The Basics of Digital Photography: Part 1

Before we get into this weeks blog, I need to make a few correction from the previous one. Mainly I'm only going to be posting a weekly blog about photography, not the fore mentioned twice a week. Reason for this is so I have enough stuff to write about. Now with that said, on with the blog.

The Basics of Digital Photography: Part 1

About two years ago, I gave a small presentation about digital photography at the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, and thought I would share the same material with you. Now don't you feel appreciated.

The following information will be presented in four parts and is intended for beginners or hobbyists.

I. The many kinds of cameras—digital & film
   A. The Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera
        1. Main advantage is creative control.
            a. Ability to change lenses and exposure settings.
            b. The camera most professionals use.
        2. Another advantage is a faster and more advanced
            sensor chip.
            a. Great for high-speed photos and crisper detail.
            b. Also has the ablility to clean dust particles for the mirror.
        3. Many levels available on the market today in various
            price ranges.
   B. Fixed Lens SLR camera
        1. Has some of the same features as a true SLR.
            a. Usually has creative modes and full manual modes.
            b. Cannot change lens and therefore reduces flexibility.
        2. Known to other professional photographers as a
            "point-n-shoot on steroids."
   C. The Point-n-Shoot camera
        1. A fully automatic camera with a myriad of specialized
            settings and functions.
            a. Scene Modes: landscape, portrait, night scene, macro, and
                various others depending on manufacturer.
            b. Usually gives control of image size.
            c. Some allow for different file formats:
                JPEG, TIFF, RAW, etc.
            d. There’s also a chance that the ISO and white balance
                can be changed.
        2. There is really not much room for creative photography
            unless you can think outside the scope of your camera.
            a. Lack of choosing aperture and shutter speed does not
               allow for either a greater depth of field or a
               shallow depth of field.
            b. Limited focal length and angle of photo due to the lack of
                lens changing. Although, there are lens attachments that
                can create a wide angle or telephoto feel.
        3. The sensor chip is typically not as fast as a SLR, but with
            current advancements in technologies it is quite robust.

Okay, that should get you started in choosing the right type of camera for you or give you some insights o the camera you already own. If you have any questions, leave comments and I will answer them.  Thanks for reading.