Better Photos Academy
Learn to shoot Pro photos in 20 mins and 1 lesson!

Nervous With Taking Fuzzy,Ordinary, Common Photos? Now you can let all this behind and shoot photos that are breathtaking !

These weekly tips can help you in your day to day interaction with the world. No matter of season, weather, environment, type of photo, portrait or abstract you can master simple techniques and get inspired on how to shoot and how to think a scene to get the most of it.

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iMagic-Photo Software

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Pro Photo Techniques

Discover Proven Digital Photography Tips to Stop the Frustration of Taking Awful Pictures that make you want to throw your camera into a brick wall and rip up all those “perfect” photos in the magazines  Click Here!

Depth of Field, technique and lenses

Wednesday, November 16th, 2011 at 5:17 am  
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Use of depth of field wisely

There is a certain way that experienced photographers take such stunning pictures, portraits and photographs where the subject being shot is focused in a clear and perfect manner while the background is sort of a blur.

See the bottle only

The following are the steps to take those amazing picture-perfect shots.

The technical

First things first, it is best that the camera being used has a large sensor. Also, a lens that is considered fast should also be used. “Fast” in photography language means a lens that has an aperture that is larger than f2.8.

When the aperture of a camera is large, the image or picture that will be produced has a depth of field that is shallow. In photography language, this basically means that the area that is behind as well as front of the subject being taken is a blur.

As much as possible, the shoulder and the head of the subject should fill the whole frame. Also, if the subject is a person, don’t forget to focus on the subject’s eyes.

DOF comparison

The technique

Practice really does make perfect. There is no such thing as a perfect job done only once. It takes perseverance as well as patience. When shooting pictures, try to take a series of shots using a lens that has a wide opening and a stop on at least one or two.

Focus on various areas such as the ear, nose, hair using varying apertures for such. When the pictures come out, you then have many different options to choose from.

To be able to create a depth of field that is shallow, the best thing you should do is use a long lens – preferably a telephoto – and have it set on the zoom that at its maximum. Then, try to stand as close to the subject as possible.

However, for subjects that are in motion, for example a car. The camera must then be moved the same way the subject is moving. Or simply put, the subject must be followed. The best film to be used for such a shot are ISO 400 films. For digital, set ISO to 400 or higher.

The body of the camera, especially when taking such moving picture shots, must be steady. Make sure to focus on the subject as you see it through the lens of the viewfinder. Using such a technique ensures that the subject being focused on is clear and crisp while the background is a beautiful blur. Such a picture helps highlight the movement being done by the subject therefore making it seemingly jump from the picture.

Photo effects

Believe it or not, there is also an easy and stress free way to create a similar photo effect without doing the techniques mentioned. This has become possible through the magic of software. Photoshop has a “blur” function, which blurs the picture’s background in a uniform manner independently as well as authentically the way an actual photograph may be done by a technically-savvy photographer. The software blur is and looks artificial while the real blur is more organic in feel.

Nice blur background!

Fortunately or unfortunately, the technology of software is advancing so that there is a CS4 version of Photoshop that enables anyone to create a blur that is considered as “smart.” This function takes into consideration the picture’s depth of field. This basically means that the function applies a lot of blurring effects to the pixels that appears more distant and applies a lot less blurring to the pixels that appear nearer. Believe it or not, such a function is adjustable that anyone could achieve any effect desired.

All in all, depth of field is a fairly easy concept to understand especially to those serious in learning the art and craft of photography. All it takes is a lot of patience, perseverance and a heart that is willing to learn as well as a mind that is open to making mistakes and gradually correcting them along the way towards creating a picture perfect shot.

Shoot more, learn more.

Lights, Camera…Click!!

Saturday, November 5th, 2011 at 2:14 am  
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Proper Lighting as a Technique in Photography

When the you flip through the pages of a magazine or see a billboard, you might think that it was done in just one shot. Unfortunately, this is not the case. In the early days before digital, professionals use rolls of film and then after developing, decide on the right shot before having this done by the printers.

The main trick to get the right shot is having the proper lighting to get the best impact from the audience. This isn’t done by magic or something compared to rocket science. It’s basically just using the right tools available to get the job done.

Natural light gives moods

Even amateur photographers know the simple rules of taking a picture. The camera must not be pointed against the sun and a flash must be used if the background is too dark. Professionals have another technique to make this happen. There is the option to use natural light coming from the sun if it’s done on location or by using lights of different wattages to get the desired effect.

There are two kinds available. The first is called a hot light. Literally, this means using lamps that are very hot. The advantage of using this type of equipment is that you will be able to get the required brightness.

The problem is that such has been proven to be an inconvenience to the photographer and the models since both will sweat and it is hard to do a photo shoot under such conditions. The props used may also melt which is hard to replicate. This brings the second option which is using cold light. This is very similar like the flash normally found in the camera. There are many brands available that are either heavy or lightweight. You should make sure that the system is compatible with the camera since these devices cost a lot which can help produce better shots in the long run.

Diffusers also help in lighting. They can be adjusted to certain angles to get the right shot. People once used umbrellas to make this work but this has changed to a soft box that diffuses the rays from the lamps.

Lighting is key when it comes to photography and can all be purchased from a specialty store. You should get the models out and only buy those that are known brands since this will assure that you get quality shots in the long term.

Shoot more learn more!

Why is Photography popular?

Wednesday, September 28th, 2011 at 7:05 am  
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One hobby that will never go out of date is photography. It’s simply because it captures moments that the human mind can’t store vividly for long. It immortalizes scenes that are otherwise easily forgotten.

Fun to start capturing life!

If one wishes to indulge him/herself in this kind of past time or even as a profession, it will be indispensable to acknowledge the help of not only the technical know-hows of photography but also the elements and accessories of the device that makes things happen — the camera.

There three elements in a camera:

1. The optical elment or the lens
2. The chemical element or the film. For Digital, the storage and the post processing using software
3. The mechanical element or the body of the camera

It is the calibration of these elements that makes the recording of the images possible.

From the analog cameras, technology brought about its modern counterparts the digicams or digital cameras. With more advance features and a wide array of accessories, they make the hobby more accessible even to the most novice of photographers.

The difference between a digital camera and an analog one is that with the latter, the images are stored in digital format. With that format, the image can be previewed before it gets developed. Printing pictures from a digital camera is a lot more convenient too. There are also limitless ways to process images using popular software.

What are the current hot camera accessories? It is always fun to add on things that enhance your photography. These include the following:

Electronic flashes
Flashes are for the vivid exposure of an image onto a film strip. Through the emission of a good amount of light with the release of the shutter, the film is exposed enough with the adequate amount of illumination. These accessories are particularly used for indoor photography or when one has to take pictures after dark.

Storage devices
Storage devices back were not able to be removed. Nowadays, digicams are endowed with flash memory devices, i.e., memory sticks, smartmedia cards, and compact flash cars.

Batteries
Digital cameras are now equipped with either rechargeable batteries or disposable ones. The non-rechargeable batteries include the lithium and alkaline types, while the rechargeable batteries are known to be in the form of lead-acid, NiCd and LiOn batteries.

Other accessories include a camera bag or case, tripod, and straps.

It is not enough to know the accessories and elements of a camera. One must also learn how to use them properly and how to maintain them for their longest use for the enjoyment of this popular hobby known as photography.

 

Shoot more, learn more

bruce

Travel Photography

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 at 2:23 pm  
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Tips on Capturing Moments in Travel

Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Capturing those precious and exciting moments is even more pleasurable, especially if it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip. For the photo enthusiast, taking pictures of everything in sight is as important as going to these places.

So how can you exercise good travel photography? Here are some tips:

1. Choosing the right variety of camera
Purchasing the perfect camera can be as hard as deciding where to go on a vacation. A primary consideration for travel photography is whether to get a single lens reflex camera or a SLR, or a point-and-shoot type. They each has their own benefits and disadvantages.

In SLR, lenses can be interchanged. A photographer can view exactly what the lens is seeing because of its reflex viewing system. Point-and-shoot, meanwhile, have viewfinders that adjust the view of the image automatically. They are easier to use than the SLR, but its viewing range is a bit limited.

2. Selecting the right kind of media

The dilemma in choosing the right kind of media can be solved by determining the output desired and the traveling conditions in which the pictures will be taken. You need to choose between a color negative or a color side if you want to take colored pictures on film. The benefit of using a color negative is that it tends to be forgiving of corrections in color or errors of exposure. Professional photographers, however, go for slide films because almost all commercial reproducing is produced from transparencies. However, in today’s digital world, it is the storage, how much you need and what format. The important thing is your after camera work.

3. Researching for the triptake good notes
Knowing the right information about the place your visiting is as important as shooting the pictures. Planning the trip in detail enables the photographer to improve on the quality and quantity of opportunities where he can take great pictures. It is essential to read before a trip. Browse through materials such as travel guides, magazines, maps and newspapers. Also, try to talk to someone who has actually been their. The information that they can give will be very valuable.

4. The right way in creating a travel journal
The pictures taken during a trip should tell a story, and should not be just a jumble of random pictures. It should chronicle the trip from start to finish. It is important to track the dates that the pictures were taken.

One should not turn down the experience of travel, just the same, as one should not forget to capture precious images from that trip. Perfect planning and having a keen eye for a good image can be the key to achieving everything.

Shoot more, learn more

bruce

Why not do portraits shots?

Tuesday, September 20th, 2011 at 3:19 am  
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Five great points to shoot that Portrait

credit : http://www.myrtlebeachphotography.com

 

Portrait photography is the most popular form of photography. Most people who know how to point and shoot a camera are all portrait photographers. However, there are of course, differences in its quality. Professional portrait photographers have certain characteristics that let them get the best out of their subjects. A portrait photo does not only mean a person’s image. In a way, it shows character and emotion. If you want to start shooting portraits and don’t know the essential elements, fear no more because these five tips can give you a head start.

Rapport

Building rapport with your subject is the firs thing that you should learn. Interest in knowing your subjects is a plus. If you get to know your subject and they know you, your they will become more comfortable in front of the camera. When the shoot comes, you have better chances of getting the best natural expressions of the people you are photographing.

Personality

Always make sure that your photos will show the personality of your subject. You will only know this if you know the person. Make sure that their personality shows in their faces. Personality usually appears when the subject is not expecting a shot, so you have to be ready to take the picture when the opportunity comes.

Lighting

Most photographers prefer natural lighting. However since you want to emphasize the person’s face and character, you should always consider using artificial lighting. Be sure that light is evenly distributed, or that it satisfies the angle that you want to emphasize. Lighting can have a great effect especially if your they want a serious picture.

Background

Most portraits have light backgrounds to emphasize the subject. You can also use the environment to add more character to your subject. Also, be sure that the colors of your background and the dress of your subject compliment each other. Sometimes backgrounds become the flaw of a picture because the photographer took it for granted.

Plan

Be sure that you are ready before you go to the photo shoot. Not only that you have all the equipment that you need, but be sure that you can handle the job properly. Prepare all the necessary materials and be sure to bring a good topic for conversation so that your subject can relax while you are shooting.

Portrait photography is a really enjoyable hobby. If you’re serious in making it your career, you can be sure that it can be lucrative as long as you perfect your craft. However, remember that you should have the heart for the job because portrait photography’s first requirement is interest.

So give it a try, portrait photography is fun and can be very satisfying to do!

Shoot more , Learn more.

bruce

More photography tips

Thursday, September 15th, 2011 at 8:15 am  
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Photography Tips that Will Help Anyone Take Pictures Like A Pro

Photography has come along way since the days of the daguerreotypes, which was the early type of device used to take photographs. You know the ones, with a boxlike instrument on three legs…

Old style effects

Nowadays, with the advent of technology photography has become much easier and extremely accessible. Plus the quality of the pictures that can be produced have also increased significantly.

Practically anyone can purchase a camera and start taking pictures by framing a subject and clicking away at the button; especially with the use of a digital camera which offers an array of functions that allow you to perform various tasks. This includes taking instantaneous pictures. Digital cameras can also store images which you can later put into your computer, which then you may print, distribute to your friends via email, or upload on your website.

But to those who take photography seriously and view photography as more of an art form; taking photographs is not just a matter of clicking at a button to take pictures. To them this task requires more planning and effort.

Here is a list of tips for taking better pictures

  1. When shooting outdoors during bright, sunny, days it would be best to use a flash. This will get rid of the shadows that sometimes appear on the faces of subjects on photographs.
  2. Choose a pleasing backdrop, preferably something that suits the atmosphere you want to create. For more serious photographs, a subtle backdrop that is not too distracting is best.
  3. When taking outdoor photographs you have to make sure you pay attention to what’s happening around you. This way strangers don’t mysteriously appear in group shots!
  4. Give directions when taking photographs. There is nothing wrong with giving out directions when taking award winning shots! Especially for those group shots for special occasions, such as a wedding pictorial. You want to make sure you have a lasting souvenir of this event that everyone can look back on fondly. Instruct people to smile, ask them to fix their hair if it’s unruly, etc.
  5. When taking outdoors shots photographers should avoid going head to head with the sun. This makes the people in the picture appear as if they are enshrouded in shadows!
  6. Take candid shots! This is a more exciting alternative to dull, boring, posed shots. During parties try to take pictures of friends and family while they are at ease and just having a great time.

Anyone can take great pictures, with just a little bit of patience and a lot of practice. You can make those precious fleeting moments of everyday life lasts a lifetime.

shoot more, learn more!
bruce

Some Basic Tips

Monday, September 12th, 2011 at 4:19 am  
Comments (4)

Over the weekend, I sat in on a photography class at a local community club. The guest speaker gave some interesting ideas and what photos are meant to do.

In the print media, pictures are used to break the monotony of a news page. Illustrations may be used as page decoration. If its only purpose is to create a favorable impression for the reader, it’s a valid function. After all, according to J.W. Click and Russel N. Baird’s book, “Magazine Editing and Production,” people hang paintings and photos on their walls for aesthetic reasons only.

Given that concept, one can surmise that photography is, indeed, a work of art captured in technicalities and presented in an exceptional manner. The total impression on the subject will always depend on the way the photographer wants to present his or her subject matter.

For this reason, special classes in photography are always available for those who wish to perfect their skills as far as becoming better in photography is concerned. However, there are some basic tips that every budding photographer must know in order to succeed in this kind of endeavor.

Just 3 points...

Here is a list of some of the important pointers that every photographer should know:

  1. Get ready -  The key to good shots is to have all of your necessary materials ready. One of the basic skills needed in photography is the point and shoot. However, you can’t do this if you lack the materials that you need such as extra batteries (in case you run out of battery supplies), a tripod (for a steady footing), and other devices like the lenses that would aid your ability to incorporate the point and shoot skill. Besides, you would not want to be wasting your time rummaging through your bag to find those additional lenses just to get a close up shot of your subject. Aside from time-consuming, your subject might lose interest or if it is a moving object, it might not stay longer than you have expected.
  2. Be steady with your camera – One of the main reasons why pictures may come out blurred is the fact that some photographers can’t get a steady hand on their cameras. It would be better to avoid shaking your camera. If you really can’t avoid these, it would better to use a tripod or inserting your elbows to your sides so that you get a stable grip.
  3. Focus on your subject – By attending some photography classes, you should be able to learn how to get the best angles to capture your subject. Just keep in mind to focus on your subject and not on anything else.

These are just some of basic tips that you will learn in a photography class. It is just 3 points, but they can mean a big difference in the results that you want. Every photographer is ALWAYS on the look out for a photo opportunity. Just keep them in mind and you are on your way to your best shot.

Shoot more, Learn more!

bruce

How a digital camera works

Thursday, September 8th, 2011 at 9:37 am  
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How a Digital Camera Works

Digital cameras come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. Different brands of digital cameras also offer users an array of features designed to make each and every shot fantastic. Despite the numerous features offered by digital cameras, manufacturers still manage to create products that are simple enough for a child to use.

This a an Olympus PEN camera

Day by day digital cameras are becoming a well-known fixture in most homes across the globe. In fact, most of the people around the world own one and use it on a regular basis. Digital cameras have also been incorporated into a variety of technical gadgets that have been integrated into the lifestyle of people everywhere.

PDA devices as well as cellular phones are just some of the technological devices that have a digital camera feature. Despite being an add-on feature, the digital camera device installed in these gadgets fair relatively well compared to detached models.

As a matter of fact the memory used for digital cameras, detached models or otherwise, can easily be upgraded using memory cards. The added memory will certainly come in handy because most digital cameras can also be used to take video clips.

There are numerous brands of digital cameras available on the market today. Mainstream electronic brands like Nikon, Kodak, Canon and Olympus are just some of the manufacturers of conventional 35mm cameras who have jumped on the bandwagon to create their own lines of digital cameras. Other famous brands that manufacture digital cameras include Panasonic, Casio and Sony.

Basic Features of Digital Cameras to Consider

Regardless of brand names, digital cameras have the same basic features that any consumer should know and consider before buying one. Even though digital cameras are generally a point and shoot device, certain features can often single out a particular brand or model. A good example of this is the term megapixel, which became known when digital cameras were introduced in the market.

Megapixels, which means millions of pixels, measure the quality and size of a digital camera. Pixels refer to the dots that make up a picture. Therefore a digital camera that has about a 5-megapixel resolution will produce better quality pictures compared to a 3-megapixel digital camera.

Moreover, photos taken with a digital camera that offers greater megapixels can be enlarged safely without sacrificing the quality of the picture. Average digital cameras with less than 3 megapixels often forfeit the clarity of the picture once it is enlarged. Unfortunately, there is a downside to using a digital camera with greater megapixels as they consume more of the camera’s memory.

The zoom function of a digital camera is another feature that most consumers should consider. There are generally two types of zoom features for many of the digital cameras on the market today. The optical zoom feature is common in devices without permanent lenses. The user can simply zoom and focus on the subject to be photographed.

A digital zoom feature is similar to using an editing software program for images. In most cases, a digital camera may offer both types of zoom features. Most digital camera users recommend concentrating on the optical zoom feature to validate the quality of the device.

What to Look for In a Digital Camera

A digital camera generally has an LCD screen. This wide screen replaces the small aperture in conventional cameras through which you look into before taking the shot. The LCD screen allows the photographer to view the picture while taking it to see how it would appear in reality.

Digital cameras have memory stick slots where memory sticks are inserted. Unfortunately, memory is another major consideration that many consumers often overlook. For the most part it is because digital cameras that require larger memory can be quite expensive.

Nikon DSLR

On the whole, many of the digital cameras of today make use of rechargeable batteries. Consumers should check if the particular brand they wish to purchase comes with a charger. If not, then you need to purchase it separately.

Downloading pictures taken with the digital camera is another factor that need to be considered. In most cases, many digital cameras can easily be connected to a desktop computer using a USB port. Through this connection, a user may download the pictures taken with the camera into the computer’s hard drive for printing or editing.

Hope this helps you understand the digital camera?

bruce

Photography as a Pastime

Tuesday, September 6th, 2011 at 3:46 am  
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Photography is considered as one of the rare hobbies that you can easily learn. Some may think that there’s a trick in taking great shots. However, there are certain elements that you need to consider in order to enjoy the hobby of capturing wonderful pictures.

With the exception of video cameras, there is nothing greater than capturing precious moments in photographs. They preserve those moments you are part of. You may enjoy those memories captured with your family, friends, and events and you can even share it with them.

All you need is a camera and time

To enjoy this hobby, you need to first learn the skills and techniques of photography. You can undertake training in technical skills to master the art of capturing photographs. You also need to consider acquiring different materials you will need to enjoy this wonderful hobby. Here are some beginner tips for learning photography.

1. Get to know what interests you. Focus yourself on a particular topic so that you can fully understand your chosen subject. It is important to have full knowledge on the subjects you want to photograph.

2. You may invest in a self-focusing SLR with the newest features with all the whistles and bells. You may also get an automatic focus camera that can read details on every captured subject.

3. If you choose to venture into nature photography, it is important to consider the location of shots. Make sure to that sunlight will not affect any of your shots. Position yourself behind the sun so that it will be use for lighting to create clearer shots.

4. Practice taking photos in your home or in your backyard. You can capture images that are not within your subject. Sometimes you may even create great shots on unexpected and unplanned moments.

5. It is advised to take photos steadily using a tripod. You can produce great images when you use the right angles. It is very important to pay attention to the size, shape and position of the subject

6. When there is no available sunlight on the subject, you must have artificial lighting to support the brightness and color of the photograph. Although the camera has a flash, it is sometimes insufficient in supplying the needed light in creating a clear image.

These are only some guides for you to enjoy photography as a hobby. You may enjoy capturing images as long as you have the right materials and good technical skills. Many believe that beginners taking photography as a hobby can end up professional photographers.

shoot more, learn more!

bruce

I love Nature!

Wednesday, August 24th, 2011 at 5:08 am  
Comments (2)

There is a real sense of calm and peace whenever I get to nature. Somehow I feel the connectedness with the trees, water, animals, insects and mother nature.

Shooting Nature is one of my most enjoyable pastimes and it gives me tremendous joy! But it can be quite a challenge! So here’s a guide for better nature photos!

Guide for better Nature Photos (Birds for example):

Gulls in flight

Photography is the art of creating a special medium beyond your self-expression. It requires good taste, good sense of appreciation and technical skills in capturing the subjects. Many believe that they can profit in this chosen field as long as they develop their technical skills and knowledge in becoming a talented professional photographer.

Nature photography has always been inspiring and exciting. It thrills every photographer with its mystery and the beauty of wildlife. One of the most amusing subjects for nature photographers are the birds.

Bird behavior has had great impact on pictures. Birds attract many photographers with their mastery of flight and their distinct diversity in nature. Here are some guides that will help you focus on improving your skill in capturing images on these magnificent creatures of nature.

  1. Shoot your interests: You need to know what interests your mind. You have to know your topics so that you will not be confused. You should learn more about birds by investing on a good birding guide. This will help you know more about their behavior, breeding season, and bird eating habits.
  2. No animal is harmed: You should always keep your subjects well being in mind. Avoid those instances that create stress on your images. If the bird is not in its natural behavioral characteristic, you should leave the bird alone and allow the bird to recover first from its stress. It can also be a sign that the bird might be nesting eggs somewhere near the site and that is why it portrays a “predator luring” behavior.
  3. Adapt to surroundings: You should make your vehicle as your just like your camera an accessory. In some areas, you may see birds more adapted to vehicles and consider your vehicle less harmless than a person positioned on his tripod trying to take a good shot. You should learn how to be patient in finding the right place where the birds can accept the presence of your vehicle.
  4. Fast shutter speeds: You may use fast shutter speeds cameras. This device is good in taking great bird images. Most birds are fast and can disappear quickly in the air. You may need a 1/500 second shuttering speed. This can capture sudden movements and flights.

As a nature photographer, you should maximize your surroundings. A good place for you to start your hobby in nature photography especially with birds is in your own backyard. You can then practice the art and techniques of capturing great shots and wonderful images that nature has to offer.

Remember patience, a long lens, stable tripod and a keen interest in your subject matter is the right approach1

Shoot more, learn more

bruce

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