Hobbies And Interests
Image Capture and Media Storage
The major difference in digital cameras from their film predecessors is the method used to preserve the images once captured. In place of film, a digital camera uses a special sensor that captures light and transfers it to data represented by digital pixels. Pixels are tiny dots or visual representations of data that create the photo. The image is then stored in the camera on a removable digital media card, which acts as a hard drive for the camera to store images. Digital cameras vary in the size and quality of the sensor used to create this image. A larger sensor allows more data to be stored per image, making a larger image file and a clearer picture. This is particularly important for professional photographers and people wishing to enlarge their digital images into physical prints.
Point and Shoot Technology
Point and shoot digital cameras, also referred to as compact cameras, dominate the consumer camera market. These small cameras are designed for simplicity and mobility and are used to capture many of the everyday moments of our lives. Be sure to select a compact camera that is easy to understand, offers creative options like special image toning or close-up photography and provides an image file of four megabytes or higher. This file size allows you to print images for photo albums and home decor at an average size with little problem.
Digital Single-Lens Reflex
For the more advanced photographer, a digital single-lens reflex camera provides the opportunity to learn about the craft and accessorize the camera as your skill set improves. A digital single-lens reflex, also referred to as a DSLR, uses interchangeable lenses and a viewfinder to compose the image. The viewfinder is located at the back of the camera and allows you to see the complete image frame to create your picture. Most digital point and shoots do not use a viewfinder and people compose the photo by using the LCD screen on the back of the camera. A DSLR also captures a larger image and can provide a multitude of image exposure settings, from fully automatic settings to manual adjustments. A variety of DSLRs are available for many budgets and skill levels.
Computer Workflow and Data Storage
The computer workflow is a vital element of using digital photography technology properly. Your computer should have ample space to store your images and must have at least one USB connection or appropriate media card slots to transfer images from your camera to the computer. The computer can act as a simple archive device for your images or as a digital darkroom for editing you photographs for printing or publishing. Be sure that you store your digital image archive in an additional location away from your computer, such as an external hard drive or DVD discs, in case the computer crashes or malfunctions and loses data.