Digital Photography 1 on 1: Episode 14: Aperture Values

Protecting Printed Photographs…

Photography may be almost entirely digital these days but printed photographs are still quite popular. Chances are, you have stacks of printed photographs stored somewhere in your home or office. In light of a new year and fresh starts, take a bit of time to make sure your valuable printed photographs are properly organized, protected and stored.

Have the Right Tools in Place: You don’t need very much for your organizing project—just a few archival-quality photo storage boxes and maybe an acid-free photo album or two. Also make sure to pick up an acid-free pen for writing on the backs of photographs or other items. In this instance, archival and acid-free products are extremely important in protecting your images for the long term. We stock a variety of these quality products, so stop by the store and let us help you get everything you need!

Consider Corners: When working on a photo album or scrapbook, consider forgoing glue to secure the backs of your photographs to the pages (unless it is acid-free) and use photo corners instead. Photo corners come in a number of colors and cuts and add visual interest to your scrapbook layout in addition to keeping pictures in place.

No Attic Necessary: Oftentimes, when people think of storing their printed or heirloom photographs, placing boxes in attics may come to mind. Instead of tucking them far away and possibly subjecting them to extreme changes in temperature and humidity, select an area of a bookshelf or other accessible area in your home instead. It’s best to have them stored in a climate-controlled environment and one with normal ventilation.

Another reason to keep the pictures in arm’s reach? It just might encourage a stroll down memory lane and encourage children and other family members to bring the photographs out and ask questions about their ancestry and history. Children are often fascinated by their family history and by relatives who have since passed on. Sharing what you know and reminiscing through old photographs is a great way to pass along stories and connect with family.

Vintage Photo Protection: If you have very old family photographs, it may be time to make a digital copy. Bring them to our store so that we can create a high quality archival scan for you and discuss the restoration options we offer. Having a digital copy will give additional peace of mind and will also allow you to share the image with family members who might want a copy for their own records and enjoyment.

Displaying Your Favorites: Select some of your favorite photographs and frame them so that they can be part of your ongoing conversations and reflections. When selecting a frame, aluminum designs are best as they are unaffected by changes in humidity. Also, make sure that your frames use UV resistant glass to protect the images from the elements. Try displaying them in areas not washed in direct sunlight for an added layer of protection.

Ignore other projects: Yes, protecting these precious memories are THAT important. After all, do you ever hear people say they would rush into a burning house to rescue their laundry? It’s the photo albums that top the list.

Digital Photography 1 on 1: Episode 13: White Balance

Digital Photography 1 on 1: Episode 12 Depth of Field

Tips for Photographing Holiday Lights

When it comes to photographing holiday lights, knowing a few tricks can greatly improve your chances of capturing images that truly represent the beauty of the celebration of light before you. Some people think that you need an expensive camera or an elaborate setup to photograph holiday lights, but in truth, you can work wonders with a standard point-and-shoot and a little knowledge of how to balance light.

Tracking Different Ambient Lights: Photographing holiday lights means keeping track of the diminishing ambient light—most notably, the sun as it sets. You’ll get the best results photographing lights BEFORE it gets dark. During the dusk period, you’ll find a nice balance of diminishing ambient light contrasting with the holiday lights, which means you’ll be able to see more objects in the background.

Try Tungsten: Set your custom white balance to tungsten, just as you would if you were photographing something indoors without using a flash. Holiday lights are balanced for tungsten lighting and this will give your images a warm contrast between the sky/background and the lights.

Composition Counts: When it comes to photographing holiday lights, use a good portion of the evening sky in the background. It will help to better highlight your subject and will add interest to the image.

Bring Your Tripod: Using a tripod is especially important in shooting holiday lights. It will provide stability, which is particularly critical with low-light photography, and will keep your shot properly framed as you continue shooting as the evening light transitions to black.

Take Ten Shots (Over Ten Minutes): Once you have everything set, begin taking a photograph every minute or so. Your eyes may not register the gradual changes so track the time with your watch or cell phone. Then, shoot every minute or so over a ten to fifteen minute period. You’ll see the changes in evening lighting as you scroll though your shots.

Photographing holiday lights is a fantastic way to stretch your creative skills and capture the beauty of the holiday season. Don’t be afraid to experiment; some of the most amazing images are captured when we try new things!

Stocking Stuffers for Your Favorite Shutterbugs!

Give the gift of storytelling this holiday season by stuffing some stockings with high quality photo accessories! You’re guaranteed tons of smiles and hugs when these little beauties are unwrapped.

Memory Cards: Ok, maybe not the slickest, fanciest gift but one of the most practical things to put under the tree. A high-capacity memory card will make sure the shooting doesn’t have to stop because the camera card filled up too quickly! We have many high-capacity, high speed models here and all are priced to move!

Protection Filter: If you choose one photography accessory this year, let this one be it! The PROMASTER Digital HGX Protection Filter is a crystal clear, colorless filter that is designed specifically to protect your valuable lens surface from scratches, smudges, dust, dirt and grime. Try our fingerprint test—you’ll be amazed!

It’s in the Bag!: Professionals will tell you that the right bag can make all the difference in keeping gear organized, protected and easy to transport. We’ve got models to handle all lifestyles and needs from compact models, rolling bags, messenger bags and more—we can find the perfect choice to make the ideal gift this holiday!

The Gift that Glows!: If you have an aspiring professional photographer on your gift-giving list, consider choosing a quality studio light or accessory. The pros know how critical it is to be able to manipulate and control light when photographing a subject and nothing can take the place of the right tools. We’ve got high quality stands, adapters and more.

The Basics: Creating a Holiday Home Video

When it comes to shooting holiday video, many of us simply hit the ‘record’ button and shoot whatever is in front of us. Maybe we ask people to say something; they offer an awkward smile and a wave and we’re off to the next unsuspecting family member. This year, take a few basic tips and let them transform your home video from amateur to extraordinary!

Beat the Crowds: If possible, take a few moments to video the surroundings before guests arrive. Zoom in on the decorations; shoot video of the tree, the presents or a cherished family photograph. If you have holiday lights or decorations outside the house, shoot some video of the front of the house as well as any snow or frost in the area. During the editing process (and editing is easier than you think), you can use these moments at the beginning of the video or as part of a transition.

Capture the Kitchen: Everyone knows that most of the real action happens in the kitchen! Capturing the conversations of family members reminiscing about holidays past, cooking together and enjoying one another’s company can make for a very personal and memorable holiday video. Try to stay back a bit—zoom in if possible—but keep your physical distance. You don’t want to intrude or hinder the natural flow of the conversation with your presence.

Get Some Support: This is one of those times when a tripod is an invaluable tool. Not only will it help you keep your shots steady, it can also become a fixture in a room—people will get used to it after awhile and you can capture more natural interactions. In fact, you can leave your camera running in one location for a bit; you’d be amazed at some of the unscripted gems you’ll record. Just keep an eye on your recording time! We have a number of high quality tripod options—just consider it an early Christmas present!

The Fun Interview Corner: Consider creating a small studio in the corner of a room to have friends and relatives share stories and sentiments on video. Offer lead-in questions such as, “What do you love most about the holidays?”, “What is your favorite holiday tradition?”, or “What is your funniest holiday memory?” Consider using an attractive chair and a small table with a family photo as shooting location. Also, pay attention to lighting—you don’t want your subject to appear harsh or washed out. Experiment with existing lighting and consider adding a small fill light if necessary.

Editing with Ease: If you’re new to video editing, get ready for a fun adventure! Don’t feel that you have to be proficient immediately. Instead, enjoy learning the basics—you’d be amazed at the quality of projects you can create with even the most basic software programs. Here are just a few programs for you to consider (please note we are not endorsing these choices, only sharing with you the most highly rated options):

· Adobe Lightroom

· Adobe Premiere Elements 9

· Apple Aperture

· Apple iMovie ‘11

· Corel Digital Studio 2010

· Cyberlink PowerDirector 8 Deluxe

· Windows Live Movie Maker 2011

Short Clips for Sharing: You can create short clips to share on Facebook, YouTube and on your personal blog. It’s a great way to connect with distant loved ones who were unable to attend.

The Perfect Gift: Once your video project is complete, send copies to everyone on your family gift list. Your storytelling skills will be warmly appreciated and your project will likely be one of the most valued and personal gifts your family has ever received.

Digital Photography 1 on 1: Episode 11

Digital Photography 1 on 1: Episode 10