Picture Perfect Place

Freebies That Are Priceless

2006-05-16T11:53:00.000-05:00

How many times have you seen "free offers" on the internet, only to discover that they are worth exactly what you paid for them?

Here are some exceptions that are truly valuable:

#1:

If you use Microsoft's Internet Explorer, prepare to grin from ear to ear. It's something I have personally found and use, and it produces great results. And IT'S FREE...

Just check out the 4th item down (Firefox browser) on my photo products idea page.

If you surfed here using Microsoft's Internet Explorer, do yourself a HUGE FAVOR and check out Firefox. It's so much better, faster, and a snap to install (automatically moves all your favorites, etc.). I have been using it for about 6 weeks and will never go back to IE.

#2:

Visitors continually ask how to condense all my tips into a printable document so they can take it with as a reference guide. Since we have not yet written an ebook that covers digital photography tips, we have done the next best thing.

After personally searching the internet for over one year to find a product that meets the above standards, success has been achieved. I have personally reviewed the ebook of David Peterson, and... well, I was impressed! David provides the information in several formats:

If you want to sign up for a FREE eCourse, in which one or more tips is emailed to you every few days, you can do so.
If you prefer to have a copy of ALL the tips, that is available also, for a small fee.
Finally, David also provides an electronic or printed version of 267 Simple Tips for Sensational Photos.

If you're just beginning in digital photography, learn how to get good real quick. If you're already good, see how easy it is to get better.

Keep shooting.

Your Source for Photography Tips

Delete or Don't Delete Images - Don't Decide Too Quickly

2005-06-18T12:26:00.000-05:00

Without question, one of the most appreciated features of digital cameras is the ability to delete unwanted images without costiing you anything.

However, before going through the 50 images you just took and deleting half of them because of blur, color, composition, or a stranger walking through your shot at the perfect WRONG moment; think twice.

Keep these factors in mind:

Don't use your digital camera's viewfinder to make color or blur decisions. It is much too small, and results will vary according to the viewing angle and ambient light. Make these type of decisions once the image has been downloaded to your computer.
How many times have you taken a picture a split second after a stranger accidentally enters the framed shot? If you notice this when it happens, you can always retake the shot.
But, what if you don't realize it when you press the shutter? When reviewing the images, your first instinct may be to delete the image but resist the urge.
Most likely the software that came with your camera provides you the ability to crop your photo. After you download the image, determine what result you would get if you cropped out the undesired elements from your photograph. Depending on how much is cropped and the original megapixels of the starting image, you may end up with a satisfactory 4x6 or 8x10 photograph.
If you do have a "garbage shot," consider using it to get familiar with your photo-editing software. I've learned plenty by going down the road of "I wonder what this tool (or feature) does?"

Final word of caution... with most digital cameras, once you hit the "delete image" function, you cannot recover the image. So, just be sure.

Keep shooting.

Your Source for Photography Tips

The "Superbowl" of Fireworks Celebrations is a Comin'

2005-06-10T12:24:00.000-05:00

Let's face it... what's the first thing you think of when you hear July 4th? Can you say F-I-R-E-W-O-R-K-S?

Before I began to photograph fireworks, I had many years of photographic experience behind me. Despite that, the thought of taking pictures of live fireworks displays intimidated me.

It was so different than any other type of photography I had ever done! It struck me as being very complicated, requiring techniques I was unfamiliar with.

Well, I'm happy to report that after several night time light shows, and many fizzled photo attempts, I got the process down to 3 key steps...

Select the best location. All the "do's" and "don'ts" are covered in detail at Fireworks Photography - Step #1. The key point here is to change your mindset from a viewer to a photographer, and then choose the best location accordingly.
Proper set up of your location. What to do and how to do it are found at Fireworks Photography - Step #2. These points address preparation, and how to set up your equipment.
Taking the pictures. This critical last step is spelled out at Fireworks Photography - Step #3. What to do and not to do are covered here.

There you have it. Just remember to enjoy the show while you're taking the shots.

Keep shooting.

Your Source for Photography Tips

It's Almost Summer... Make Your Photo Plans For That Special BEACH VACATION -- Part II

2005-06-05T12:52:00.000-05:00

OK, you've made it through Part I, and made it to your summer beach vacation destination. Now it's time to capture some priceless memories that when you pull out for others to view, won't be met with: "Umm, could we do something else, like wash the cat?"

If there are any magestic bluffs, or overlooks at your favorite vacation spot, anyone can get a nice landscape shot of just the scenery. But, wouldn't it be nice to have your family in the foreground AND the landscape in the background with both being in focus?

Here's how...

Position the human subject(s) in the foreground, just at the "break" between foreground and background.
Begin by setting your F-stop for a high number (at least F-11, or at the "infinity" or "landscape" setting of your camera). Use the evaluative or matrix metering mode and focus on your human subject.
Position yourself no closer than 10 feet from your human subject.
Adjust the circular polarizer filter to obtain the desired shade of blue in the sky.
Gently squeeze the shutter button.

Ideally, you would want to check the overall contrast for the shot; however, that is not practical through your LCD screen on the back of your camera.
If you have a histogram display, verify that it is not significantly shifted to either the extreme right or left.

And, just to be safe (highly recommended for any potential "postcard" shots) take another picture; in this case, using the center-weighted average metering mode.

And that's all there is to it. Simple when you know how, isn't it? For more beach vacation shot photo tips, visit Family Beach Vacation Pictures.

Keep shooting.
Your Source for Photography Tips

It's Almost Summer... Make Your Photo Plans For That Special BEACH VACATION -- Part I

2005-06-03T12:50:00.000-05:00

I'll bet you can't wait to go on your
SUMMER VACATION!!

Check your packing list. OK, no packing list... then check your memory for the essential items. Got a question: do you have any idea what photography gear to take with on your beach vacation?
Here's a quick combo MUST-HAVE + WANT-TO photography packing list:

Camera, batteries, memory cards, camera case, battery chargers, external flash (if available), tripod, and portable digital storage device.
Consider purchasing a circular polarizer filter. You will not regret it!

Circular polarizer filters are magical little devices. They

Make the blue in the sky appear deeper and bluer
Allow you to clearly see objects under the water
Makes colors under certain conditions "pop" off the page with vividness

Stay tuned for Part II, in which we'll cover how to capture outstanding photographic memories of your beach vacation.

Keep shooting.
Your Source for Photography Tips

Memory Cards and Resolution

2005-03-19T12:06:00.000-06:00

In response to all the questions on 2 pressing topics, I have added 2 new pages to address them:

Memory Cards address the different types out there as well as a cost consideration you may want to use for your next camera purchase. And if you want to have an idea how many images can fit on different sized memory cards, check out the chart

Resolution covers all those issues visitors wanted to know. We cover:

What resolution is
Why it's a key factor when deciding upon your next digital camera purchase
What a Pixel is
And a major cropping tip

Keep shooting.
Your Source for Photography Tips

Black and White Photography Tips

2005-03-07T09:17:00.000-06:00

Another new birth announcement... Black and White Photography Tips

Here are the reasons to take Black and White Photos, and here's the link to see the tips: Black and White Photography Tips

Why learn black and white photography tips in a world of color? Is there any point? Do you see black and white photographs anywhere? There is an excellent chance that you have never taken a black and white photograph in your entire life. Since there is much confusion on this entire topic, let's set the record straight.

In spite of the incredible popularity of digital color photography, there will always be room for black and white photography. The elegance and timelessness of black and white photography ensures its continual popularity. The fact is that more people are becomming interested in black and white photography for many reasons...

It's seen less frequently, hence it is rare and for that reason alone... of interest
When used "properly," it accentuates the depth of the photograph
Heightens emotional content
Black and white photography has a tendancy to make photos look more like works of art
Produces a clean, crisp look
Transforms a dingy or overcast look into a striking photo evoking emotion

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

How Do You Decide On a Digital Camera?

2005-03-06T20:05:00.000-06:00

Everybody seems to go about figuring out which digital camera to buy in their own unique style. Since my site deals with numerous photography tips for posing, lighting, moving, etc, let's look at how folks get started...

Comparing the features of a digital camera could be a no-brainer, or a life-long pursuit. Don't overlook the fact that you don't need to become an expert on everything! You just need to know enough to decide whether a certain camera feature is important to Y-O-U.

So, where do you start? In actuality, you can start and finish at Digital Camera Features where many different features are discussed. For example, it's important to know about Metering Modes. This is just one feature in a list that is addressed.

And, don't worry about technical photo-speak. The site explains things in plain old English. One additional place you will probably want to check out is the page on The Tripod. This is one of the most overlooked and versatile pieces of camera gear there is. And, for the most part, you can get away with a good one for under $35.00. (A table-top one for a small digital camera can be had for under $10.00)

I'm going to run and take a few shots now... I'm having a bad case of picture-withdrawal!
Keep shooting.

Your Source for Photography Tips

A New Blog is Born!

2005-02-04T17:59:00.000-06:00

Happy birthday to you... Happy ...

A new birth happened today on Best Family Photography Tips! It's a brand new bouncing baby blog named Billy.

His vitals are: Family Photography Tips News and Information. But that's not all! We also have a new page that addresses your passion.

More specifically, "Profiting from your Passion!" What could be better than that? Check out this gem at Passion .

Stay tuned for more births.

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

The Tripod & Other Useful Things

2005-02-01T10:26:00.000-06:00

Back again,

If you don't have a tripod, listen up. Also, check out the following for very useful photo info:

Does this help?

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

Child Pictures & What to do with Them

2005-01-31T10:15:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone again,

Back by popular demand, requests for what to do with child pictures...

What are good poses? How do I get them out of the camera? You get the idea. So, check out these links:

Hope this helps!

Later...
Robert
Best Family Photography Tips

Google AdSense

2005-01-30T13:58:00.000-06:00

To all my fellow SBI-ers (they know who they are) and other webmasters, you have got to check out Google's adsense program! It's a great program, and I am getting results.

To take a peek at the pages I placed some of the ads, go to:

In addition, Google provides a slick search tool, that you should consider. Check out...

Later...

Robert
Best Family Photography Tips

Super Resources for all Your Photography Needs

2005-01-28T11:58:00.000-06:00

Good news for you "resource hounds." I have 2 announcements:

Due to constant requests, many of the best photographs from my personal portfolio are now available for purchase! I can just hear the thundering shouts of "Yippy" now.
Many sites post resources on their "resource page" of their site that are... well, how can I tactfully say this... Um, sort of... oh, I got it -- average. (How's that for tact?) The reason I list mine on a page called "SUPER Resources," is because they are. I am compiling a list of resources that are really great (if I do say so myself).

You can find the highlighted resources on Family Photography Resources.

Also, you may want to check out the About Us page. It's different than most "I have a wife, 2.5 children, and a gerbil named Ralph" pages (after all, what would you expect from someone who had a gerbil named "Chazi?"

Later...

Robert
Best Family Photography Tips

After the Family Reunion, then what?

2005-01-27T13:06:00.000-06:00

Hi photonuts,

Well, the response to The 50,000 foot view of a Family Reunion has been so positive, that I'm working on how to prepare an Anniversary Party and major Birthday Party. So, keep your eyes open, they'll be coming soon.

In the meantime, check out SUPER Photography Resources for some remarkable products and services.

And, just because it's winter where I live, doesn't mean there's not places in the rest of the world where you can take great outdoor photography (other than snow). Therefore, to take the best shots you can, check out:

Happy clicking!

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

Fireworks Photography

2005-01-25T10:20:00.000-06:00

Interested in capturing "wow" fireworks photos? It's not as easy as it sounds. For all the inside info, check out these links:

Don't forget the bug spray!

Later...

Robert
Best Family Photography Tips

Thinking About a Family Reunion?

2005-01-17T10:02:00.000-06:00

A Family Reunion is one of the best ways to keep in touch with your extended family and strengthen relationships with the people most important to you (of course, you can bring your dog).

The challenge is that it is very intimidating to organize. Think again! Check out these six pages that cover all the elements for putting together and attending a family reunion without breaking the bank.

Say hi to the kids for me!

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

Identifying Key Digital Camera Features

2005-01-14T17:40:00.000-06:00

Future development announcement... within the next month or so, we're hoping to have a form where you can simply check off various key features, by category, and use the resulting email as a "shopping list" for your next digital camera.

And how will you know what features are the key ones for you? Easy - just check out Compare Digital Camera Features, and scroll to the bottom of the page.

So far, we have the following key features (or information needed to determine features you want) on:

Watch out, you may become an expert in spite of yourself.

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

Great Birthday Party Site

2005-01-12T17:33:00.000-06:00

If you're checking out Best Family Photography Tips for kid's birthday party tips, you need look no further than Perfect Party Ideas.

Check it out. You won't be disappointed!

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

Writing Website Articles

2005-01-10T13:06:00.000-06:00

For all you writers and website owners wanting more traffic, you may want to check out link to Ideamarketers . I just signed up at this "writer's site" and posted an article.

The theory is anyone can search their database and use any article on their website. If done, the author's bio, including all links, is included.

Just a thought...

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

Before Taking Baby Pictures, Know Some Basics

2005-01-06T13:41:00.000-06:00

Before rushing off to take 2 million digital photos of your new "bundle of joy," remember the fact that you'll want to look at these pictures at some point down the road. Therefore, it might be best to review some critical basics, so that when you do review your child's pics, your first thought is not "I could make a lot of money sending these into Ripley's Believe it or Not!"

A baby's ability to "pose" depends upon their mobility and strength, and that translates into age. So, remember...

0 to 3 months: Like rag dolls. Except for laying down, they must be held for any pose
3 to 6 months: Beginning to hold their head up on their own. Still very limited posing on their own (No point to gleefully skip up to little Amy proclaiming: "Dear, just slip into this ballerina outfit and stand over there-we're ready for your first formal baby portraits.")
6 to 9 months: Can "kind of" sit up on their own. You can pose them, but don't expect them to stay still. (Unless your camera is on a very fast shutter speed-at least 1/500 second, don't expect anything other than slightly blurred baby pictures)
9 to 12 months: Look out, mom and dad! You've just graduated to Baby Photography 102. Little Jimmy (or Janie) can now pull themselves up and may be starting to walk
18 months: DEFCON 3--Your baby is walking!

For much more info PLUS posing examples and tips, visit Baby Picture Basics.

For additional tips, check out these links:

Happy clicking.

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

Where's A Professional When You Need One

2005-01-04T10:21:00.000-06:00

So, you think you need a professional photographer, huh? Are family reunions, birthday parties, baby pictures, pet portraits, or other family events in your future? That's okay. Check out The Pros & Cons of Using a Professional.

It's great to pick up terrific tips on all the many aspects of photography, but... there's a downside. The more you learn, the more you realize there is to learn.

This is true, whether you're learning tips on:

In any case, deciding on whether to use a pro or not; and then how to find one is not an easy task. However, just check out This Spot and you'll find everything you need.

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

How To Survive Indoors WITHOUT a Flash

2005-01-02T11:52:00.000-06:00

For all you experimentors out there, pay attention. As mentioned in my Indoor Tips in Best Family Photography Tips, there are four specific areas to think of when taking indoor photos:

Basic Planning
The Tripod (one of the most essential accessories in photography)
"Watch your Background!", and finally
Flash & Lighting

As discussed in the "Flash" Photography section, flash units offer somewhat of a challenge to the entire photographic process. We have our old friends "the shadow," hot spots, and reflections to worry about, to name just a few.

Although I discuss strategies on handling all of the above at Best Family Photography Tips, I experimented with the "ISO technique" at my New Years Eve party.

Simply put, if your camera has an ISO setting of at least 400, and preferable 800 or higher, put your white balance (discussed at White Balance) on the proper setting for the lighting conditions, and snap away without a flash.

As soon as I resolve a little "uploading" issue, I'll post the photo I took at ISO 800 without a flash, that turned out better than most pictures with a flash. And, if you're curious about finding details on other important digital camera features, check out: Important Camera Features.

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

After the Photos... Now What?

2005-01-01T17:54:00.000-06:00

Okay, you've got some great New Years shots, especially those really embarrassing ones of your spouse. Now what do you do with them?

For starters, check out the Digital Workflow at What to do AFTER you take the pictures at that world-famous website of mine.

As a teaser of what you'll learn are:

Check back to this blog for some great ideas on sharing your photos and on "insuring" them.

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips

Happy 2005

2005-01-01T01:59:00.000-06:00

It's almost time to see the light of the fireworks. Wait... where's my camera? Oh, no! If you got yours, you can go to Best Family Photography Tips and check out the different tips you can use all the time, or you can go directly to Best Family Photography Tips for nighttime for immediate application.

Oh, as long as you're at a party, you may want to take advantage of these:

Later...

Robert

Best Family Photography Tips