Wednesday, June 9

what kind of camera do you use?

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It’s a question I’ve been asked many times.  And one that I’ve asked, to be honest.   When I am asked this question.  I always answer.   When I ask this question, with few exceptions, (love you, Traci!), I usually get an answer along the lines of, “it isn’t the camera that makes the difference, it’s the photographer.”    (Has this ever happened to you?)

And I get it, I do.  I know some people really think the only thing you need for a good photo is a good camera.  I recently posted photos of my daughter to my Facebook page.  Several people asked me what camera I used because “it takes such nice pictures”.   They seem surprised that I haven’t changed cameras in a few years, since my photos have improved.  The only reason for that is because I make a conscious effort to take a LOT of photos and to keep learning more about photography.  The fact is, a camera doesn’t make a photograph anymore than a computer writes a great novel.  

The camera is a tool, and some cameras have certain features that you may or may not need.  I am interested in upgrading my camera and learning about what’s out there so I can make a good choice.  Right now, I am between two camera choices, and so I am asking everyone who has them what the pros and cons are. So I say – go ahead and ask.   The worst that can happen is that they don’t tell you.  

Which brings me to my next photo tip.  Take out your camera and play with it.  Even the simplest point and shoots now have settings you can adjust to take better photos.  The truth is, some of the photos I have posted with my point and shoot have gotten as much reaction as the ones I take with the DSLR.  For example, the truck photo in the field of flowers a few posts back, and the Christmas tree shots back in December.  So take out your camera at a time when getting the shot isn’t crucial, and play with those different settings.  You will miss a few shots, learn a few things, and hopefully, have some fun in the process.

Happy shooting!

Best,

Stephanie

6 comments:

  1. Fabulous tips lady...especially for us novices!!

    p.s. In case you hadn't heard...Our blog has moved! We would love for you to visit us at our new site: http://www.bonbonrosegirls.com/
    Unfortunately, if you followed us with Google Friend Connect you'll have to re-follow but everything else is the same! Hugs, K

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  2. I am ask this same question all the time too, Stephanie.

    The last couple of posts I've done, with macro, had photos from both the DSLR and the Canon G11. The little yellow flowers in the most recent are done with the G11..basically point and shoot with a couple of bells and whistles. The G11 photos tend to print up to 8x10, but I've had a problem getting them larger. Still playing with that camera too. It isn't as technical as my DSLR, but fun to carry around, just in case.

    I am on the hunt for a better macro lens, at the moment.

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  3. Words of wisdom Stephanie and so true....I have even had great photos from my iphone. It is all in the moment...as a rule I always take at least three shots of people and several angles of various scenes. Sometimes it is the one you least expect that is the best and you can't forget the joys of editing!

    Great post, as always!!

    jeanne :)

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  4. Great advice, Stephanie. I had to chuckle when I read your bit about people asking what kind of camera you use thinking it must JUST BE THE CAMERA. lol I've been trying different settings with my camera ever since you emailed me with those handy tips a while back. It's so much fun! :o)

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  5. great post stephanie. you know i'm a canon girl. all their cameras are good. you grow as a photographer and at time the camera has to grow with you.

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  6. Perhaps if I used anything other than my iPhone camera, your tips would come in handy. Or perhaps I should allow my husband to buy me one. But I do have a tendency to lose things, you know.

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