutter,distraction or a confusing subject, make changes before takingthe picture.
Steady The Camera: Prevent "camera shake," by using a wall, table or tripod tohold the camera steady, especially at night. And be sure towait until the camera completes the shot before you put thecamera down. It can take 5 seconds or longer if the light is low.
Be Prepared For Shutter Lag: Digital cameras are really small computers-they require timeto capture the scene. Plan ahead when shooting people andespecially children or your two-year-old's smile could be ascowl by the time the shutter snaps. Anticipate the perfectmoment and press the shutter just before it happens. It'stough to do, but with practice, you get better at it. Use High Resolution: High resolution and low compression produce smoother and moredetailed images. For best results, get 3.2 MP or higher anduse the highest resolution for important pictures you plan to print.
Have Battery Backups And Extra Storage On Hand: Running out of batteries or room on your storage card puts aquick end to your photo fun. Be prepared with spare batteriesand another memory card so nothing puts a damper on yourmemories.
Learn more digital photography techniques in "Master Your Digital Camera in Four Easy Steps:"http://hop.clickbank.net/?photograph/dazzlepics Do all the strange terms in digital photography sometimes seemto be another language? Can't tell the difference betweencompression and dynamic range? Or a megabyte from a megapixel?In the next section, I've included a quick Digital Photography Terminology reference guide. Feel free to print it out and refer to it. Look for it tomorrow, Rufina James
http://hop.clickbank.net/?photograph/dazzlepics
support@masteryourdigitalcamera.com
Of course, it's impossible to put everything about Digital Portraits into just one article. But you can't deny that you've just added to your understanding about Digital Portraits, and that's time well spent.
Take time to consider the points presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action. Rufina James http://hop.clickbank.net/?photograph/dazzlepics
support@masteryourdigitalcamera.com
Of course, it's impossible to put everything about Digital Portraits into just one article. But you can't deny that you've just added to your understanding about Digital Portraits, and that's time well spent.
When you're learning about something new, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of relevant information available. This informative article should help you focus on the central points.
Senior Portraits with Digital
The more you understand about any subject, the more interesting it becomes. As you read this article you'll find that the subject of Digital Portraits is certainly no exception. Digital Photography Techniques - The Secrets That Make The Difference Between Dazzling Photos... or Boring Bloopers So far we've talked about cameras and accessories. But there'sanother very important element to taking pictures that can'tbe ignored — the person behind the camera.
Digital photography technique may seem like a daunting term,but it's really about the basics of digital photography.
"Choosing the right photographer is an important decision"
No matter how good the camera is, the critical decisions aboutthe picture are always in the hands of the photographer.That's why today we're going to talk about the art of takinggood pictures...
How Can I Improve My Digital Photography Techniques And Make Sure I Take Good Pictures? There is only one chance to capture each magic moment. It'simpossible to re-play the scene if you're disappointed withyour picture. That's why it pays to be prepared and ready.Here are several tips to help you make sure your digitalpictures turn out memorable:
Get The Lighting And White Balance Right: Lighting is much more important to digital cameras than tofilm cameras. If your digital camera has settings fordifferent lighting conditions, such as daylight, cloudy,fluorescent, incandescent, make sure you use them-it can makeor break your pictures. Never aim a digital camera at a lightsource (unless it's a sunset or candles). Make sure thatbright lamps, sunshine, glare, etc. are out of the frame.
Use a flash for indoor shots and dim outdoor lighting. If theflash is too bright, lower the intensity a couple of f-stops,or use a homemade diffuser by placing a one-ply tissue overthe flash. Be Sure To Get Close Enough: One of the biggest reasons digital pictures look bad isbecause they were taken from too far away. Avoid vast expansesof boring "dead" space (like the walls, ceiling, grass,pavement). Move in and get close to your subject. Fill theframe with the scene, the people, or the faces you want andleave the background out.
So far, we've uncovered some interesting facts about Senior Portrait. You may decide that the following information is even more interesting.
Reduce Red-Eye: It's almost impossible to completely eliminate red eye with apocket or compact digital camera. But it can be reduced byusing the "Portrait" setting, turning up the house lights, andhaving the subject face the light while turning slightly awayfrom the flash. If all else fails, use image-editing software to remove red-eye.
You can see that there's practical value in learning more about Digital Portraits. Can you think of ways to apply what's been covered so far?
Compose Your Pictures: Before pressing the shutter, take a quick, objective look atthe composition and background. If there's clutter,distraction or a confusing subject, make changes before takingthe picture.
Steady The Camera: Prevent "camera shake," by using a wall, table or tripod tohold the camera steady, especially at night. And be sure towait until the camera completes the shot before you put thecamera down. It can take 5 seconds or longer if the light is low.
Be Prepared For Shutter Lag: Digital cameras are really small computers-they require timeto capture the scene. Plan ahead when shooting people andespecially children or your two-year-old's smile could be ascowl by the time the shutter snaps. Anticipate the perfectmoment and press the shutter just before it happens. It'stough to do, but with practice, you get better at it. Use High Resolution: High resolution and low compression produce smoother and moredetailed images. For best results, get 3.2 MP or higher anduse the highest resolution for important pictures you plan to print.
Have Battery Backups And Extra Storage On Hand: Running out of batteries or room on your storage card puts aquick end to your photo fun. Be prepared with spare batteriesand another memory card so nothing puts a damper on yourmemories.
Learn more digital photography techniques in "Master Your Digital Camera in Four Easy Steps:"http://hop.clickbank.net/?photograph/dazzlepics Do all the strange terms in digital photography sometimes seemto be another language? Can't tell the difference betweencompression and dynamic range? Or a megabyte from a megapixel?In the next section, I've included a quick Digital Photography Terminology reference guide. Feel free to print it out and refer to it. Look for it tomorrow, Rufina James
http://hop.clickbank.net/?photograph/dazzlepics
support@masteryourdigitalcamera.com
Of course, it's impossible to put everything about Digital Portraits into just one article. But you can't deny that you've just added to your understanding about Digital Portraits, and that's time well spent.
Take time to consider the points presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action. Rufina James http://hop.clickbank.net/?photograph/dazzlepics
support@masteryourdigitalcamera.com
Of course, it's impossible to put everything about Digital Portraits into just one article. But you can't deny that you've just added to your understanding about Digital Portraits, and that's time well spent.
Thursday, March 2, 2006
Wedding Photography: How to Become a Wedding Photographer
Finding the right San Antonio Wedding Photographer
If you're seriously interested in knowing about Weddings, you need to think beyond the basics. This informative article takes a closer look at things you need to know about Weddings.
See how much you can learn about Weddings when you take a little time to read a well-researched article? Don't miss out on the rest of this great information.
Once in while I receive e-mails or phone calls from aspiring or beginner wedding photographers asking me for advise on how to become successful in the wedding field. My first question is always what their motivation is to become a wedding photographer. Some will reply that they heard from somebody that it is easy money, or that they got a cool camera that takes great photos or that they would like to make some money on the side etc. While it is true that wedding photography can be a very profitable business achieving success in the wedding industry is not just a matter of getting a camera and start shooting. Wedding photography involves artistic talent, human sense, complete mastery of photographic techniques, business knowledge, and a strong desire to learn and deliver the best to the wedding couple.Here I have summarized some points that I believe will guide beginner wedding photographers:
When word gets around about your command of Weddings facts, others who need to know about Weddings will start to actively seek you out. "
"Wedding Photography
Wedding Photography Packages
Professional Wedding Photography
If you want something different and artistic"
1. Learn photography before anything else. A wedding photographer is expected to be a master of the craft. You will be in charge of capturing people's most precious life moments. The wedding day is not the place to learn photography.
2. Just because you got a brand new camera it does not automatically make you an effective and reliable photographer. Photography goes beyond cool toys and gadgets. Learn composition and develop a unique artistic vision. Some of the great photographs of all time were taken with manual cameras.
3. Master the digital workflow, including color management, digital image processing, file management and image correction and enhancement.
4. Learn to love photography more than anything else. Don't come to the wedding photography field with just dreams of making money. It is true that there are many successful wedding photographers that make a lot of money. However according to the Professional Photographers of America the average photographer in America makes about $24,000 a year.
5. Focus on delivering quality more than quantity. Seek with all your heart to capture unique photographs.
6. Develop a style that is recognizable and unique. Don't try to be like somebody else. Clients look for unique photographers, with a unique vision.
7. Give wedding photography all your heart and effort. Long when you are gone your photographs will last forever. It is a great way to be remembered.
8. Open your heart and your mind and great photos will happen. Concentrate on the human aspect of weddings, the details, and emotions and be ready to capture them. Let the camera become an extension of you.
9. Share your technical knowledge and make connections with other wedding photographers.
10. Participate in wedding photography image competitions. It will give you the opportunity to have your work evaluated by peers and the motivation to improve your work quality.
11. Learn something new everyday. Take advantage of professional photography organizations such as Professional Photographers of America (PPA), WPPI, etc. Attend their seminars, workshops. Participate in Internet wedding photography forums and learn and share tips, tools and techniques.
12. Don't neglect the business aspect of wedding photography. Learn to manage your business effectively. Take business courses and seminars.
Juan Carlos Torres is a very respected and awarded wedding photographer in Oregon. He has a Masters Degree in Remote Sensing with a strong background in digital image processing and photography. He is a member of the several professional photographer organizations including the Professional Photographers of America, the Professional Photographers of Oregon, the Wedding Photojournalist Association,and the Oregon Wedding Photo Guild. His wedding photographs are unique and very artistic and have been featured in national and international magazines. For a sample of his works please visit Portland Oregon Wedding Photographer and Eugene Oregon Wedding Photography
San Antonio Wedding Photographer
For a discussion on wedding photography see our Blog at Oregon Wedding Photographer
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Juan_Carlos_Torres
If you're seriously interested in knowing about Weddings, you need to think beyond the basics. This informative article takes a closer look at things you need to know about Weddings.
See how much you can learn about Weddings when you take a little time to read a well-researched article? Don't miss out on the rest of this great information.
Once in while I receive e-mails or phone calls from aspiring or beginner wedding photographers asking me for advise on how to become successful in the wedding field. My first question is always what their motivation is to become a wedding photographer. Some will reply that they heard from somebody that it is easy money, or that they got a cool camera that takes great photos or that they would like to make some money on the side etc. While it is true that wedding photography can be a very profitable business achieving success in the wedding industry is not just a matter of getting a camera and start shooting. Wedding photography involves artistic talent, human sense, complete mastery of photographic techniques, business knowledge, and a strong desire to learn and deliver the best to the wedding couple.Here I have summarized some points that I believe will guide beginner wedding photographers:
When word gets around about your command of Weddings facts, others who need to know about Weddings will start to actively seek you out. "
"Wedding Photography
Wedding Photography Packages
Professional Wedding Photography
If you want something different and artistic"
1. Learn photography before anything else. A wedding photographer is expected to be a master of the craft. You will be in charge of capturing people's most precious life moments. The wedding day is not the place to learn photography.
2. Just because you got a brand new camera it does not automatically make you an effective and reliable photographer. Photography goes beyond cool toys and gadgets. Learn composition and develop a unique artistic vision. Some of the great photographs of all time were taken with manual cameras.
3. Master the digital workflow, including color management, digital image processing, file management and image correction and enhancement.
4. Learn to love photography more than anything else. Don't come to the wedding photography field with just dreams of making money. It is true that there are many successful wedding photographers that make a lot of money. However according to the Professional Photographers of America the average photographer in America makes about $24,000 a year.
5. Focus on delivering quality more than quantity. Seek with all your heart to capture unique photographs.
6. Develop a style that is recognizable and unique. Don't try to be like somebody else. Clients look for unique photographers, with a unique vision.
7. Give wedding photography all your heart and effort. Long when you are gone your photographs will last forever. It is a great way to be remembered.
8. Open your heart and your mind and great photos will happen. Concentrate on the human aspect of weddings, the details, and emotions and be ready to capture them. Let the camera become an extension of you.
9. Share your technical knowledge and make connections with other wedding photographers.
10. Participate in wedding photography image competitions. It will give you the opportunity to have your work evaluated by peers and the motivation to improve your work quality.
11. Learn something new everyday. Take advantage of professional photography organizations such as Professional Photographers of America (PPA), WPPI, etc. Attend their seminars, workshops. Participate in Internet wedding photography forums and learn and share tips, tools and techniques.
12. Don't neglect the business aspect of wedding photography. Learn to manage your business effectively. Take business courses and seminars.
Juan Carlos Torres is a very respected and awarded wedding photographer in Oregon. He has a Masters Degree in Remote Sensing with a strong background in digital image processing and photography. He is a member of the several professional photographer organizations including the Professional Photographers of America, the Professional Photographers of Oregon, the Wedding Photojournalist Association,and the Oregon Wedding Photo Guild. His wedding photographs are unique and very artistic and have been featured in national and international magazines. For a sample of his works please visit Portland Oregon Wedding Photographer and Eugene Oregon Wedding Photography
San Antonio Wedding Photographer
For a discussion on wedding photography see our Blog at Oregon Wedding Photographer
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Juan_Carlos_Torres
Monday, February 27, 2006
Camera Digital Technology - Sensors, Storage Space And Snapshot Sharpness
Camera Digital Technology - Sensors, Storage Space And Snapshot SharpnessBy Rika Susan
Camera digital technology: do you have to understand it to utilize it? Probably not, especially if you're using a consumer digital camera - a point-and-shoot - and you just want to get that holiday trip recorded for posterity...
On the other hand, it is quite useful to have a good grip on camera digital technology to get the best out of that little technological marvel!
For starters, it makes sense to know that the number of pictures you can take on your camera depends on the file format you select, and on your camera's storage capacity.
Camera digital technology generally works with two main formats, the JPG and the RAW file. The latter is for storing as much as possible original data per picture, to be adjusted later on a PC. The RAW format is of particular interest to professionals. RAW pictures often need nearly 10 times as much storage space as JPG files, so a casual photographer will generally choose to use JPG.
However, your camera might give you the option of selecting high quality JPG's or standard quality JPG's - the latter using less space, and mostly giving quite satisfactory results.
The camera will store the picture files on a card. A 256MB card can sometimes store more than 80 images of standard JPG size. If you're willing to spend more, new camera digital technology allows you to buy cards with 10 times more storage capacity.
Another aspect of camera digital technology which is useful to know about, is the way the images are captured. In stead of the film of well, film cameras, digital cameras have a silicon sensor with light-sensitive photosites (pixels) which capture the light information.
These sensors are often less precise than film when it comes to rendering detail in shadows and highlights. Camera digital technology therefore dictates that you should be careful not to "blow" your highlights. If they are not captured in the first place, you can't make any adjustments afterwards in your software processing.
To ensure you capture as much shadow and highlight detail as possible, and in a balanced way, camera digital technology offers you the use of a histogram. This handy tool is a little graph which indicates how the levels of brightness are distributed in an image. Many cameras show a histogram in real time, while you compose your image, giving you the opportunity to make exposure adjustments.
While digital camera lenses are essentially "old technology", it is useful to know that you can get excellent quality pictures from fairly inexpensive consumer cameras. This has once again to do with the sensor used in camera digital technology.
As the sensor in these point-and-shoots have a much smaller surface area than the 35mm film of a film camera, the former can get a much sharper and detailed image than a film camera with the same lens, due to the smaller focal area.
Camera digital technology has the major advantage of offering you stacks of opportunity to experiment with taking first-rate pictures, because you don't have to be concerned with the expenses relating to camera film.
So go out there and put the new camera digital technology to use!
Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com researches, writes, and publishes full-time on the Web. Copyright of this article: 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rika_Susan
Camera digital technology: do you have to understand it to utilize it? Probably not, especially if you're using a consumer digital camera - a point-and-shoot - and you just want to get that holiday trip recorded for posterity...
On the other hand, it is quite useful to have a good grip on camera digital technology to get the best out of that little technological marvel!
For starters, it makes sense to know that the number of pictures you can take on your camera depends on the file format you select, and on your camera's storage capacity.
Camera digital technology generally works with two main formats, the JPG and the RAW file. The latter is for storing as much as possible original data per picture, to be adjusted later on a PC. The RAW format is of particular interest to professionals. RAW pictures often need nearly 10 times as much storage space as JPG files, so a casual photographer will generally choose to use JPG.
However, your camera might give you the option of selecting high quality JPG's or standard quality JPG's - the latter using less space, and mostly giving quite satisfactory results.
The camera will store the picture files on a card. A 256MB card can sometimes store more than 80 images of standard JPG size. If you're willing to spend more, new camera digital technology allows you to buy cards with 10 times more storage capacity.
Another aspect of camera digital technology which is useful to know about, is the way the images are captured. In stead of the film of well, film cameras, digital cameras have a silicon sensor with light-sensitive photosites (pixels) which capture the light information.
These sensors are often less precise than film when it comes to rendering detail in shadows and highlights. Camera digital technology therefore dictates that you should be careful not to "blow" your highlights. If they are not captured in the first place, you can't make any adjustments afterwards in your software processing.
To ensure you capture as much shadow and highlight detail as possible, and in a balanced way, camera digital technology offers you the use of a histogram. This handy tool is a little graph which indicates how the levels of brightness are distributed in an image. Many cameras show a histogram in real time, while you compose your image, giving you the opportunity to make exposure adjustments.
While digital camera lenses are essentially "old technology", it is useful to know that you can get excellent quality pictures from fairly inexpensive consumer cameras. This has once again to do with the sensor used in camera digital technology.
As the sensor in these point-and-shoots have a much smaller surface area than the 35mm film of a film camera, the former can get a much sharper and detailed image than a film camera with the same lens, due to the smaller focal area.
Camera digital technology has the major advantage of offering you stacks of opportunity to experiment with taking first-rate pictures, because you don't have to be concerned with the expenses relating to camera film.
So go out there and put the new camera digital technology to use!
Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com researches, writes, and publishes full-time on the Web. Copyright of this article: 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rika_Susan
Monday, February 13, 2006
Senior Portraits and The Senior Portrait Photography Studio
Studio Photography and Digital Backgrounds
Do you ever feel like you know just enough about Studio Photography to be dangerous? Let's see if we can fill in some of the gaps with the latest info from Studio Photography experts.
The article given here was written for Adobe Photoshop 5,6,7,CS, and Adobe Photoshop Elements 2 and 3.
Most photographers who are serious about improving their portrait taking skills have realized that a beautiful background can greatly enhance their photographs.
Muslins are a very popular choice among professionals. However, they can get very costly at several hundred dollars each. For the professional who is well established, this may not seem too much, but for the hobbyist, this may be a stretch.
A less costly alternative is a digital background. With a digital background, one can get the look and feel of a professional looking portrait without the additional cost of muslin.
Many Photography websites also sell digital backgrounds on cd. In some cases…as low as $15.00 dollars for an assorted collection. As with anything else…you usually get what you pay for. Some of these pre-made digital backgrounds are not worth the cd they’re printed on, but some of them are very beautifully made. Even so, you may be wondering how YOU can make your very own digital background. That being said, the following information will help guide you along the way.
Okay, let’s create a digital backdrop using Adobe Elements 2.0. We will create an 8x10 300dpi (dpi = dots per inch or ppi = pixels per inch) digital backdrop. For printing purposes, 300dpi is strongly recommended for a high quality print. This will also create a large file approximately 20.6megs.
Having a fast processor (Pentium 4 or Athlon XP) and at least 256megs of ram will definitely help. Also having your screen resolution on your monitor set to its highest setting 24 or 32bit will give the best results.
Okay let’s begin! If you haven’t already opened Photoshop Elements, do so now.
1. Click on File < New. When the window opens up,make sure to set it to 8x10 inches at 300dpi.
2. Make a copy of the background layer you just created by pressing Control-J on your keyboard. If you look at the bottom right corner of your monitor, you should see an exact copy of your background layer named layer 1.
3. Select the “foreground” color for your background by clicking on the foreground square on your toolbar… the black one. (Bottom left)
4. The Color Picker window should now be open. Select a light red by clicking on the top right corner of the color palette. Click ok.
5. Now select the “background” color by clicking on the background square on your toolbar… the white one. (Bottom right)
The best time to learn about Studio Photography is before you're in the thick of things. Wise readers will keep reading to earn some valuable Studio Photography experience while it's still free.
6. The Color Picker window should open again. Select a darker red by clicking halfway below the lighter red you previously chose. Click ok.
7. Now comes the fun part! Let’s put some clouds in there. On the top of your screen, click on Filter
8. First, make sure that layer 1 is not locked! Look at your layers palette on the bottom right of your screen. Do you see the little black “lock” icon? Make sure that the little white square to the left is NOT checked!
9. Okay, now press “m” on your keyboard. At the top left corner of your backdrop, click and drag your mouse to create a 2x3 inch square. If you do not see the ruler along side your backdrop, press “control-r” on your keyboard.
10. Press “v” on your keyboard. Your selection should now have little handles on all sides that you can click on to pull to any size you want. If you do not see any handles, click on “Show Bounding Box” at the top.
11. Click on the lower right handle in the corner and drag and stretch it to the bottom right corner of your backdrop.
12. Double click anywhere on the red backdrop to apply the resizing. Now press “L” on your keyboard then “control-d”.
Okay, now you should have a beautiful looking backdrop ready to use, but wait, there is still more we can do to take it to another level. You will be simply amazed at the results you will be getting in the next few steps. You may have noticed that many types of muslins on the market have painted on them what’s known, as a “hot spot”.
What is a hot spot? A hot spot is a circular area near the center of the backdrop that is lighter in color. Why is this there? It allows the subject to stand out and creates a vignette at the borders. This will greatly enhance your backdrop. Are you ready? Okay, let’s do it!
13.On the top, click on Filter-Render-Lighting Effects. Select “Omni” for your “Light Type” and move the slider for your intensity to 25. Now click on the middle handle in the circle and raise the circle just above the halfway point to where the person’s head will appear.Click ok.
Now you should have an amazing looking backdrop!
Fabian Barajas is author of several Photoshop ebook tutorials including "How to Create Your Very Own Professional Looking Digital Backdrop!" His website which includes samples of his work is http://www.digital-background.net/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Fabian_Barajas
If you've picked some pointers about Studio Photography that you can put into action, then by all means, do so. You won't really be able to gain any benefits from your new knowledge if you don't use it.
Do you ever feel like you know just enough about Studio Photography to be dangerous? Let's see if we can fill in some of the gaps with the latest info from Studio Photography experts.
The article given here was written for Adobe Photoshop 5,6,7,CS, and Adobe Photoshop Elements 2 and 3.
Most photographers who are serious about improving their portrait taking skills have realized that a beautiful background can greatly enhance their photographs.
Muslins are a very popular choice among professionals. However, they can get very costly at several hundred dollars each. For the professional who is well established, this may not seem too much, but for the hobbyist, this may be a stretch.
A less costly alternative is a digital background. With a digital background, one can get the look and feel of a professional looking portrait without the additional cost of muslin.
Many Photography websites also sell digital backgrounds on cd. In some cases…as low as $15.00 dollars for an assorted collection. As with anything else…you usually get what you pay for. Some of these pre-made digital backgrounds are not worth the cd they’re printed on, but some of them are very beautifully made. Even so, you may be wondering how YOU can make your very own digital background. That being said, the following information will help guide you along the way.
Okay, let’s create a digital backdrop using Adobe Elements 2.0. We will create an 8x10 300dpi (dpi = dots per inch or ppi = pixels per inch) digital backdrop. For printing purposes, 300dpi is strongly recommended for a high quality print. This will also create a large file approximately 20.6megs.
Having a fast processor (Pentium 4 or Athlon XP) and at least 256megs of ram will definitely help. Also having your screen resolution on your monitor set to its highest setting 24 or 32bit will give the best results.
Okay let’s begin! If you haven’t already opened Photoshop Elements, do so now.
1. Click on File < New. When the window opens up,make sure to set it to 8x10 inches at 300dpi.
2. Make a copy of the background layer you just created by pressing Control-J on your keyboard. If you look at the bottom right corner of your monitor, you should see an exact copy of your background layer named layer 1.
3. Select the “foreground” color for your background by clicking on the foreground square on your toolbar… the black one. (Bottom left)
4. The Color Picker window should now be open. Select a light red by clicking on the top right corner of the color palette. Click ok.
5. Now select the “background” color by clicking on the background square on your toolbar… the white one. (Bottom right)
The best time to learn about Studio Photography is before you're in the thick of things. Wise readers will keep reading to earn some valuable Studio Photography experience while it's still free.
6. The Color Picker window should open again. Select a darker red by clicking halfway below the lighter red you previously chose. Click ok.
7. Now comes the fun part! Let’s put some clouds in there. On the top of your screen, click on Filter
8. First, make sure that layer 1 is not locked! Look at your layers palette on the bottom right of your screen. Do you see the little black “lock” icon? Make sure that the little white square to the left is NOT checked!
9. Okay, now press “m” on your keyboard. At the top left corner of your backdrop, click and drag your mouse to create a 2x3 inch square. If you do not see the ruler along side your backdrop, press “control-r” on your keyboard.
10. Press “v” on your keyboard. Your selection should now have little handles on all sides that you can click on to pull to any size you want. If you do not see any handles, click on “Show Bounding Box” at the top.
11. Click on the lower right handle in the corner and drag and stretch it to the bottom right corner of your backdrop.
12. Double click anywhere on the red backdrop to apply the resizing. Now press “L” on your keyboard then “control-d”.
Okay, now you should have a beautiful looking backdrop ready to use, but wait, there is still more we can do to take it to another level. You will be simply amazed at the results you will be getting in the next few steps. You may have noticed that many types of muslins on the market have painted on them what’s known, as a “hot spot”.
What is a hot spot? A hot spot is a circular area near the center of the backdrop that is lighter in color. Why is this there? It allows the subject to stand out and creates a vignette at the borders. This will greatly enhance your backdrop. Are you ready? Okay, let’s do it!
13.On the top, click on Filter-Render-Lighting Effects. Select “Omni” for your “Light Type” and move the slider for your intensity to 25. Now click on the middle handle in the circle and raise the circle just above the halfway point to where the person’s head will appear.Click ok.
Now you should have an amazing looking backdrop!
Fabian Barajas is author of several Photoshop ebook tutorials including "How to Create Your Very Own Professional Looking Digital Backdrop!" His website which includes samples of his work is http://www.digital-background.net/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Fabian_Barajas
If you've picked some pointers about Studio Photography that you can put into action, then by all means, do so. You won't really be able to gain any benefits from your new knowledge if you don't use it.
Thursday, February 9, 2006
Introduction to Travel Photography
Introduction to Travel PhotographyBy John S
If you’re a traveler and a photographer you’re blessed with the opportunity of a lifetime to capture moments in time from throughout the world and allow others to experience the world through your photography. Your adventures will become others dreams and inspiration. Often a particular photograph could make someone want to follow in your footsteps. Just one photograph could trigger the travel bug in someone and the next thing you know, you, the photographer, and enhancing people’s lives through the use of your camera.
Besides the impact travel photography has on others, it’s also very rewarding to the travel photographer. Chances are you would have had a camera on you anyways, so why not apply the creative principles of art photography to help enhance the pictures you take.
How to take the best travel photographsThere are two types of travel photography.
1) The “stand in front of that sweetie” brand and the “spontaneous and interesting” brand. Unfortunately most travel photography falls into the former category. We’ve all seen this type of photographer before, and regrettably most of us are guilty of it as well. We will try and capture the shot of something for no other purpose than to just prove we were there. The result is an often scripted, uncomfortable, predictable and visually boring picture. These types of pictures clog photo albums. Page one; the family in front of a water fountain. Page 2; the family in front of a monument. Page 3; the family in front of a sign that says something only funny to tourist. Congratulations, you’ve taken the same shots, in the same position as thousands and sometimes millions of other people. Let’s now turn our attention to the other brand of travel photography, the spontaneous and interesting brand.
2) with this type of photography you are still free to capture the tourist site and you are still allowed to include yourself in the picture. However, there will be a stark difference in both composition and character engagement. Let’s say for example that you and your family have gone on a kayaking for the day. Some people may line the kayaks up, gear up and stand in front of the kayaks, throw their thumbs in the air and “click”. The picture is taken. When you get home to look at your shot you realize that the picture didn’t capture the peacefulness of kayaking, the calming backdrop of mountains or the scared look on sisters face when she had to duck under a log. You’ve simply captured proof that you’ve been there and done that. A better idea would be to have someone on shore (because you probably don’t want a camera in a kayak unless you’re very skilled), and have them take pictures of the action while its happening. Even if you have to recreate events, it is still better than the scripted and visually boring alternative. Obviously capturing the moment spontaneously is best, but recreation finds itself in second place if that’s the only other option.
Likewise if you’re in Rome and you’d like to get a picture of your friend and the Coliseum all in one, try quickly pulling out your camera while they are looking at the size of the structure and snap a shot of the wonder and curiosity in their eyes. Often this takes some preplanning with however you’re with. You will need to tell them; “Look, when I take out the camera I don’t want you to stop what you’re doing and “say cheese”. Just keep doing what you’re doing because I’m trying to capture our unpredictable and beautiful life as it unfolds”. It may take a couple of times before they stop turning and looking your way, but once you get this down pat as a team, your pictures will turn out much better.
John S Stare Online Photography School http://www.starephotography.com
If you’re a traveler and a photographer you’re blessed with the opportunity of a lifetime to capture moments in time from throughout the world and allow others to experience the world through your photography. Your adventures will become others dreams and inspiration. Often a particular photograph could make someone want to follow in your footsteps. Just one photograph could trigger the travel bug in someone and the next thing you know, you, the photographer, and enhancing people’s lives through the use of your camera.
Besides the impact travel photography has on others, it’s also very rewarding to the travel photographer. Chances are you would have had a camera on you anyways, so why not apply the creative principles of art photography to help enhance the pictures you take.
How to take the best travel photographsThere are two types of travel photography.
1) The “stand in front of that sweetie” brand and the “spontaneous and interesting” brand. Unfortunately most travel photography falls into the former category. We’ve all seen this type of photographer before, and regrettably most of us are guilty of it as well. We will try and capture the shot of something for no other purpose than to just prove we were there. The result is an often scripted, uncomfortable, predictable and visually boring picture. These types of pictures clog photo albums. Page one; the family in front of a water fountain. Page 2; the family in front of a monument. Page 3; the family in front of a sign that says something only funny to tourist. Congratulations, you’ve taken the same shots, in the same position as thousands and sometimes millions of other people. Let’s now turn our attention to the other brand of travel photography, the spontaneous and interesting brand.
2) with this type of photography you are still free to capture the tourist site and you are still allowed to include yourself in the picture. However, there will be a stark difference in both composition and character engagement. Let’s say for example that you and your family have gone on a kayaking for the day. Some people may line the kayaks up, gear up and stand in front of the kayaks, throw their thumbs in the air and “click”. The picture is taken. When you get home to look at your shot you realize that the picture didn’t capture the peacefulness of kayaking, the calming backdrop of mountains or the scared look on sisters face when she had to duck under a log. You’ve simply captured proof that you’ve been there and done that. A better idea would be to have someone on shore (because you probably don’t want a camera in a kayak unless you’re very skilled), and have them take pictures of the action while its happening. Even if you have to recreate events, it is still better than the scripted and visually boring alternative. Obviously capturing the moment spontaneously is best, but recreation finds itself in second place if that’s the only other option.
Likewise if you’re in Rome and you’d like to get a picture of your friend and the Coliseum all in one, try quickly pulling out your camera while they are looking at the size of the structure and snap a shot of the wonder and curiosity in their eyes. Often this takes some preplanning with however you’re with. You will need to tell them; “Look, when I take out the camera I don’t want you to stop what you’re doing and “say cheese”. Just keep doing what you’re doing because I’m trying to capture our unpredictable and beautiful life as it unfolds”. It may take a couple of times before they stop turning and looking your way, but once you get this down pat as a team, your pictures will turn out much better.
John S Stare Online Photography School http://www.starephotography.com
Tuesday, February 7, 2006
Buying Your Child A Digital Camera - What You Need To Know
Buying Your Child A Digital Camera - What You Need To KnowBy Kevin Rockwell
Purchasing any gift item for your child is a mind-numbing task. You can never be sure whether they will like what you buy for them or not. So, when you want to buy a digital camera for your little kids, then there are lots of things, which you must know, which will help you (hopefully!) to get the right camera for your child.
One of the most important things for children is that the digital camera should be one of the latest available in the market. If it has been heavily advertised and people are talking about it, then it is even better. This gives children a sense of pride and also allows them to ‘show-off’ their possession to their friends.
Another factor, which is critical for children, is that the camera must look good. This is very, very important to them. It does not matter whether it has a big screen or small screen, whether it is 2 mega pixel or 1.5 mega pixel – the camera should have a smart shape, come in flashy colors or it can also look cute or funky. But, the camera should not look ‘boring’ or very ‘serious’ in nature. However good the functions might be, if the camera does not look good, it is most likely that your choice will get rejected.
The size is also important. Most children will definitely prefer a digital camera that is small and compact in size. The weight and size should be such that they are able to easily put the camera in their pocket or hang it by a string. Large and bulky models, even if they have better features are not advisable for children.
It is also necessary to remember that even though you might gift your child a digital camera to click photographs for school projects, they will be using it to take pictures of their friends. So, look for some ‘fun’ features in the digital camera. These can include colorful background images or sound effects, photographic effects that they can use to enhance the images taken by them.
One more thing is ease of use. It is important that the camera has a simple system through which children can easily take pictures quickly. However, you really do not need to worry about this aspect a lot because today’s children have been born in the digital era. They are able to pick up things much faster than you or me, so as long as the camera is good in all other aspects, even if its ‘click ability’ is a little confusing, it does not really matter. They are fast learners these days!
Last but not the least, is the price. While buying a digital camera for your child, it is understandable that you really do not want to spend a lot of money. There are lots of choices available in the market today. The price range starts from as low as $30 and can go up to $300. So, it really depends on how much you would like to spend on the camera. Start simple and upgrade if they grow out of the digital camera that you buy for them. Hey share them with the whole family!
Kevin Rockwell worked as a network TV cameraman for 20 years shooting news and sports. Now a devoted fan of digital photography and video he works to gather information, tips and news for digital camera users. Oh and he loves to shoot pictures of his kids playing sports. http://www.great-digital-cameras.com/gdcj.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Rockwell
Purchasing any gift item for your child is a mind-numbing task. You can never be sure whether they will like what you buy for them or not. So, when you want to buy a digital camera for your little kids, then there are lots of things, which you must know, which will help you (hopefully!) to get the right camera for your child.
One of the most important things for children is that the digital camera should be one of the latest available in the market. If it has been heavily advertised and people are talking about it, then it is even better. This gives children a sense of pride and also allows them to ‘show-off’ their possession to their friends.
Another factor, which is critical for children, is that the camera must look good. This is very, very important to them. It does not matter whether it has a big screen or small screen, whether it is 2 mega pixel or 1.5 mega pixel – the camera should have a smart shape, come in flashy colors or it can also look cute or funky. But, the camera should not look ‘boring’ or very ‘serious’ in nature. However good the functions might be, if the camera does not look good, it is most likely that your choice will get rejected.
The size is also important. Most children will definitely prefer a digital camera that is small and compact in size. The weight and size should be such that they are able to easily put the camera in their pocket or hang it by a string. Large and bulky models, even if they have better features are not advisable for children.
It is also necessary to remember that even though you might gift your child a digital camera to click photographs for school projects, they will be using it to take pictures of their friends. So, look for some ‘fun’ features in the digital camera. These can include colorful background images or sound effects, photographic effects that they can use to enhance the images taken by them.
One more thing is ease of use. It is important that the camera has a simple system through which children can easily take pictures quickly. However, you really do not need to worry about this aspect a lot because today’s children have been born in the digital era. They are able to pick up things much faster than you or me, so as long as the camera is good in all other aspects, even if its ‘click ability’ is a little confusing, it does not really matter. They are fast learners these days!
Last but not the least, is the price. While buying a digital camera for your child, it is understandable that you really do not want to spend a lot of money. There are lots of choices available in the market today. The price range starts from as low as $30 and can go up to $300. So, it really depends on how much you would like to spend on the camera. Start simple and upgrade if they grow out of the digital camera that you buy for them. Hey share them with the whole family!
Kevin Rockwell worked as a network TV cameraman for 20 years shooting news and sports. Now a devoted fan of digital photography and video he works to gather information, tips and news for digital camera users. Oh and he loves to shoot pictures of his kids playing sports. http://www.great-digital-cameras.com/gdcj.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Rockwell