One rule that you should always keep in mind is this: It's the
photographer that takes great photos, not the camera. Think about that for a
minute. It's true isn't it?  Digital cameras come with a lot of neat
features, but how many of us actually use them or even know what it is for? 
Some don't even know that the features are there.  No pun intended. 

A website called Basic Digital Photography provided the following tips
on shooting digital photos that you can apply the next time you have
the chance. Before long, you'll be shooting photos like a pro.
 
1. Know Your Camera

What normally happens everytime you buy the latest digital camera is
once you reached home, you rip off the box, then proceed to fiddle with
the device. You briefly flick through the hundred-page camera manual and
then never look at it again. Not a good idea. If you buy a digital
camera, you owe it to yourself to understand its ins and outs, specially
the features. Learn how to control exposure, how to use different camera
modes and how to use the flash. The knowledge you gain about the camera
will be invaluable when you're out in the field taking those special
photos.
 
2. Learn to Control the Flash

One of the most important things you need to know about digital
photography is to control the flash. Do not rely on the automatic flash that
comes with the digital camera. Depending on the situation, you need to
switch off or switch on the flash.

For example, when taking outdoor photos, it is sometimes good to turn
on the flash to illuminate the subject, especially if he or she is in
the shade. On the other hand, you can also choose to turn off the flash
when taking indoor shots. Sometimes, using the flash indoors will result
in unnatural skin color and harsh glare in your photos.
 
3. Play with the Macro Mode

Almost all digital camera these days has a macro mode. This setting is
ideal for taking close up shots of objects like flowers or insects.
Normally macro modes are represented by a flower symbol. What you do is to
pick a subject, turn on macro mode, and then get as close to it as your
camera will allow. Make sure you allow the camera to focus properly
before depressing the shutter button fully.
 
4. Hold the Camera Level

A basic rule of photography is to hold the camera level. Since most
digital cameras come with a LCD, you can use it to properly frame your
shots. Next time you're taking a shot, try to look for the horizontal
lines and use them as guides. A good example is to make use of the horizon
when you're taking a photo of a sunset.
 
5. Use the Tripod

Camera tripods are an essential tool in your photography arsenal. When
will you need a tripod? Well, it's useful if you're taking shots under
low-light conditions or trying to capture fast moving objects. You can
also use a tripod when taking night shots city streets. Always try to
look for a tripod that's convenient to carry around. For personal use,
you don't need a huge one - just a simple compact one that's easy to
pack.
 
6. Play with the ISO Setting

The ISO setting of a essentially camera controls it's sensitivity to
light. If you're taking a photo of a still object, like a flower, then
always use a low ISO setting. It allows for a longer shutter speed and
produces a cleaner image. If you're shooting a moving object, like a baby
playing with a toy, then a higher ISO setting of say 400 would be
better. Do take note, however, that a higher ISO setting gives a faster
shutter speed and requires less light. This will produce nosier photos.
 
7. Have Enough Memory Capacity

Just like you must have enough rolls of film when using traditional
cameras, make sure you always have enough memory capacity in your digital
camera. It's terrible to be on a holiday taking great photos and
suddenly realizing you've no memory space left. Here are some general
guidelines for digital camera storage.

* 2 megapixel cameras - get at least a 64MB card
* 3 megapixel camera - get at least a 128MB card
* 4 megapixel camera - get at least a 256MB card
* 5 megapixel camera and above - get at least a 512MB or 1GB card

While the latest and greatest digital cameras have amazing features,
you still need a skilled photographer to take nice pictures. Apply the
above basic tips to your everyday shooting and learn to be a better
photographer.  Remember that patience is a virtue.  Be patient and practice
often.  What are you waiting for, head out and start taking your great
pictures.

*****

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God Bless us all!!!