Alluring Camera Features

Posted on May 24, 2012 by Michele Cheplic

Point-and-shoot cameras have come a long way since the days of the Kodak Instamatic. These days you can program high-tech digital cameras to take photos for you while you simultaneously juggle bowling balls and sip tropical libations on the beach. There is virtually no end to the amount of fab features included on some cutting-edge cameras. One of the latest and greatest trends in camera features is the high-resolution touch screen. Located on the back of the camera, the flat screen allows you to simply tap an icon with your fingertip to change settings. This means no more fiddling with … Continue reading →

Moo-ving Shots

Posted on July 28, 2011 by Michele Cheplic

True or false: Cows sit down when it’s about to rain? My 6-year-old bought that myth hook, line and sinker, despite a “real” farmer trying to explain otherwise. The problem is my child has photographic proof that cows really do take a load off when dark clouds roll in. Years ago I snapped a shot of a cow sitting pretty with a black sky as the background. What you don’t see in the photo is that there were about 14 other cows standing straight up as the rain began to fall. Whether you are taking pictures of cows, horses or … Continue reading →

Family Reunion Shots

Posted on July 19, 2011 by Michele Cheplic

Summer reunions are a tradition for many families across the globe. In addition to allowing multiple generations the opportunity to get to know each other a little better, reunions are also a prime chance to snap keepers of each family member. We all know that family photos are invaluable, but only the best ones are passed down from generation to generation. So, what do you need to do to ensure your family reunion shots are frame worthy? For starters, a family portrait should reflect a cohesive structure, regardless of how many subjects appear in a single shot. Whether you are … Continue reading →

Going High-Tech

Posted on April 24, 2011 by Michele Cheplic

In my opinion, it is nearly impossible to take a bad photo with a digital camera. With all the high-tech gadgetry built into deluxe digital picture-taking devices, you really have to go out of your way to take a bad shot. And when you do, there’s a good chance that it can be fixed thanks to photo-editing software. I have yet to snap an image that can’t be improved with a little Photoshop detail. While you don’t need to be a tech whiz to work a digital camera, it helps if you are not afraid to experiment with various buttons … Continue reading →

Prepping for the Easter Family Portrait

Posted on April 22, 2011 by Michele Cheplic

With Easter just a few days away many hobby shutterbugs are getting ready to capture holiday memories with their digital cameras. Given that Easter typically yields large family gatherings, the festive Sunday is the perfect opportunity to snap keepers of your clan. In preparation for the informal photo shoot, it’s a good idea to consider the following: Make a shot list: Contrary to popular belief photo shot lists are not just for weddings. Prior to taking family portraits it’s a good idea to prepare by thinking of the types of photos you want. Consider different poses and how each member … Continue reading →

Taking Sweeping Shots

Posted on September 13, 2010 by Michele Cheplic

Panoramic photography allows you to take sweeping shots of scenes and place them together in one beautiful photo. If you prefer to shoot with a traditional 35mm film camera you will likely have to spend thousands of dollars investing in an upgraded model that features special lenses to document panoramic images. However, you can get the same results with the traditional film or digital camera you already own by either cropping a 35mm frame into a panoramic format or taking multiple images and then molding them together on your computer. If you shoot exclusively with a digital camera consider the … Continue reading →

More Tips For Photographing Your Furry Friends

Posted on October 19, 2009 by Michele Cheplic

For some pet owners their four-legged friends are more than just animals, they are part of the family. As such, family pets often become popular photo subjects. However, taking pictures of your pet may prove frustrating if you are constantly snapping shots that appear as though your furry friend is possessed. The red-eye that appears when taking shots of animals is often referred to as “pet photo flash eye” or “green-eye effect” and avoiding it takes some practice. These days, most digital cameras come with red-eye reduction capabilities, which help eliminate that unattractive red glow that is caused when a … Continue reading →

Taking Your Camera to the Beach… and Using It

Posted on June 28, 2008 by Michele Cheplic

Summer is here… a time when millions of families head to the sun, sand, and surf. And along with the sunscreen, water and towels most will tote along their cameras to capture the sun-filled memories of children splashing in waves or building monster sand castles. Only not every shutterbug readily whips out his or her camera in the heat of the moment for fear that the elements (water, sand, etc.) will damage their expensive digital devices. Meanwhile, others simply forget that their cameras are sitting in their beach bags waiting to be used. As you head out on your family … Continue reading →

Tips to Remember When Shooting Indoors

Posted on March 29, 2008 by Michele Cheplic

One of the most important factors to keep in mind when shooting indoors is lighting. In your initial assessment of a room consider whether you will be using available natural light or your flash. Ideally you want to flood the room with as much natural light as possible. If the room has multiple windows open them to allow the natural light in. In the best-case scenario you will be able to fill the room with enough light so that you don’t have to use your flash. By eliminating the flash you’ll find your shots will not have those annoying orange … Continue reading →