A helmet camera is a small device that attaches to or is built in to a sports or bike helmet and that can be used to create hands-free video and still images. Although the first helmet cameras were created using traditional analog video technology, today, helmet cameras are more light-weight, convenient, and full-featured than ever before, thanks to digital video technology.

Skiers, bicyclists, skateboarders, motorcyclists, and other sports enthusiasts depend on tiny, lightweight helmet cameras to record fantastic footage of dazzling aerial feats that can be enjoyed over and over again with friends and family. As with all digital videos, footage is simple to edit and manipulate. You can even add special effects with a few clicks of the mouse.

For skiers, digital helmet cameras have become particularly popular. There are a few special considerations to keep in mind when looking for a helmet camera for skiing. First, you’ll be looking for a small, lightweight camera so as not to upset your balance on your skis. Look for a camera that weighs six to eight ounces or less, including the battery. Be aware, however, that the lightest weight cameras can be more expensive than heavier models.

Another consideration for skiers is to select a camera with a high mega-pixels and a high-quality lens. Often, people look only for mega-pixels, and don’t think about the fact that this number only denotes the number of ?pixels? or dots of color per square inch. Larger mega-pixels equate to an image that can be blown up to a larger size. For example, a low-mega-pixel camera can produce a video image that looks fine when displayed in a very small size. This may be fine for amateur enthusiasts or people that will want to look at the videos on their cell phones or mini digital devices, but for serious sportsmen and professionals, you are going to want a camera that produces images that will look sharp and crisp even when blown up to a larger size that can be displayed on a TV or laptop screen at full size. A high-quality lens ensures that the picture actually looks good ? not just is able to be blown up to a specific set of dimensions.

Finally, because skiers reach high speeds on the slopes, you’ll want to look for a camera that can provide image stabilization technology. This ensures that the video will look as if it were professionally produced. Other special image technologies, such as low-light performance enhancement, waterproof technology, and panoramic technology, are also essential.

Most helmet cameras are designed, as one might expect, to be mounted on a helmet. Without a helmet, you can take an old, lightweight, bike helmet, and attach it to that. You’ll receive all the tools and materials you need, as well as detailed instructions, to mount the camera to the helmet without damaging it. Or, you may choose to start with a hat, harness, or head-mounted flashlight. You can also select a camera that has a suction-cup mount or a quick-release to make attaching and detaching a breeze.

By: James Portis

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Here are some guidelines for better pictures using a digital SLR camera:

Simplicity – Remove any clutter from the scene you are shooting. Zoom in to capture the part you want to emphasize.

Rule of thirds – You will find this rule mentioned a lot and it’s a great way to capture a moving object. Just imagine a tic-tac-toe frame and capture the subject from one of the two sides.

Shapes and lines – Move five to ten feet away to the side to capture a straight line at an angle.

Vantage point – Shoot a picture at a lower vantage point. Increasing the height away from the object can reduce its significance.

Balance – However, unbalanced or asymmetrical objects are often more visually stimulating than balanced objects.

Framing – Use the frames of windows to capture an outdoor scene. Use doors and walls of a building to capture a walking person.

Indoor photographs – Natural lighting can produce excellent candid shots instead of the flash, but be sure to use a tripod.

Camera adjustments – The aperture allows light to enter. You must learn how to adjust this properly and appropriately so that images will not appear as either very bright or very dim.

Lowering the shutter speed allows the image to be more exposed to light. You must learn the proper length of exposure so that images will not appear as blurry.

ISO speeds – Digital cameras have ISO speeds ranging from 100 to 800. The higher the ISO, the higher the camera’s sensitivity to light’s exposure. Be sure to master using this element along with the camera’s aperture and shutter speeds.

Lens/Filters – Just about all digital SLR cameras allow you attache different lenses.

Lenses can be categorized as follows:

a. A macro lens allows you to get closer to objects like insects and flowers

b. A wide angle lens is used for capturing landmarks, and large and wide sceneries

c. A telephoto lens allows longer zooms that let you get close to objects that are far away, like birds in trees.

Filters can be used to:

a. soften the effect of the image

b. provide blurring on the edges for portraits that have sensitive moods

c. add light flares for the image to be more dramatic

d. to reduce glare so that pictures appear more saturated, crisp, and vivid.

Once you have understood and mastered the important points on digital photography and capturing pictures, you will soon see that it is easy to capture great images with even the simplest of cameras.

By: Lonnie Kunkel

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No one could live without digital cameras. It is our best bud wherever we go most especially for outdoor adventures. But how can we protect it during outdoor activities? Go water skiing, explore the underwater beauty, and take photos using this priceless memorabilia with the use of waterproof camera housing. Check out a wide range of waterproof camera housings and pouches that will protect your equipment while allowing its safe use at the same time.

The priceless photos that we take especially during special moments are very well treasured and protecting our digital cameras would be our top most priority. We can never take chances on ordinary products that may not guarantee quality cases and pouches. Make sure that the waterproof camera housing that you will buy is 100% reliable with flexibility and durability to stand the pressure underwater. Examine the quality of the material and make a trial test for quality and durability proof. We can get in touch with our diving buddies to get some opinions and suggestions about the kind and the best brands to get for our gadget.

Other waterproof camera housing comes with shockproof, freeze proof and dust proof features. These features are intended for other outdoor activities and are additional features on some camera casing or pouches. Consider the maximum capacity for each feature that your camera housing can hold. Some waterproof camera housing cannot support underwater pressure and are only protection from being soaked. Some can only stand up to a certain depth with that of a swimming pool. Before you plunge in to your underwater diving adventures, make sure your camera is protected with a waterproof casing that can stand seawater pressure. You can always consult the seller of the housing to understand its features before using it.

Some waterproof accessories can also disrupt the functionality of your camera so make sure the waterproof casing is equipped with wave cut function and supports a LED illumination of your camera to let you capture bright light pictures even in a dark place. To make certain that the waterproof camera housing for your device is compatible with the features of your camera; try to search the waterproof casing or housing that is tailored fit for your camera model. Opt for the same brand for manufacturers design their devices according to the needs and functionality of their own products. In that way, you can be assured that the waterproof casing is appropriate for the unit that you have and therefore you can spare yourself the trouble of fitting it in or making it work like the way you want it.

By: Matt Gibbons

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One can be easily carried away when shopping for a digital camera and if you enter a big electronics shop unprepared, you can easily end up spending far more than you have initially wanted. A skillful salesman could easily convince you to buy a higher-end camera model for “just a few pounds more,” which could actually sound like a deal you would not want to miss. However, a top of the range digital camera might not be what you actually need – always decide in advance on how much money you would want to spend and stick to your decision. Take the time to account for all accessories and add-ons that you might need such as rechargeable battery, external media, camera cases, tripod, etc.

If you are about to purchase your first ever digital camera or need just an easy to use ‘snapper,” then a cheap, robust, and simple model might be the best option for you. Unless you want to be able to manually select the ISO, exposure, or white balance, and other similar settings, most low-end digital cameras should work perfectly for a beginner. They come with fewer and less confusing features, and most have an Automatic mode that allows even the most inexperienced users to take clear photos.

If you are after a more sophisticated and higher-end camera, then write down what you are going to be using it for as this might help you decide on the model that is perfect for you. If you are likely to take plenty of action or low-light photos, then seek a camera with wider ISO range, if you want to be able to record decent quality videos, seek a camera with HD video recording mode. Spend some time to research your options online, ask a few friends or a more experienced photographer for some advice, arrive at a compromise between your dream camera and your budget, and only then head for the shops.

By: Peter Kerl

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Starting with digital photography is simple, quick, easy and relatively inexpensive these days. Over the last few years the price of the cameras and accessories have reduced considerably. Using a digital camera opens up many new and unanticipated opportunities for the amateur photographer.

One thing these days is that you have no need to carry rolls of extra film around with you, a spare battery and memory card are perhaps the only additional things you will need in your pocket or handbag. As larger capacity memory cards are now available the need for extra memory cards is not so critical even with the size of compact camera images now around 12 megapixels.

You won’t even have to learn how to use them as their operation is virtually the same as a film camera, in fact they are easier in that they are truly point and shoot. With today’s modern compacts being fully automated you can shoot away knowing that you are going to obtain a decent image for your album. It might not necessarily be a great shot, but it will be good, barring human error such as camera shake!

Each and every one of them comes with a license to experiment with your photos and shooting techniques. As every shot you take is virtually free you can take as many shots as you wish in the hope of later pruning what you have and retaining the best. Professionals do this and delete all the poor shots, keeping only the best. With every camera having it’s own viewing screen it’s a simple task to check your results. Any you are not happy with you can delete on the spot, instantly freeing up more memory.

First things first though, you need to choose a camera. These days there are literally hundreds to choose from. Initially, you should perhaps go for a good quality compact with a decent image size of between 10 and 12 megapixels. You could of course go straight for Digital Single Lens Reflex camera (DSLR). The problem with this might be that they are rather complicated, need extra lenses and are rather expensive. A good compact will get you started enough to see if you are really interested in photography as a hobby or indeed a career.

If this is your first sortie into digital cameras or if you are looking to upgrade you will do no better than to go online and look at some of the review sites. These will give you good advice from users of a particular model as to their personal views about the cameras performance. Once you are happy with your choice it’s up to you to search the internet for the best deal when purchasing.

It’s good news for all of us that it’s certainly less costly than ever before to obtain a quality DSLR. Models that were retailing for a few thousand dollars a while ago now are less than a thousand. It’s entirely up to you which way to go, but do adequate research and you should be happy with the outcome.

Finally, you might want to think about buying a compact and a DSLR. This is not as strange as it may first seem. Many professionals have both, the compact will always be on their person whereas the DSLR will only go with them if they have something definite that they wish to photograph. Remember, a DSLR with its accessories will weigh a fair amount and is an attractive item for an opportunistic thief. Keep your eyes on it.

By: Phil Hadfield

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If you own a digital camera than you probably already know that there is a large variety of accessories that you can purchase with it. Some of the accessories that are available on the market are absolute necessities and others are optional pieces that are purchased based on the camera owners preferences. If you own, or are looking to purchase, a digital camera and are looking to learn more about digital camera accessories than you have come to the right place. Throughout this article we will discuss some of the many accessories available for purchase, so that you can pick and choose the ones that you feel are important to you.

Let’s begin by speaking about accessories that are usually considered an absolute necessity for digital camera owners. Regardless of what type of camera you own, every camera owner will have to own a battery charger. Battery charges are an absolute necessity for cameras because, without charged batteries, your camera cannot work! If you own a newer camera, chances are it came with its own battery and battery charger. Make sure to store this charger in a safe place as replacing it can often be quite pricey. If you own an older camera, it may take batteries. While some people are fine with purchasing new batteries each time their battery dies, it is often a good idea to purchase two sets (so you always have an extra set) of rechargeable batteries and a battery charger, so that you do not have to make a trip to the store every time you need new camera batteries!

If you own a digital camera you will also need to purchase a memory card. Although some cameras come with memory cards, many will have to be purchased separately from the camera. Memory cards are small, stamp size, electronics that store the digital information from your camera. Memory cards allow camera owners to store anywhere from 250-2000 photographs and to transfer these photographs from their camera to a computer via a connector cord or a memory card reader.

Although they are not necessities, camera cases are a highly recommended camera accessory. Not only are camera cases great for transferring your camera and holding camera accessories, but they are also necessary for your cameras protection. Cameras are very easily damaged by extreme weather conditions, sand, moisture, and dust. Camera cases give your camera the protection that it needs from all possible causes of damage, keeping your camera and your precious memories safe.

Additional, optional, camera accessories include digital photograph printers, tripods, flash attachments, and lens filters. Digital photograph printers allow individuals to transfer and print their photographs directly from their camera to their printer. Many digital photograph printers also offer various features to help edit your photographs before you print them. Tripods, although not a necessity, are often popular among those who are serious about photography. Tripods offer a secure place to set your camera when taking timed or motion photographs. More for professional photographers, flash attachments are a great accessory that allow the photographer to control their own light settings. Lens filters are also more for serious photographers and are accessories which are used to protect the camera lens and to create special effects.

If you own, or are looking to purchase, a digital camera you will need to purchase a battery charger and a memory card. You should also seriously consider purchasing a camera storage case to protect your camera from damage. If you want to print your photographs from the comfort of your own home than you will need to purchase a digital photography printer. For those of you who are more serious about photography, you may also consider purchasing a tripod, external flashes, and lens filters.

By: Calista Meade

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Generally digital cameras are pricey, but there are decent cheap digital cameras. It just takes a little persistence finding them. Most models priced under about $75 are mere novelties and not really very usable. But from about $80 to $125 there’s quite a selection of reliable cameras with a fair range of features.

The Ultimate Cheap – Disposable

One time use cameras start around $10. Unlike their film counterparts, these cameras are not throw-away. After taking about 25 photos you return it to the retailer who prints the pictures and a photo CD. The camera is then “refurbished” to be used again. Usually if you take a bad shot you can delete it, ensuring you get a couple dozen photos you really want.

Super Cheap Brands

Even though digital camera prices start as cheap as $20, image and camera quality are marginal at best. Companies like DXG, Concord, Mustek and Oregon Scientific offer several digital camera models in the $40 to $90 range. But be aware that some of these cameras have received absolutely terrible ratings. That doesn’t mean they’re all bad – and these companies offer better, higher priced cameras as well. Compare carefully before buying.

Inexpensive Rather Than Cheap

Some good digital camera values appear as prices approach $100. For best performance a camera should have at least 3.0 megapixels, optical zoom, basic scene modes and similar features. Entry level digital cameras like this from Canon, Fujifilm, Kodak, Olympus and other manufacturers are available from around $90 to less than $150. One way to save money and get a feature-rich quality camera is to look for factory refurbished digital cameras. These cameras are often priced 40% to 50% below regular prices.

By: W R Kirk

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Becoming a serious photographer can be quite an expensive proposition these days. With the advent of Digital Photography the prices have gone up considerably. We have to have a computer and three years for a computer is a long time. Software is an every other year expense. We need to replace our cameras to keep up with the technology. And the list goes on and on. Fortunately, our lenses do not need to be replaced as often provided we stick with the same camera manufacture. Technology has done wonderful things for our capabilities but at a price to our pocketbooks.

We need to do everything we possibly can to maximize our expenses. In short we need to get the most bang for our buck. One of the accessories that are an absolute requirement for our camera kit is filters. But what filters do we need? One that is an absolute necessity since it can’t be duplicated in the computer is the polarizer. Just like polarized sunglasses, the polarized filter reduces reflection and glare. It has the added benefit of adding saturation to our shots also which many of us desire. But is this all the polarizing filter does?

If you look closely at the specification sheet of any polarizing filter you will find that they usually cut light down by somewhere between one and a half to two stops. This can come in very handy when we are in one of those situations where there is just too much light.

So if money is tight or space is a major consideration, keep this little tidbit in mind. It’s not going to give you the latitude of a set of three ND filters but it will relieve you from spending anywhere between $50 and $200 for the time being. After all, how often do we need ND filters? They are an absolute necessity for very specific situations and usually ones that cause us great regret for not having them. But the Polarizer has saved me more than once.

By: Doug Loman

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After investing in a good camcorder, a sales person may suggest a lens filter for your new purchase. You wonder, are they just trying to make another sale or is there a justifiable reason for considering adding on a filter? Most of us aren’t professional videographers and have no intention of producing a feature film with our camcorder, but lens filters do have a purpose even for those of us who use a camcorder only for recreational purposes.

There are many types of filters for camcorder lenses, each with their own purpose but some of the most common may be of interest to the average consumer as a way of assuring better films and protecting their investment.

Protective filters

A clear filter can be used over the lens of the camcorder to protect it from dirt, fingerprints, and other debris which may scratch or otherwise damage the lens. Replacing a damaged filter is far less expensive than replacing the lens. Using a UV lens filters can also protect against damage from ultraviolet light. Protective lenses are often attached and remain on the camcorder throughout its lifetime.

Polarizing filters

A polarizing filter can act to reduce glare caused by reflected light that bounces off of surfaces such as glass, snow, and water. These camcorder lens filters are particularly useful when filming outdoors where it can be particularly difficult to control reflective light or when shooting a film through a window.

Neutral density filters

Attaching a neutral density filter on your camcorder can help to reduce over exposure in shots as they decrease the amount of light entering the lens. The darker grey the lens filter the more light they filter out and thus the darker the resulting images in the film.

Color correction filters

There are a variety of color correction or color compensating filters that can be used to create different effects. For instance, to make a sunset more red or an ocean more blue. As these tend to be used for more creative or artistic purposes these lens filters are used less frequently by the average consumer.

Diffusion filters

Both diffusion and fog filters on a camcorder can soften images. Diffusion filters in particular are used when filming up close shots of people to flatter their faces by softening any lines or imperfections on the skin.

Although many consumers do not opt to purchase additional accessories for their camcorder, lens filters can be very useful. While some provide a very affordable alternative for protecting expensive camcorder equipment, others allow users to produce better films with less overexposure and more creative effects.

By: Christine Peppler

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The video you capture when you press record is only as good as the sum of its parts – what’s happening on camera, and what’s happening behind it. There are certain ways to handle a camera that will take a little while to get used to, but if you master them you can go from shooting shaky, amateurish home videos to smooth and polished, professional-looking products.

Get a Grip!

Let’s discuss the best way to hold a camera in your hands, free from support of any kind. Unless you have a shoulder-mounted TV camera, it’s going to take more than one hand to stabilize. Most people simply slip their fingers through the hand strap and wave it around.

Let me explain something to you: your camera is not a magic wand.

People don’t make great videos by whipping their cameras around haphazardly and getting an epileptic’s-eye view of their scene.

Standard Camcorder Grip

If you’re shooting at eye level, the hand strap will allow you to keep a firm hold on the camera, but your off hand needs to be there too in order to keep it level. Put your hand through the strap and make sure it feels right. If you need to make it tighter or looser, put the camera down onto a flat surface and re-adjust the velcro, clasp or buckle.

Next, place your non-dominant hand on the bottom of the camera, using your thumb and fingers to support it. Your dominant, “grip” hand should be used to operate all the functions of the camera. Your thumb operates the record button and the on-off switch while your forefinger changes the zoom to frame your shots.

Loose Handle Grip

Certain shots may require you to be more flexible with the camera than the standard grip will allow. For instance, you might start with a low-angle shot and tilt or pedestal the camera into position. In a shot like this you can’t have your hand through the strap and your elbow extending out underneath – there’s simply not enough room between the camera and the ground!

A loose grip is maintained by again using your off-hand to support and cradle the camera, but this time the fingers on your dominant hand go down through the strap and wrap around it instead of coming up through the strap and wrapping around the camera.

When using a loose grip you may find that flipping out your camera’s LCD screen is not useful because the angle between you and the camera changes as you adjust your shot. Use the thumb and forefinger of your supportive off hand to adjust the tilt of the screen periodically, while keeping your other fingers beneath to support the camera.

Be One, My Son

Practice these two grips and pay close attention to your viewfinder or LCD screen and how the framed area moves as you hold the camera. Get used to balancing the weight of the camera in your hands so that even if you’re one of those fidgety people like me, you maintain a natural and composed grip.

Also be aware of your posture; you may even need to get on the ground and lie prone depending on the situation, but otherwise your steps and the arch in your back should allow the rest of your body movements to stay fluid and smooth.

Move It!

There are some specific terms that are used to describe the different camera movements, and we’ll go over them here. Each of these terms relates to moving the camera along the horizontal, vertical, or depth axis (x, y, or z) in relation to your subject. Descriptions of other terminology can be found in our handy and helpful glossary.

The Pan is when the camera pivots horizontally while it stays otherwise stationary. Imagine an invisible, vertical line going down through the top of your camera, allowing it to spin left or right around this axis. Panning is used to slide a shot from one person to another, to add action to a tense scene, or to introduce a new element that was previously outside the frame.

Tilt is an up-down movement where the frame changes vertically as the camera stays in place. It can be thought of just the same as a pan, except that the camera pivots along its horizontal x axis and the framed area moves from the “ground” to the “sky,” or vice versa. A tilt can show the base of a tree trunk all the way up to its tallest branches, or the foot of a giant, and extend up until you can see the top of the giant’s head.

A Dolly is physical movement of the camera toward or away from its subject. For example, there are scenes in movies that begin in outer space. The camera begins to dolly in and you see the galaxy, the solar system, the earth, the continent, the country, the city, the building, the person, etc. This would be an example of an extreme (and at least partially computer-generated) dolly. A normal dolly is just movement along the ground in relation to whatever is being filmed.

The Truck is the movement past or alongside an object. You might see a train moving at a high rate of speed with the camera trucking along beside it. A truck does not necessarily keep anything within a certain distance, but is simply the camera moving along a path while facing sideways. When you’re in the car and you look out the window, if your eyes were the camera they’d essentially be “trucking” along the scenery beside the road you’re on.

Pedestal shots are another movement of the camera in space, this time along the y axis. The same situations mentioned with the tilt movements above could be applied to the pedestal shot, except that instead of pivoting up and down to view the range of areas in the shot, the camera actually moves (rather than rotating) up and down from the bottom point to the top, or the opposite.

An Arc is a fairly difficult shot to pull off free-hand. This is when the camera rotates around its subject, keeping the same distance but changing the angle at which it views that subject. The slow-motion arcs in the Matrix movies are perhaps the best and most widely recognized example of this technique (although those were done with multiple cameras instead of just one).

Steady Now…

For a still shot you can always use a tripod or other flat surface to rest the camera on. Too many action shots in a row can get kind of overwhelming, so for quieter or more relaxed moments in your video you’ll want to throw in plenty of good old “picture frame” moments. The camera – along with your viewer – can just rest there, in place, and soak in what’s going on.

A good, sturdy tripod will let you get a smooth pan or tilt, but for any other movements you could benefit from a home-made steadicam or another type of weight. I like to use the pendulum metaphor, because it’s always true that adding weight to the bottom of an object stabilizes it and lowers its center of gravity.

The simplest way to do this with a camera is to fold up or retract the legs of your tripod and keep the camera mounted on it. This gives you a good amount of weight beneath it and will prevent it from wobbling around to as great a degree as it would otherwise. Using your grips we learned earlier, your support hand goes around the legs of the tripod instead of resting underneath the camera.

Practicing Is Awesome

Without an electronically operated crane or a professional train track dolly, you’re never going to get an absolutely flawless shot, but with practice and planning you can get pretty close. The key to good camera operation is to extend yourself into the camera and let it become an extension of your movements. Keep things fluid and smooth and you’ll be heading in the right direction, no matter where your camera is going!

By: Jay Staudt

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Perhaps not yet, but the handwriting might be on the wall…

How is a digital camera different from a film camera? What are pixels and why are they important? What’s the difference between optical and digital zoom? What advantages do digital cameras have compared to film cameras? Let’s address these and other questions as we discuss digital camera technology.

First a short history and overview of digital imaging…

The technology began with television in the early 1950′s when researchers discovered how to convert video images to electrical signals for storage on magnetic tape. In the 1970′s electronic still photo cameras were developed. These employed the first generations of solid-state image sensors. By the late 1980′s megapixel sensors were introduced – the technology that paved the way to today’s modern digital cameras.

Fundamentally, film and digital cameras do the same thing. Both utilize camera lenses to focus photographic images on a light sensitive medium where they are stored for later retrieval. But the way each camera does this is radically different.

Instead of capturing the image on film that must be developed and printed, digital cameras measure light and color characteristics using photodiodes built into a sensor – either a Charged Coupled Device (CCD) or Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS). An Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) then converts the signal to binary, or digital, code. This code is sent to a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) which adjusts photographic elements such as contrast and color, and compresses the file for storage in the camera’s memory, compact flash card, or other memory device.

Digital cameras have huge advantages when it comes to viewing and printing photos. It’s nearly instantaneous! We can immediately look at the picture on the camera’s LED screen, and if we don’t like it, delete it and shoot again. Or we download and view it on our computer’s monitor. And the pictures can be cropped or enhanced in minutes on the computer with photo software and printed with a photo printer. Plus many digital cameras have optional printer docks that don’t require a computer at all.

What’s a Pixel?

The human eye perceives a nearly infinite blending of light and color which high-quality film can approximate in a photograph. A digital image however, is a binary code file that records these variations as elements called pixels – short for picture elements.

Pixels are tiny squares of light and color, that when assembled create a mosaic. And like a mosaic, if the squares are small enough we see a smooth, photographic image. However, if the pixels are too big the transitions appear jagged or out of focus.

More pixels equal higher resolution and photos with clearer sharper detail, much like when you look at a mosaic with very small elements. For example, a 3 Megapixel digital camera can produce pretty good snapshots and even enlargements to about 8″ X 10″. But the more you enlarge, crop or otherwise manipulate the image, the larger the pixels become, degrading the photo’s quality.

Size Really Does Matter

The number of pixels the sensor produces is important, but so is the quality. The CCD sensors of many small digital cameras are about the size of a small fingernail, while some larger models will feature sensors up to about 1″ across. There are conflicting opinions about sensor type and size, and the technology is advancing. But in general it can be argued that the photodiodes in a tiny CCD probably won’t be as powerful or effective as an equal number in a larger sensor.

So unless your most important considerations are the smallest and/or cheapest camera, you’re likely to be happier with the picture quality from a slightly larger model, assuming both have the same number of pixels.

All Zooms Are Not Equal

The specs say the camera has 3X optical and 4X digital for a 12X total zoom. Sounds good, right? The answer is yes and no. Optical zoom works like a telescope, while digital zoom crops the picture. Using these zoom specs with our 3 megapixel camera example, here’s what happens.

Optical zoom brings the image 3X closer and uses all 3 million pixels. But digital zoom crops up to 75% of what the lens sees and the sensor is exposed to, so the photo now has about 750,000 pixels. Depending on lighting and other conditions, using full digital zoom may not even get you a good 4″ X 6″ print.

The Future of Digital Photography

The last few years have seen tremendous advancement in digital imaging technology. Some high-end digital cameras can now generate more than 12 million pixels and produce photos that rival medium-format film cameras. As with all electronic technology, it’s reasonable to expect even better cameras will come to the market over the next several years.

Photography “purists” will probably resist abandoning their film cameras as long as possible. But when comparing convenience, flexibility and quality, it seems inevitable that the majority of photographers will opt for digital over film photography – and probably sooner rather than later.

For more information on comparing features and finding the best digital camera to fit your photography style and budget, see Digital Camera Comparisons.

By: W R Kirk

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Making sure that you have a waterproof camera is a great idea both to make your photography capabilities more varied and flexible, especially when traveling, and also for specialist use, such as underwater or fishing photography.

There are two main waterproof camera alternatives. For the vast majority of people, a compact camera that is inherently waterproof will do. For advanced hobbyists and professionals, a digital SLR camera with underwater housing will be necessary.

A compact waterproof camera will be more than enough for most users, Very similar to normal digital cameras, all the gaskets of these gadgets are specially built, so you can use the same camera every day and also when you go swimming, diving or boating.

As for SLR, there are no waterproof cameras available with interchanging lenses, but this problem can be circumvented by buying a dedicated underwater housing. This will also allow you to use any existing equipment without having to get a completely new camera.

You need to be aware of the important differences between taking pictures on land and in or under water with a waterproof camera. The differences are mainly due to the different medium water or air. Water is far denser than air and light travels differently through it. It is also full of small particles such as plankton or sand, which reflect light. When underwater, it is better tot take pictures using the digital LCD and not the viewfinder. This will allow you more control of the results.

You will also use flashlights quite often, whether the inbuilt one on your waterproof camera or an external one. Without a flashlight, underwater pictures will tend to have little color or contrast. If you opt for a more powerful external flashlight, it will need to be built for underwater use or you will need an appropriate underwater housing for it as well.

To take underwater shots with a waterproof camera but without using a flashlight a lot, you will need to shoot when the sun is at its most luminous, around midday, and put the sunlight between you and your target.

On the other hand, the best shots of marine wildlife are often taken at night, when most fish are more active. But for that, you will need to bring powerful lighting equipment with your waterproof camera, such as an underwater speedlight.

Whatever the hour of your picture-taking, it is best to use your waterproof camera in shallow and rocky shores, or near coral reefs. These give best results and will provide you with lots of interesting subjects. Of course, you could also take pictures of your kids near the beach.

You should also acquaint yourself with the basic rules of maintenance for underwater photography equipment, to make sure that you will enjoy your waterproof camera for a long time. Always wash saltwater off with freshwater, for instance as salt reissue can damage waterproof gaskets and o-rings.

Do also avoid chemical cleaners – freshwater applied with a sponge or soft cloth are best and will allow you to take best care of your waterproof camera and equipment.

By: Randy Rushmore

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Are you looking for some helpful digital camera tips? If you love taking pictures, it is a good idea to find out everything there is to know about digital cameras and digital photography.

To begin with, it helps to know exactly what you need the camera for. That way you can determine which type you would be best to invest your money on. Are you a casual user? In other words, are you the type who loves to record memorable moments with family and friends during travels, parties and special events without fuss? You like to take pictures spontaneously without worrying about technical aspects of photography, so you want a device that’s portable and easy to use without having to worry about complicated settings and controls. If you happen to match this description, consider getting yourself a point-and-shoot camera.

Compact, or point-and-shoot, models are the most popular types sold in the market today. Compact in size but big in convenience, they are easy to use, portable and perfect for newbie users and camera enthusiasts alike. They are quite inexpensive and prices can start from as low as the affordable $100 range. They come set-up with automatic features that automatically adjust to various lighting conditions. They are capable of taking very decent photos, though it helps if you learn a few techniques to enhance your picture taking skills.

At the other end of the quality spectrum, there are the DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) models. If you are a true camera buff or a more serious hobbyist, you’ve probably had experience with digital cameras and would like to consider upgrading to a Digital SLR. These cameras offer more control than point-and-shoot cameras and are capable of producing higher quality images when used properly. They are flexible and can also be used with a variety of lenses, filters and flash units to maximize the camera’s capabilities. These gems are versatile, and can be used to take photos in all kinds of settings. They’re good for taking action or moving shots which is perfect for sporting events.

One thing about Digital SLR cameras – they are definitely heavier and bulkier than their leaner compact cousins. However, even if you have to carry the added weight of all that wonderful technology, it enables you to take great photos, so why not? The extra creative control can certainly be worth it.

With regard to price, they are definitely more expensive than the compact types. However, consider the expense as an investment in quality as you’re bound to use and enjoy your equipment much longer than you will with a compact type. DSLR cameras do not turn out new models twice a year unlike point-and-shoot models so you do not have to worry about your device getting obsolete. The lenses you buy will buy for them will likely be compatible with other camera bodies too, just in case you decide to upgrade later on. And the great thing is that you do not have to be an expert to use them, as many models offer features that make it easy for beginners to take pictures like a pro.

Should you buy a point-and-shoot or a DSLR camera?

Ask yourself the question: What pictures am I likely to take with my camera? Make a list of the different ways you intend to use it. Your reasons for getting one are probably different from mine so you are ultimately the only one who can answer that question.

Once you do your research and decide what’s right for you, get your own digital camera and enjoy taking pictures!

By: Pat Lyne

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I recently got married. On top of all the other preparations, I knew that I wanted to capture my honeymoon, a trip to St. Lucia, in a way that would stand the test of time. Even though I don’t have an HD TV in my house, I wanted to shoot my honeymoon in such a way that when I did get one, my honeymoon memories would look as pristine as possible.

Here are the top things I thought about.

As a professional video producer, I have bought a lot of video equipment. I purposely pay a premium and buy from a professional photo/video store. Why? Because they support what they sell. Not just the warranty. But the questions you have both before and after the purchase. 9 times out of 10, the staff has used the camera in the way I intend to and therefore can answer all my questions. This isn’t something you get at a Big Box store. They want to get you in and out as quickly as possible and other than the main functions, they leave you to figure out all the details. Also, when you have a problem, given they haven’t used the camera beyond turning it on, they won’t be able to answer the more complex questions that inevitably arise. You then get stuck dealing with the manufacturer over the phone which can’t compare to hands on assistance.

The second most important thing to keep in mind is that while there may be an HD on the side of the camera, the quality of the video is not a standard. There are all sorts of different data rates that can be called HD. You need to determine how you are going to use the video you shoot, what data rate will be overkill and what will be necessary.

In my case, because I also planned to use the camera for work, I wanted a high data rate that would come close to my pro gear so that I had a better chance of using the footage from both and not have a huge discernible difference in quality.

Do not underestimate the importance of camera size in your decision. When I got engaged, I took my bride-to-be to Las Vegas and proposed at midnight in front of the Bellagio fountains during the final performance of the dancing fountains while the Star Spangled Banner played. I was lucky enough to have brought a pocket size camera. I actually have both pictures and video shot from the same camera. Memories I would not have if the camera was too big. While better than a cell phone camera, the quality wasn’t great, but it was capturing the memory that was most important, not the number of pixels it captured. In this case, something was far better than nothing.

In the case of my honeymoon, I wanted something better. Everything is a trade off. Because I wanted to use this while away, I still wanted something easy and small. But I also wanted a high enough data rate. I chose one that shot far superior video that the pocket size camera’s but was still small enough to be convenient. AND, it actual shoots amazing 3 Mpixel stills to boot!

The final thing you have to know is that the camera will work with your computer. Is it PC only? Does it support Mac too? Does it come with all the software you need or does it have to be purchase separately? Buying from a specialty shop meant that I could actually bring my computer to my supplier and connected the camera I intended to buy. It allowed me to confirm that it would work BEFORE I purchased it. Big Box stores are simply not setup to do this, and with their margins being so small, they aren’t motivated to provide that level of service.

I hope this gives you a running start at a great choice that best suits your intended use.

By: Warren Leppik

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Nikon digital camera has proved to be a quality rich camera and has been the premium choice of many professional photographers. The digital cameras by Nikon are equipped with all the advanced technologies that would capture striking photographs. Some of the popular models in Nikon cameras by Nikon are the D 3000, D40, D90 and Cool pix L18. These models are built with features such as auto focus system, image stabilizer, video recording, optical viewfinder and even USB connectivity.

The basic advantage of a digital camera is that as soon as an image is clicked it can be viewed and you do not have to wait for the photos to get printed. The Nikon cameras come with the special feature of memory cards. This feature allows you to click any number of images and save it in the digital cameras itself. As these cameras come with the facility of USB connections so you can even attach the memory cards to a laptop and transfer the images to get a better view.

Lenses play an important part in getting desired images. Different types of advanced and quality lenses are used in the digital cameras offered by Nikon that take clear and crisp images. With the use of the latest D3000 camera lenses you can enjoy a more realistic and sharp image. As the camera lenses are interchangeable so one should be careful while buying a camera. The Nikon lenses enjoy being the preferred choice of professional photographers as with the help of these lenses they can experiment with photography.

Shutter covers are also a vital part in both digital and old film based cameras. The camera shutter helps in capturing an image with the right exposure and effect of light. Nikon camera offers best quality shutter covers that efficiently control the light that passes though the aperture when clicking. Due to this working of the shutter covers we hear the clicking sound after the shoot button is pressed inside the camera. In a camera the shutter before clicking, covers the sensor and when the shoot button is released the shutter leaves move gradually to let enough light pass through them.

Nikon offers highly affordable and cheap camera that would easily fit in your pocket. With these cameras you can take images anywhere irrespective of speed and fast moving objects. The images taken from these cameras will always come sharp and with best picture quality. This consistency in the quality of images has made Nikon the best seller.

By: Aditi Malhotra

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