Top 10 Digital Camera Tips:
(in no particular order)
1. Use Rechargeable Batteries:
Make sure your digital camera supports them. Look for at least 1800 mAh. Get more than one set.
2. Save those batteries:
The three best ways to save batteries are…
1. Don’t use your LCD except for macro and composition shots.
2. Don’t over use your zoom lens.
3. Don’t connect your camera to your computer (use a media reader).
3. Carry and Use Several Memory Cards:
The size of memory cards you carry is not as important as how you use it. If you carry large memory cards, try to rotate them as they get partially full. This will prevent you from losing all of your pictures if the card is corrupted or the camera is stolen or lost.
4. Keep the Camera Set on Highest Resolution:
You can never raise the resolution of an image. The lower the resolution, the lesser the detail and print size.
5. Use the Camera’s Hand Strap.
The small hand strap that comes with most cameras will help you hold the camera still and prevent you from dropping it.
6. Don’t Be So Anxious to See Your Photos:
It is easy to get in the habit of looking at your LCD screen immediately after taking each picture. Doing this will often cause you to miss another great shot. Take several pictures in a row, then go back and look at them.
7. Keep Your Camera’s Batteries Fresh:
Low batteries will slow down your camera’s response time. Power is used for focusing, zoom and flash recharging. If these processes are acting sluggish, it may be time to change your batteries.
8. Zoom Back for Macro Shots:
Often people try to turn their camera to macro, then zoom into the subject. Most macro lenses are designed to work from less than 3 feet away. Zoom your camera lens back and move the camera closer to keep the subject in focus. And Don’t used your flash.
9. Know Your Camera’s Lights and Beeps:
Your digital camera has a variety of lights and sounds. Common lights indicate the following: flash is on, the camera is ready to shoot, the flash is on, an image is being written to the card. Common sounds indicate: the camera can’t focus, auto timer is running, conditions are too dark to shoot without a flash.
10. Prepare Your Camera for the Shot:
Before you take the picture, hold the shutter release (picture taking button) half way down to allow the camera to meter and focus. When the camera is ready, press the shutter the rest of the way down. This will increase the reaction time of your camera for taking a picture.
Links from this month’s meeting
Digital Photography Review’s Glossary of Terms
Download Picasa Photo Sorting Software
Pic2Mail Picture Resizer
PC Inspector – flash memory recovery
