Articles
Understanding Image Quality: Sharpness
February 16, 2007As a photographer, whether it be nature, landscape, portrait, whatever, you always aspire for that "tack sharp" image. Sharpness is one of the image quality factors that can really make an image stand out and is one of the most closely related factors to the amount of detail captured and rendered in an image. In this article we'll cover what sharpness is, how noise affects sharpness and some tried and true ways to make your images sharper, no matter what equipment you own.
View Comments (1)Understanding Depth of Field
January 21, 2007Depth of field is basically a range of distance around the focal plane (subject) that will produce an acceptably sharp image. It is important to understand what depth of field is and how to use it so that you can have further control over the final image you are trying to capture. It is a very powerful tool and concept to know how to use and can help you capture that "pefect" shot. In this article we?ll cover what depth of field is and how it works, the variables involved in controlling depth of field and finally how to use it to your advantage. If you already know what depth of field is you can check out the Depth of Field Calculator to show you variations with different cameras and parameters.
Backup your Digital World
October 22, 2006How much are your pictures worth to you? Whether you are a professional, amateur or just someone who takes pictures of family and friends, each image is priceless. If you value your digital images, then you need to have a proper backup solution in place. In this article we'll take a look at some methods to store your photos, how serious the problem of lost digital photos really is and some backup tips so that you can be worry free and enjoy all of those priceless memories and photos now and in the future.
Understanding Exposure: Part 3
August 8, 2006ISO is the final piece of the exposure triangle. Understanding how ISO works will allow you to take shots where it normally wouldn't be possible without working knowledge of how ISO actually works. ISO is basically the light sensitivity of the camera's image sensor (or film). ISO is usually rated at 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 and even 3200. In this article we'll take a look at an easier way to think of ISO, how ISO can help with faster shutter speeds and ultimately how it affects your exposures.
Understanding Exposure: Part 2
July 15, 2006Shutter speed, another main factor of the mysterious exposure triangle, however the good news is that it is usually the easiest of the big 3 for beginners to master (it was for me anyway). Shutter speed can allow you to get a razor sharp shot freezing the action or the nice motion blurred image implying movement and motion. Whichever type of shot you are shooting, it is important to know how shutter speed works and how it's going to affect your overall exposure.
Understanding Exposure: Part 1
June 20, 2006Aperture, shutter speed and ISO, the big 3 that usually cause the most confusion early on. If you can get a grasp on how the big 3 work together to affect your exposures, taking pictures will be a much more pleasant experience and will have a lot less frustration. Once you understand it, it is like riding a bike. It may take some time and effort to learn, but once you learn it you won't forget it. The one that causes the most confusion out of the big 3 is usually aperture. Why? Well there's that sequence of numbers that seem to work backwards and that little matter of depth of field. Understand the big 3 and the rest will come much, much easier.
