Thursday, December 22, 2011

Canon Lens Choice - Canon Telephoto Lens Or Normal Lens

I have come across some information that I thought was kind of confusing for those who are just getting their first Canon Digital SLR camera. There is some terminology that refers to a "normal" lens.

Canon Normal 50mm lens

Canon Telephoto lens (70-200 f/4.0L)

What is the difference in between a Canon Telephoto Lens and a Canon Normal Lens? Understanding the difference may help as you look to choose your next lens. However, it's also important to know which lens can serve your needs best in a given scenario.

Even if you are one of those who got a Canon digital SLR and never removed the kit lens, you can benefit from this info. (And, by the way, it is also time to take your camera off the Auto mode. However that conversation is for another day). If you are going to improve as a photographer, it's incumbent upon you to understand the abilities of the dslr camera along with the lenses and gear that goes with it.

A Canon standard lens is typically one of 35-50mm, with 35mm being the focal length that most directly matches what could be seen by the human eye without having any enhancements. Since the days of 35mm film photography, this has been a normal lens.

More recently, digital photographers have been employing the 50mm lens also as a standard lens. But this also comes with an clarification. Full frame cameras, such as those inside the Canon "Mark" series have a sensor that produces the exact same size photo as a 35mm film camera.

But you can find other dslr cameras that have scaled-down sensors. They are APS-C sensors, and they produce pictures which are magnified when compared to the full-frame sensors. In fact, they're increased by a element of 1.6x. With one of these types of cameras (a Rebel can be a very good illustration), a 50mm lens performs just like a 80mm and is now not normal. Likewise, a 35mm is more like a 56mm, which expands the "normal" definition.
This photo of Colby was taken with what may be considered a "normal" zoom lens at 53mm with my Canon Rebel T3i. Since the Rebel is a crop-sensor camera, 53mm is equivalent to 85mm in 35mm film terms. So, this is not technically a normal lens because 85mm falls into the medium telephoto range.


Telephoto is somewhat easier to clarify and comprehend. A Canon telephoto lens is one that captures the picture so that it seems to be bigger than what the human eye will see when standing in the exact same spot as the camera. Fundamentally, anything longer than 50mm is telephoto. In the instance of any crop sensor (APS-C) camera, 50mm has become telephoto, simply because, keep in mind, it performs like the equal of 80mm.

Canon telephoto lenses are generally deemed medium telephoto up to around 200mm, following which they're super telephoto.

By the way, it was once typical that a lens was as lengthy as the focal length designation. For example, a 200mm lens was literally 200mm long. Currently, because of the way the elements of glass are designed into the housing of the lens, it isn't any longer necessary for them to be that lengthy. This can be very obvious when you check out some telephoto zoom lenses that don't physically extend if the focal length is elevated.

When it comes to zoom, there are numerous extremely best-selling Canon telephoto lenses that zoom in through focal lengths. And some actually zoom from wide angle to telephoto (moving through the "normal" range as they do).

Now that you understand what the distinction is between the kinds of focal lengths, you have to make a decision which focal length is the one that is suited for your digital photography wants. Or, maybe a zoom lens is right for you to ensure that you can cover a dynamic variety of focal lengths because the needs change.

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Is It Possible To Make Money With A Canon Rebel?

A Good Canon Rebel Lens Will Help You Get Started


family photo with Canon Rebel lens
Family photos with your Canon Rebel lens are always a favorite
Looking for a good excuse to purchase that new Canon Rebel lens? This may be just what the doctor ordered. If you have a Canon Rebel digital SLR camera and enjoy taking pictures, chances are you have thought about making some extra cash with your photos. Digital photography as a hobby, is becoming more and more popular, and it's true that most people today have a digital camera. It is not hard to take your hobby to the next level, with the right knowledge and some creative energy. There are several different ways that you can use your camera to make money.

All you have to do is put together a little creativity and showmanship along with some salesmanship, and you can begin making money with your images.

How To Make Money With Your Digital Camera

Assuming that you are already a photography enthusiast, you may have the camera and accessories at hand to start. Naturally a camera is necessary, but the best one would be a digital SLR camera such as a Canon Rebel or even a more professional DSLR. A tripod is also important and an excellent printer or photo printing service.

In addition to the camera and accessories, you will need photo editing software. Adobe Photoshop is the absolute best in image editing software, but Corel also has a good product titled Paint Shop Pro.

It's important to recognize one thing before moving on. Do not be discouraged by those who say that making money in photography is too hard because just about everybody has a digital camera these days. While this is definitely true, you will be surprised at the number of people who do not know how to use that camera to get good quality pictures. They are willing to hire you to take those pictures for them!

Taken with a Canon Rebel T3i and Canon Rebel Lens - Sigma 105mm macro
Pet photos are a great way to get started
Take a look at the images many people take. To be honest here; their pictures stink (excuse my French, but it really is true). Most people take photos that suffer from several issues like motion blur, sorry color, and badly posed subjects among other things. They do not comprehend the first thing about good composition. They do not understand the effects of lighting and flash, so you will find (blank) harsh shadows on the subject in the picture. Their photos are typically so awful they can't even be repaired with Photoshop.

Printing is an additional issue for most folks. Since the photographs are improperly done to begin with, the prints are also of poor quality. The individual who shot the images did not have a hint with regards to how you can use the camera settings to get the right resolution for publishing.

But, guess what? This can be just what gives an superb opportunity to step up and offer your services. Because you have the abilities needed to get very good pictures, all you've to do is supply some examples to demonstrate your abilities, and you may have gained a new customer!

Success - You Can Do This!

If you are still undecided about whether or not you can break into the "photography for cash" marketplace, pay attention to this. It happened to somebody who was considering whether or not she could generate income with her photography. She went to a little party, a special event for a friend's promotion. The host of the party had arranged for the girl to take a few pictures.

Many of the party guests had their very own cameras, and a few of them were even taking photos at the beginning. Yet as the celebration got started, these people ended up having such a good time they forgot about getting photos. And most of those photographs that they did get were just not really good.

Soon after the party, the photographer received a modest fee for her services. The plan was to print several proofs for that host as well as print a specific quantity of pictures. But she additionally uploaded the images she took to her web site and sent a web link to the photos to each of those that went to the get together. She received quite a few requests for images from those who came to the function, and all she had to do was permit those that wanted photographs to down load and print them. Piece of Cake!

It turned out to be quite a profitable outing for the photographer, and she didn't even have to bother with printing or delivering the pictures.

It became a life-changing get together for that young photographer.

But it's not unique. Anybody is capable of doing this! And it's even simpler if you get that new Canon Rebel lens you have been wanting. Develop a strategy, increase your confidence and photography abilities, and begin snapping!

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

My Pro Friends Laughed When I Told Them About The Canon Rebel T3i


"Seriously, why would anyone with years of digital SLR experience get a Canon Rebel T3i?"
That was the question one of my professional friends at the camera club asked. 
"Are we really comparing a Canon 60D vs T3i?"
But, why not?
I could have taken this with a Canon 60D, but I used the Rebel T3i
After all, the new EOS Rebel has many of the same perks and benefits as the 60D.
  • It has the same 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor.
  • It has the same DIGIC 4 image processor.
  • It has the exact same 3" LCD panel that swivels for use at weird angles.
  • The ISO settings are also identical - 100 to 6400 and can be expanded to 12800.
  • Both can have external flash units with wireless firing (plus Sync connector).
  • The new Rebel also has the same video recording capabilities at HD 1080p with stereo sound.

By the time I got through this list, my friend had a different take on my camera.
(Did I mention that he is a professional photographer, and, even though he had heard about the new entry-level camera, he had not paid too much attention to it?)
Macro photos using the T3i are so
easy with Live View and 10x Zoom
Quite honestly, I was ready for a new camera when the T3i came out. Before the release of the Rebel, I was seriously thinking about either a 60D or a 7D. My first preference was the Canon EOS 7D, but after a short discussion with my better half, I made a quality decision to preserve my marriage. The Rebel costs half as much, and this is a major consideration right now given our present financial situation (details about this shall remain private).
Having mentioned the 7D, I will point out that it also has the same image sensor as the other two cameras. But there are some other major differences that would put me in that ball park if I was making money from my photography addiction.
But back to the comparison between the Canon Rebel T3i and the 60D.
I pointed out to my friend that there were indeed some differences. I mean, there would be no reason to produce two identical cameras.
On the side of the 60D:
  • Better continuous shooting rate at 5.3 frames per second vs 3.7.
  • The body is environmentally sealed.
  • Shutter speeds go as high as 1/8000 sec vs 1/4000 sec.
  • View finder shows 0.95 of the image vs 0.85.
  • Battery will last for about 1100 pictures vs 440. 
So, I have to admit that there is reason to consider the 60D for these added benefits. What I had to think about (again, my spouse's influence) - are these benefits worth the extra $200 I would have to shell out?
    I opted for the Rebel rather than the 60D.
    Did I mention that the T3i has some creative options that are brand new to any camera in the Canon Digital SLR line-up? More on that later, perhaps.

    Tuesday, September 13, 2011

    Better Photos From Better Cameras – Digital SLR Cameras For New Photographers

    New Photographers of all ages are
    getting mid-range DSLR cameras
    Digital single lens reflex cameras (aka DSLR) are the newest rage in photography. While they have always been the choice of professionals, recent camera buyers are choosing these types of cameras much more frequently. All major manufacturers have models available, but the most popular brands are Nikon and Canon. Mid-range DSLR cameras can be purchased for about $1500. This is a real bargain when you consider prices only a few years ago were much higher. Right now, you can get one of the budget models for about $600.

    How Many Megapixels?

    If you have followed the trends in digital photography, you know that the size of image sensors has found a happy medium after a few years of intense competition, starting at 6-megapixels and increasing to the present day 14-18 megapixel sensors. Currently, if you get a camera with a 14-megapixel sensor, you will have plenty of “pixel-power” to produce images of the finest quality at just about any size for hanging on your wall.

    In addition, features and settings have improved tremendously. Video is now a common feature and it usually comes with stereo sound and full HD quality. There are creative features and additional mode settings so that you can choose a photo style that will give you a finished photo with a professional look. This simply means that you can shoot your pictures and practically eliminate the post processing that was previously needed to get your images to wow your audiences.

    Lens Choice

    Lizard shot with Sigma 105 Macro Lens for Canon
    Of course, the one thing that most new buyers state as their top reason for buying a mid-range DSLR camera is the flexibility that comes with interchangeable lenses. Lens choice can make a night-and-day difference in the outcome of a photo shoot. If you want to take more professional looking portraits, you can choose a lens just for that purpose. If, on the other hand, your goal is to get much better at nature photography, you would choose a different lens. The beauty is that the lenses go on the same camera. It is true that the lenses can actually cost as much or more than the unit you attach them to, but even if you can’t afford the biggest and best at first, you can build your kit as time goes on. And if you discover at a later time that macro photography is the way you want to go, again, the macro lens is all you need.

    You may wonder if getting a lens that is more expensive than the camera is a good investment. The answer is, yes. This is a decision you will have to make as your skills develop. But experts agree that the lens is as important as the camera.

    And the most important of all is the one who is holding all this fabulous equipment. You will have to develop your knowledge and skill to reach your goal of taking better pictures. If you don’t study and practice, you may as well just keep taking pictures with your old point and shoot model or your cell phone.

    Thursday, July 21, 2011

    Canon PowerShot SX230 HS - All-in-one Digital Camera


    If you are currently a devotee of Canon compact cameras, this may be "preaching to the choir." Even so, should you are shopping for an outstanding vacation camera, the Canon PowerShot SX230 HS might possibly be the ultimate fit for your pocket.

    Since the SX230 is somewhat larger than the more compact models, perhaps "pocket camera" might be pushing somewhat towards larger pockets such as those in cargo pants, but this PowerShot camera would be a pretty neat fit for anyone with extra room in their pockets or a ladies handbag. Dimensions are actually 4.2x2.4x1.3 in. and it has a weight of merely 7.7 oz.

    PowerShot SX230 HS Improvements


    Canon PowerShot SX230 HS sample image
    Canon PowerShot SX230 HS sample image from Cameralabs.com - click the photo to go to their photostream.
    Some of the things which will truly grab your attention might possibly be the new, impressive improvements to this digital camera.

    To begin with will be the basis for the latest identify. You might recall that previous models in this particular set of digital cameras had an "IS" at the end in the camera name. This was because of Image Stabilization included in the camera engineering. Currently, newly designed engineering has bestowed upon this camera an "HS" at the close of its identify. The engineers have improved the CMOS sensor at the same time as the DIGIC 4 image processor within the camera and added greater efficiency in the manner these two important parts of the camera communicate with one another to produce far better images and shot processing.

    Using the HS process, the camera will manage pictures in a much more effective means in order to provide much better minimal light photos. The camera processes low light conditions in a different way than its predecessors, resulting in faster shutter speeds along with more light hitting the sensor, subsequently rendering superior, substantially less noisy pictures.

    Yet another exciting element is the in-camera GPS program. This will enable you to take a picture from your excursion using your camera, which includes the exact spot every single image was snapped.

    Yet one more enhancement comes in the form of video. The Canon PowerShot SX230 HS offers full HD video at 1080p and 30 fps. Furthermore, it has an item named "Dynamic IS" in video shooting. It is image stabilization whilst making digital movies.

    Camera dials and buttons on the SX230 appear far more professional as the manufacturer has located the mode dial, function wheel, along with other controls buttons on the back of your camera.

    With respect to control, this camera permits you, the photographer, to take matters directly into your own hands, only if you would like to. In case your wish would be to set the camera on Auto and stay totally free to compose and shoot, you are going to most likely be quite pleased with the results. That's just due to the "Smart Auto" stop on the setting dial. It really is straightforward - set it and forget it!

    The Canon PowerShot SX230 HS provides all the necessary the elements of a great all-in-one camera. It's ideal as a general family camera or for vacations and excursions. It takes incredible still images and video too.
    To see more about this digital camera click on http://digital-photographic-resources.com/.

    Sunday, July 17, 2011

    Canon 60D or Nikon D7000 - Mid Level Digital SLR Comparison

    Do you think camera manufacturers have "sleepers" that lurk about inside the other camera labs? Do major producers pay for insider information? In the Canon 60D VS Nikon D7000 comparison, it definitely seems that this could just be the issue. Or is it a cleverly devised plot to confuse the camera buying public?





    Mysteriously enough, both digital cameras came out within a few days of each other. Features and camera specs are so close that it wouldn't be far fetched to suppose that the same team or person came up with the spec list and issued it to both production labs. Do you think Canon and Nikon outsource their design to the same company? That would make clear the uncanny way the two cameras are nearly identical.

    Are there any differences, and are these differences enough to make or break a deal for you? We shall deal with this question now.

    Naturally, there are differences. Here is a short list of things that are different about the two cameras.

    1. Image Resolution - a bare 2-megapixel difference. This is scarcely enough to break a sweat over comparing 18.0 mp or 16.2 mp.

    2. LCD Display - The D7000 has a good LCD panel at 3" and excellent resolution, but the Canon 60D has the very desirable fully-articulating 3" LCD screen.


    3. Flash modes - The Nikon D7000 has two extra flash modes not included on the Canon. These modes are rear curtain flash and slow sync flash. They can be somewhat handy for more advanced flash photography.


    4. Focus points - 9 focus points on the Canon VS 39 on the Nikon. However, not all 39 points are cross-reference focus points. Actually, they both have 9 cross-type focus points.


    5. Burst Rate or Continuous Shots - although there is a difference here, it is really miniscule, 5.3fps vs 6.0fps. It is hardly worth mentioning.

    6. Camera Build - This one is definitely a difference. Truth be told, this particular feature could be a deal breaker for some. The fascinating thing is that both manufacturers went in different directions . For Canon, the new 60D is made of polycarbonate plastic, however the camera it is replacing, the 50D was built out of magnesium alloy metal. The Nikon D7000, on the other hand is made of magnesium alloy, but the older D90 was constructed with plastic. Very peculiar, huh? Perhaps a memo got lost somewhere? But, positively for both models, it must be pointed out that both are weather sealed for protection.

    A few other differences are present, but they are somewhat subtle, and they are also unique to that model.

    Image quality has been a key component of each upgrade, no matter which manufacturer you consider. This is apparent in both models. You may get a difference of opinion depending on which forum you visit about whether Canon or Nikon is the best. One photographer will contend that Nikon is the master when taking pictures of nature, and Canon is best for portrait photography. You may even hear it the other way around.

    Actually you must weigh the features individually and decide which digital SLR will best serve your individual photography needs and desires.

    Price has not been mentioned yet, and it is actually a major point. Price fluctuates, and it is contingent on which day and which store you are visiting, this includes online stores as well as brick and mortar stores.

    Find out more about the 60D VS D7000, including features and benefits by visiting http://digital-photographic-resources.com.

    Happy Shooting!

    Monday, June 13, 2011

    Cheerful Lake @ Mountain Park, GA

    A quaint little place, Mountain Park is hidden in the midst of the Atlanta metropolitan area. It is about 30 minutes north of Atlanta, just next to Roswell.
    We go there occasionally just to take pictures of the lake, the flowers, and the water fowl.
    Today was a perfect day to shoot a few images. Well, any day is a perfect day for shooting, but here are a few from my most recent photo shoot there.
    hydrangea
    brush-flower
    ducks
    dock

    Friday, June 10, 2011

    Canon Rebel T3i VS T3 - Canon's Newest Entry-level DSLR Comparison

    Rebel T3i - soccer action
    Canon has two new beginner's Digital SLR cameras, and shoppers need to be aware that they are quite different in spite of the similarities in name. Differences between the Canon Rebel T3i and the Canon Rebel T3 are very obvious, even to the newest photographer.

    In this report, we will look at the Canon Rebel T3i vs T3.

    To start with a bit from the past, several years ago, there was a similar release when Canon produced the Rebel XSi along side the XS. Back then, as today, the only deviation was an itty-bitty "i". Entry-level Digital SLR camera buyers have been buying the Rebel XS in record numbers.

    This is the reason the Rebel T3 isn't truly a rival of the T3i, rather it is an upgrade to the older XS, and it should be thought of as the most basic of Digital SLRs. It will unquestionably give the inexperienced entry-level camera buyer years of digital image gratification without all the extras of more sophisticated models.

    Canon Rebel T3



    Inside the T3, the hardware is just what you need to make those amazing images you've always dreamed of, despite the fact that this is not a feature-packed model. The missing bells and whistles won't be much of a concern to most first-time camera buyers anyway.

    Here are just a few of the "included" features of the T3 that will make this a great camera choice:

    1. The new and improved image sensor is plenty large enough at 12.2 megapixels. This is a major improvement over the Rebel XS in terms of size and quality.

    2. Video ability has now been included which was not available in the XS. While it doesn't quite match up to the T3i, it is still a robust component of the T3 at HD 720p.

    3. Creative options that allow for in-camera image enhancements such as "soft-focus" or "grainy black and white" plus a few more.

    4. The new Feature Guide is yet another great new feature. The Feature Guide shows a short description of the selected feature, making it much easier to navigate to the setting you want.

    Canon Rebel T3i w/ swivel LCD
    Some of the features in the T3i that are not included in the T3:

    1. An 18-megapixel CMOS image sensor
    (the same one as in the more expensive 60D and 7D).

    2. A 3" swivel LCD panel with better resolution, which is very handy for taking video and still shots from difficult angles.

    3. If you are one who is looking for video, the T3i has a full 1080p video package with stereo sound and the capability of off-camera mic.

    4. Continuous shooting for sports and action is much better at 3.7 fps, and it can store many more shots.

    In general, the build quality is the same for both cameras. With respect to the difference between the T3 and the T3i sensor, you can get really large images from both with the same quality. In the end, your personal expectations for your DSLR will be the determining factor, along with your budget.

    The Canon Rebel T3 is already becoming a favorite of new photographers in the Cheap Digital SLR category.
    You will want see a much better side-by-side comparison of the Canon Rebel T3i VS T3 before you make your final choice. It is available at http://canonrebelt3i600d.com/.

    Thursday, June 2, 2011

    Canon Rebel T3 - Top Value In A Cheap DSLR

    Cheap Digital SLR? The Canon Rebel T3 fits the description (and nearly everybody will agree). However, you still get high great value for your money, even though a second mortgage is not required to get one of these nifty little cameras.

    The Rebel T3 (not to be confused with the Rebel T3i is an upgrade of the fiercely popular Canon XS. When buyers started getting the word out about the XS model, it started flying off the shelves in huge numbers. In fact, it is still number one on Amazon's best seller list!

    This image of a flower taken by Jade with a Canon Rebel T3




    Leon posted this photo of his beautiful dog.


    Is Inexpensive An Indication Of Caliber?


    Part of the reason for popularity was that a new camera owner could get outstanding quality at a low cost, and that without a large investment of time to learn about the camera. In this writer's judgment, if you take the exact same inexperienced photographer, someone who is just getting into digital SLR photography, and put a $600 (Canon T3) camera in their mits, then set a $2700 (Canon 7D) camera in their hands, the images will be alike in quality.

    Different Digital SLR strokes for different folks.

    It seems we have entered a new era - the era of digital photography. Nowadays, there are many more who are passionate about photography. Nature, concerts, family interests, sports, street journalism, and just about any interest you can think of are reasons for people to upgrade to digital slr cameras.

    They want the best photos possible, therefore they are turning to digital SLRs. The most obvious choice for new photographers is an entry-level digital slr camera. Quality without complications (the complication of learning a new, high-powered camera system) is what they want.

    The Canon T3 is maintaining the custom of the XS in that a raw camera user can begin shooting with this camera right out of the box and get the splendid pictures they wished for.


    How is this camera better in terms of upgrades?

    The Rebel T3 has better "stuff" than its older sibling. The key technology of digital SLRs is better by leaps and bounds. The new 12-megapixel CMOS (vs 10-megapixels) sensor has better quality, plain and simple. Another item is video. Everyone expects it and uses it in their camera. Add to that the oodles of creative additions to the camera software, and you have a much better camera for all aspects of camera use.

    What about price?

    Are you aware that there are many digital SLR cameras for less than $600? Cheap digital SLR cameras are produced by every major manufacturer. The satisfaction this Rebel T3 will bring can make many people content for lots of years. Yet, for others, their 1st cheap DSLR is just a starting point. If that is you, make certain you study the options for expansion, including lenses and equipment add-ons.

    The Canon T3 is already becoming a favorite of new photographers in the Cheap Digital SLR category. It's definitely worth a look here: http://canonrebelt3i600d.com/compare-canon-rebel-t3i-vs-t3/.

    Tuesday, March 22, 2011

    Canon Rebel T3i (EOS 600D) - This Digital SLR Makes Creative Photography Easy

    Canon Rebel T3i/600D

    The new Canon Rebel T3i (aka 600D) digital camera has arrived on your dealer's shelves, and quite honestly, it is a camera for beginners who want creativity as a component in their photographic experience.

    What's New In The Canon Rebel T3i



    Looking out for the new photographer who is just getting into the digital SLR community, Canon has added some benefits to an already mighty package so that the Rebel T3i is very alluring, particularly if you have never handled a digital SLR camera.


    There are a couple of really excellent reasons that a majority of people give for purchasing their first digital SLR camera. First of all, everybody is aware that the image quality of a DSLR camera is superior to a compact digital camera. However, the ability to switch lenses is also an excellent motivation for buying a digital SLR camera.

    In the T3i you get most of the matching technology available in the older T2i, which includes the basic stuff like image sensor and processor. As a matter of fact, the only thing that "appears" different is the LCD screen. The T3i has added an articulating LCD screen similar to the one on the higher quality Canon 60D. For many, this enhancement alone is reason to buy the T3i.


    Creative Difference - Welcome Addition To The Rebel T3i

    The actual differences come in the camera software which has been tremendously enhanced with the addition of some very creative possibilities that are not available on any of the previous Rebel models. One of those new features is the "Green Square." On the top mode dial, there is a new button that is green, hence the name Green Square. When you set the camera on the Green Square, you basically give the camera Carte Blanche for control. The camera will make some very important decisions about light and sharpness to give you the very best picture possible. And you don't have to do anything except aim and shoot. Canon actually calls this new setting "Scene Intelligent Auto," which is the same as "Intelligent Auto" on some compact digital models.

    When set to Scene Intelligent Auto, the camera takes the guess work out of camera settings. You, the new camera owner, can take some awesome shots right from the start.

    Sounds great, right? But wait, there's more! There is now a Basic+ selection in the Quick Control screen when the mode dial is set to Basic Zone modes. There are two different options to choose from once you access the Basic+ screen. You can choose Ambiance settings or the Lighting/Scene Type settings. Once more, the camera softrware does all the thinking for you and makes you look like you know what you are doing.

    Knowing that this camera has all the same features as the more professional cameras should make the T3i very interesting to those who are considering their 1st digital SLR, especially if the hope of moving up to a more professional camera is the final goal.

    And because of the new creative features, you, the new DSLR photographer, will be able to learn the ins and outs of your new camera with comfort because you can experiment with the "pro settings" when you have the time and not when an excellent shot is essential.

    Canon has taken the pressure off by giving new photographers professional features and convenience.

    The Canon EOS 600D, aka Rebel T3i, gives you a great choice when it comes to beginning digital SLR photography. For further product review, go to www.canonrebelt3i600d.com.

    Saturday, March 12, 2011

    Beginner's Digital SLR Camera - Canon T3i Or T2i

    T3i Or T2i, That Is The Question

    Search Amazon.com for Canon Rebel T3i
    Canon has just added a twist to the determination to buy a Canon Rebel digital SLR camera. The question now is Canon Rebel T3i vs T2i.

    Is the Canon Rebel T3i genuinely an upgrade? That is the inquiry under consideration right now, and many reviewers are adding their opinion on the subject. Make sure you stick with this discussion in its entirety, because you will find that there are some subtle changes here that may sway your buying decision.

    Let's start with the main features. A couple of things that everybody looks at first are the image sensor and the processor, and these are the exact same in both digital SLRs. That implies that there will be no advantage for either when it comes to image quality.

    To go along with that, some of the other features for camera comparing are also identical. Two more features that have not changed are the video and ISO settings. The ability to capture 3.7 still frames per second has not changed either.

    The LCD panel is the one key difference that virtually all reviewers focus on. The new tilt-panel LCD screen is the one feature that everyone draws attention to first. It has been very popular on the Canon 60D, and it may just be what brings out your wallet, too, when it comes to the T3i.

    So a vari-angle LCD panel is indeed a big plus for the Canon Rebel T3i.

    Another improvement for the new model is the capability to fire multiple flashes remotely when taking a photo. Not every buyer of an entry-level DSLR is looking for the ability to use remote flashes, but with the T3i you have it (not with the T2i).

    Next, a word about video. For the first time, Canon has added "Movie Digital Zoom." With this feature, you can zoom in 3-10x and still get first-class quality video. Plus there is now full manual control of focus while capturing video.

    What About Creativity in the Canon Rebel T3i VS T2i Debate


    Those are some of the subtle differences, but maybe the biggest changes when comparing the Canon Rebel T3i vs T2i are in the camera software. The T3i has some very creative features for the new digital SLR photographer.

    First, there is a new video component that allows you to take short video clips and have them stitched together inside the camera. You take 2, 4, or 8 second clips, as many as you want, and the camera does the rest.

    Then there is Basic+. When you set your camera in this Basic+ mode, there are two choices for your creative output. They are "shooting by lighting or scene type, and shooting for "ambience."

    With the ambience setting, you set a kind of mood for your photo as the camera adjusts the sharpness, contrast, color and saturation for effect.

    If you choose the lighting or scene setting, there will be changes applied that are called Creative Filters that can result in 5 separate types of effects. These are Fish-eye, Miniature, Soft focus, Grainy Black and White, and Toy Camera.

    Saving the most helpful characteristic for last, many who are just getting started with digital SLR photography will value the Feature Guide that is now included in the Rebel T3i software. When you change the camera settings, the new choice is shown in the LCD window with a description of what that choice will do.

    The Canon Rebel T3i vs T2i debate boils down to some rather subtle differences in the feature set and one major upgrade in the hardware.

    See the two cameras side-by-side here ==> www.digital-photographic-resources.com/cameras/rebelT3iReview.html.

    Tuesday, January 11, 2011

    The Making Of A Photographer - Gear vs Creativity

    The "look" is photographer, but you must
    see the results before it's official.


    Trust me, I am not against photographers or photography classes. In truth, I am totally in favor of educating yourself as much as possible, particularly as it applies to photography. However, due to a recent change in attitude on my part, I must say this.

    Camera equipment does not a photographer make!

    That's it. I said it, and I'm sticking with it. Not too long ago, I was also a adherent to the concept that to be a photographer you had to own all the best gear. He must have a well equipped studio with all the special lights and backdrops, the underwater gear, access to an airplane to take the aerial shots.

    Wrong.

    Photography is not about gear. It's not about a degree from a university. Finally, photography is not some special gift.

    Photography is quite simply about capturing the light. It's about being able to snap the shutter at just the perfect time and from the correct place. Photography is about life.

    Right now, just consider the terrific photographs that moved you somehow, whether emotionally or spiritually. Those are the ones with life. Even the photographs of still objects that attract you do it by stirring you emotionally. They stir up the life inside of you.

    These kinds of pictures are the product of photographers. Photographers take the pictures with the best gear, or, if need be, with the least of gear. They just have a passion to make great pictures. They simply follow their calling.

    photography studio equipment
    image from olx.com

    Some of the ways you can describe a photographer:

        •    A photographer views the world artistically and notices things like light and shadows, color and design.

        •    He values nature and can photograph it so that everyone else can too.

        •    A photographer is extremely observant of his surroundings and takes lots of images of it.

        •    A photographer loves sharing his pictures so that others can experience the emotions that they bring out.

    But there are also some common misconceptions about photographers that you need to get rid of:

        •    He is not just lucky. Being at the right place at the right time does play a part in the game, but it is not because of luck. It is because she is dedicated to her passion.

        •    A photographer is good because she has the newest and bestest of gear. Many folks think that if they don't have that new digital SLR that just came out with the super-duper prime lens, they will not get the best shots. Although having good gear is important for a pro, it does not define a photographer.

        •    A photographer does not need to be a born artist. It is true that some people have a better eye for picture making, but it is also true that the eye can be trained to see the creative images.

        •    He has a natural knack for things that are technical and difficult. One of the myths about photography is that it is really technical, which inevitably makes it too hard to grasp. Sorry, but this is just not the case. A photographer can take good pictures with any equipment. It's true that some types of photo gear are quite technical, but, once again, they do not determine a photographer.

    Great photography is really extremely easy. Be prepared to take a photograph when the opportunity presents itself (hence the term "photo opportunity"). "View" your surroundings in a different light. Become familiar with some primary guidelines about shooting technique. Shoot.

    OK, so maybe it is not as easy as that, because it does take training. So learning about photography is part of the equation. That's where PhotographyClassesAtlanta.org comes in. Check us out.

    Saturday, January 8, 2011

    Do You Really Have To "Learn Photography" To Be A Photographer

    Learn Photography? Really?


    Photography is awesome! There are so many kinds of images that it can satisfy nearly everyone in some way. That's why I have been spending so much time trying to learn photography, every facet of it. But I get too focused on the technological aspects rather than on the creativity involved in photography.

    Is a photographer an artist? An even more pressing question: Does simply owning a digital SLR camera make an individual a photographer?

    I must admit that I have been thinking about these things with regard to my own work quite a bit lately I do own a digital SLR camera. And, I do take lots of pictures with my digital SLR camera. So, taking photos is not the problem, but I still have difficulty classifying myself as a photographer.

    The cause of this difficulty is that I invariably compare my photos with those of others whom I respect. I spend far too much time viewing the pictures of photographers who I consider as very talented in the sphere of photography, and, quite honestly, I regard my photos fairly stinky after looking at theirs. Yet, someone else sees my images and is amazed at how good they are. My problem, I think, is personal expectation.

    My goal is to take pictures that compare to photographers like Rick Sammons and Moose Peterson, two of photographers and teachers that I admire greatly. My opinion... I just don't compare as a photographer to those guys.

    When it comes to my own images, I admit that I am quite critical. Yet at times, I tend to be even more critical about those who think of themselves photographers yet they know naught about the technical part of picture taking. Why does someone call himself a photographer when he doesn't know an aperture from an exposure setting?

    However, after some soul searching, I realize that I am being rather cynical. After all, one man's trash is another man's treasure, right? I have come to realize, I spend too much time evaluating the technical aspects of photos instead of the more important emotional affect of the photo.

    An image becomes art when it can inspire or draw out the emotion of a viewer.

    A person's ability to manipulate the camera settings, while important, is not art. Likewise, if the camera is left on "auto" all the time, why should that be important? The key is that they are taking pictures that bring joy, or sadness, or wonder to others.

    Something else I realized as I thought through this issue is that the goal of all photographers is not to have their photos published by Better Homes and Gardens . They only want to have a record or journal of family memories, and that is good enough to qualify them as photographers and artists.

    My desire for this article is simply to encourage "photographers" to keep on shooting. Don't be afraid to let your imagination lead you into your next shot. Maybe it will bring a smile to a friend's face, or it may end up in National Geographic in spite of us Pixel Peepers.

    Learn Photography? Go to http://www.photographyclassesatlanta.org and have a peek.