Photo Workshop Notes cont.

Camera Uses

Camera phones: Probably only good enough for web use and on screen viewing. (to be investigated further).

Compact cameras: Use for ‘snaps’ and basic photography under good lighting conditions and where the subject is not moving quickly. Image/file size suitable for the web and for prints up to 7x5”. Camera limitations – unable to see precisely what you are taking due to LCD screen on back of camera, little creative control, focusing/exposure time lag, small file size on low end cameras.

Compact System Cameras: Use for ‘snaps’ and more creative situations where a small physical size camera is more convenient. Good for web and quality prints up to A4 size. Limitations – limited range of lens available.

Single Lens Reflex cameras: To achieve the best possible images, with full creative control in all situations. Limitations – Overall size and weight.

Picture Taking  (image capture)

Questions to ask before starting

What do I want to use the images for? – A record of a subject/thing/place or a creative image?

How is the image going to be used? – website, social media posting, print, Power Point?

Considerations before taking the photo

Does the photo/subject require good lighting? If not right can it be photographed at another time when the light is right? Or is it a subject that will change with time (such as a flower) or a place that can’t be revisited and therefore has to be shot even if conditions are not perfect – a record shot.

Could the use of flash help? Flash can be useful but has drawbacks and should only be used with consideration – flash can make some subjects look artificial but fill-in flash can help on a sunny day.

Is the subject moving? If so how fast? Can it be captured with the type of camera being used? There is usually a delay before the picture is taken with compact cameras, but not a problem with CSC and SLR’s if set up for moving subjects.

Can the camera be focused on the part of the photo that needs to be in focus? Does it matter? Knowing what is in focus with a compact camera can be difficult, not such a problem with CSC & SLR’s  (but difficult in bright light viewing the image with an LCD screen on the back of the camera).

If a ‘creative’ photo is required can it be taken with a compact camera knowing its limitations?

Camera shake leading to a blurred photo can be a problem with small sized cameras, but some do offer an ‘anti-shake’ option which can be set in the menu. Optical stabilization is offered on some better cameras either within the body or in the lens.

A blurred result is more likely when using the telephoto end of a zoom lens, especially if the subject is also moving. CSC & SLR’s can be set up to overcome these problems by using a faster shutter speed or mode such as a ‘sports’ setting.