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Photography For Beginners Issue 44 - 2014 UK
Photography For Beginners Issue 44 - 2014 UK
Photography For Beginners Issue 44 - 2014 UK
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Essential guides for Cameraphone | Compact | DSLR | Compact System Camera | iPad
SHOOT THE
NIGHT SKY
Discover how to capture the
moon, Milky Way and more
4 STEPS TO BETTER
Black
&White
Shootingadvice Strikingcompositions
Monochromestyles Editwithease
SAMSUNG
CAMERA W
300
ORTH
Capture
this shot on
Page 31
Welcome
5 essential skills Black and white photography is fantastic for capturing
you will learn the world in a unique way. Turn to page 18 to nd
in this issue out how to shoot without colour and re-create
artistic monochrome styles for your shots.
01 MONOCHROME TIPS On page 28, learn more creative photo
Shoot and edit your best-ever techniques and be inspired by our 10 outdoor
black and white photos on p18 projects, with something to try every season.
02 OUTDOOR PROJECTS To keep discovering our top photo tips and
Go outside and try our creative projects, make sure you subscribe to our digital
photo techniques on p28 editions. Photography For Beginners will now be
03 CREATE A FLIPBOOK a digital-only magazine, available to download
Find out how to bring your onto your Apple and Android devices each
action shots to life on p38 month. Visit www.greatdigitalmags.com to
04 SHOOT THE NIGHT SKY subscribe today.
On p56, learn how to shoot the
moon and stars in easy steps Dan Hutchinson
05 EDIT FOR FREE
Turn to p62 and master free Editor in chief
photo-editing program Picasa Follow us at @PFBMag
06 Your photos
A gallery of our talented readers photos
10 Win PhotoStory Deluxe
Enter our latest competition to win
12 How to share your photos
The best ways to share your shots with us
14 Cameraphone innovations
and all the latest photography news
17 Win a Samsung NX mini
And memory cards for three runners-up
46 50% off Digital Photographer
Fantastic offers when you subscribe to DP
78 Your questions answered
Your photo problems solved by the team
82 Get to know your camera
Quick start guide to using your camera
18
84 Latest cameras reviewed
Which one is right for you?
94 Flash accessories
Clever gadgets for attering lighting
96 Canvas printing services
Steps to better
Display your best photos in style
98 Panning cheat sheet
Capture creative motion blur for impact
Master
56 black & white
Shoot and edit a monochrome masterpiece
astrophotography
Get to grips with the basics
of this fascinating genre
48
Retro still life
Add a vintage effect to your shots
WHAT THE ICONS MEAN Your quick-start guide to all the icons youll see in Photography for Beginners
Cameraphone: Compact:Small, DSLR: Usually more Compactsystem Shutterspeed:The Aperture: The depth
Smartphonesthat low-costandeasy- expensive, but camera:Goodimage timeyourshutteris of field of an image,
arealwayswithyou to-usecameras good image quality quality,lightweight openfor,inseconds as an f-number
46 TM
GET MONE
OFF ISSU
ssue 44
28
10 outdoor
SHOOT
18 Better black and white
Easy steps to striking monochrome shots
28 Outdoor projects
10 ideas to kickstart your imagination
projects to 36 Improve indoor images
tryInspiring
today! ideas for
5 tips for working with tricky lighting
38 Make a fun photo ipbook
practising fun and Capture the action and bring it back to life
creative techniques
42 Write your name with light
Set up and shoot oating text
44 Story behind the shot
Creative indoor portrait secrets revealed
48 Still life with a theme
Give your photos some character
50 Low light smartphone tricks
Prevent blurry and grainy shots at night
54 App of the month
Add retro effects with the Afterlight app
Use natural light Capture reections Create symmetry
on p31 on p31 on p35
56 Master astrophotography
Shoot stunning images of the night sky
EDIT
62 Complete guide to Picasa
Enhance your shots with free software
70 Remove blemishes
50
Perfect your portraits with simple tools
Take low-light
..
portraits on p50
on m t.
ag .co a
BM rs s
PF ne t
or in o
...
h f eg sh
Your photos
Take inspiration from some of our
favourite photos sent in by our
readers this month
WIN!
A Sams
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Every is
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ung inne
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Reader:
Sian Humphrey Reader: Des O'Connor
Stunt Bike Tree Sparrow
This was taken at "This was captured along the
Bournemouth Wheels East Coast near Flamborough,
Festival. This jumper was Yorkshire.
about 30ft off the ground. Shot on: Canon EOS 60D,
Shot on: Canon EOS 350D, 100-400mm lens @ 400mm,
ISO 320, f8, 1/1000sec ISO 320, f7.1, 1/100sec
Reader: Reader:
Karen Rich Simon Millward
Tiny Frog Sunset At Bournemouth Beach
I found this little guy in my This was taken looking
backyard and hurried to towards Bournemouth beach
capture a shot before he from Boscombe using a tripod
could leap away. and ND graduated lters.
Shot on: Pentax K-30, Shot on: Nikon D3200,
18-55mm lens @ 55mm, ISO 18-55mm lens @ 18mm,
200, f7.1, 1/100sec ISO 200, f22, 1/8sec
Sh
Reader: Neil Piper
your shaore
ts at Reader: Silvia Li
Title: Golden Horizon pho toforbeg Title: Framed
or search inners.com
PFBMag o
n
Instant connection
Near Field Communication
(NFC) lets you wirelessly
connect the two devices by
simply tapping them together.
Power supply
The QX1 contains its own
battery, capable of taking up to
400 shots, so it wont drain
your phones power.
Thismonthonphotoforbeginners.com
Create a fun self-portrait How to shoot backlit macro PLUS ALL THIS
Instead of the traditional pose and Almost anything can serve as a great How to photograph a
pout sele, get creative and produce photo subject, even your leftover fruit miniature scene
something unique. Follow our guide and veg from the kitchen. We will Tips for starting a
and discover clever editing tricks to show you how lighting your subject photo project
make it look as though you are really from behind can help you bring out Exciting competitions
colouring yourself in. more detail for stunning close-ups. and the latest news
Discover fun
photo projects
Take incredible photos in just ve minutes
Finding the time to practise your striking action shots. By following our
photography skills can be difcult, so practical advice and step-by-step
many cameras are often left to collect tutorials, you can produce your
dust in the corner instead of being put best-ever images in minutes.
to good use. To help you juggle your The 5 Minute Practical Projects book
daily life and learn new photo is available to download now onto your
techniques, we have put together the iOS device for just 1.99/$2.99. First,
5 Minute Practical Projects book. download the free Photography For
Inside, you will discover quick and easy Beginners app and then simply
guides for taking fantastic photos, purchase this new special edition
from vivid landscapes and stunning within it. For more information, visit
still life, to perfect portraits and www.greatdigitalmags.com.
02 YouCam
Perfect app
Web: www.cyberlink.com
Price: Free
This Android and iOS app from
CyberLink aims to help you
shoot and edit the perfect sele.
Smooth skin, add frames and
lters and even apply make-up.
03 Eye
Cloud
photoforbeginners.com
IN!
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SHOOT IN RAW
SMOOTH QUALITY
For the best quality
shots, set your ISO to
the lowest value
possible to avoid any
digital grain.
Correct exposure
04 Achieving the perfect
exposure is particularly
important for black and white
images. Dark shadows and
blown-out highlights will be even
more obvious when the colour is
removed, appearing as
featureless areas of plain black or
bright white in your photos. In
auto and semi-manual modes FIX OVEREXPOSED
your camera will expose your PHOTOS
shots for you, but if youre not Setting your exposure compensation to a
happy with the results then there negative value will allow you to rescue
is an easy way to override it. overexposed images with missing detail.
Exposure compensation lets you
easily brighten up or darken your
shot with a simple scale for
instant results.
Choosing
monochrome
subjects
What to look for when
deciding what to shoot
You can produce brilliant black and white
shots with almost any genre of photography,
from landscapes and portraits to wildlife and Look for contrast Find patterns
still life. However, there are certain things you Contrast between shadows and highlights and the Striking patterns will look just as engaging without
different colour tones in your image will help to colour as they will naturally feature contrasting
should look for to ensure your captures look separate the different parts of your image when colours and shapes. Look for patterns that catch
truly striking without colour there is no colour, creating a more interesting image. your eye and see what they look like in monochrome.
Colour adjustments
Enhance specic tones in your shot by
attaching coloured lters to your camera,
or by adjusting the tones individually
when you convert with editing software.
Green lter
To darken red and blue tones in your
image and boost the contrast between
the green hues in your photo, increase
the greens with a lter or when editing.
Blue lter
An increase in the blue tones in your
photo will make reds and greens appear
darker but also brighten up the blues,
leaving cloudy blue skies lacking contrast.
Monochrome styles
Achieve classic black and white
effects for artistic images
There is a lot more to black and white
photography than simply removing the colour
from your shots. The genre has its own set of
creative styles that can each give your images
an entirely new look. Re-creating these effects
can really help to enhance your images and
complement your subject, adding more impact
to make your photo really stand out from the
crowd. There are lots of different monochrome
styles to experiment with, but here we will show
you some of the most popular. Some can be
achieved in-camera, but others will require a
bit of editing to achieve perfect results. So
grab your camera and computer and try out
some of our creative projects.
STUNNING HIGH-KEY
High-key photos are generally very bright, with
plain white backdrops and very few areas of
shadow. This style of image is not reserved for
black and white photography, but due to the
abundance of white in the frame, it looks
particularly effective without any colour at all.
Typically used for shooting portraits and still
life, high-key photography requires you to
overexpose the background of your shot.
Position your subject against a bright
background with the light behind them, then
switch to Aperture Priority mode and use a
small f-number to ensure that your camera
captures as much light as possible. If the
background of your shot still doesnt look
completely overexposed, set your exposure
compensation to a positive value to brighten it
up even more.
Duplicate
the layer
01 Open your
image and go
to Layer>Duplicate
Layer. Convert the
top layer to black
and white and then
add a layer mask in
the Layers panel.
Colour it in
02 Select the
Brush tool
then set the colour
to black and the
Opacity to 100%. You
can now paint over
your subject to
reveal the coloured
layer underneath.
Convert coloured
captures to black
and white
Edit tricks for creating
your best-ever
monochrome images
If you have taken your photo in colour, then
you can really take your time with your black
and white conversion to ensure that your
image has as much impact as possible. You
can also fix exposure to make sure your ORIGINAL
shots wont be left with any bright white or
black patches, and apply some sharpening
to make sure as much detail as possible is have o
visible. However, if youre in a hurry or just Alternatively, you could use an app on your
dont fancy spending lots of time in front of smartphone or tablet that will allow you to
your computer, then most editing programs apply instant monochrome effects.
Convert to black and white Adjust the levels Control the curves
01 To remove the colour from your photo,
go to Enhance>Convert to Black and
White. Select the style that best suits your
02 To adjust the tones in your photo
some more, go to Enhance>Adjust
Lighting>Levels. Move the arrows underneath
03 Next go to Enhance>Adjust Color>
Adjust Color Curves and set the style
to Default. Boost the Midtone Contrast slider
shot, then experiment with adjusting the the histogram graph until you see a bit more to add some denition to your shot, and use
colour tones and contrast until you are happy. detail appear in the shadows and highlights. the other sliders to x any exposure issues.
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SHOOTING
10 outdoor projects
10 outdoor
Natures colours
Any landscape will make a
great subject for this project,
but including a tree in your
composition will help you
show the changing colour of
projects to
the leaves.
try today
Get outside and capture creative
images of any scene with our
practical projects
The great outdoors is a wonderful scenes with creative motion blur.
source of inspiration for your Discover how to capture stunning
photography. There is so much to photos of the local wildlife, and
see and shoot that you will never fantastic action shots in the open
run out of opportunities to practise air. Theres also top advice for
your skills and produce stunning photographing water creatively, plus
shots. Better still, the outside world a step-by-step guide for making your
is constantly changing, from year to portrait subject look as through they
year, season to season, and even are floating in mid-air.
day to day, so you can revisit the First though, prepare for your
same spot again and again yet outdoor adventures with our top tips
always produce a different shot. for planning ahead and making sure
With so many potential photo you make the most of each outing.
subjects available, it can be difficult Then we will kick off the outdoor
to decide exactly what to shoot, so projects by showing you how to
we have put together a few photo capture the changing seasons with
project suggestions for you to try. a spectacular photomontage. If
No matter what time of year it is, youre struggling to get motivated,
there will be something fun and you could even challenge yourself to
creative in these pages for you to complete all ten in a set period of
have a go at. We will show you how time, ticking them off as you go. So
to take atmospheric portraits in low pick up your camera, head outside,
light, using lens flare to your and start capturing your best-ever
advantage, and shoot striking street images today.
Set a
re
To help yo
m inder
u remember to
each ph take
oto
reminde graph, set up
r on you a
prompt r phone
you whe to
season n th
changes e
1. Record
the seasons
Create a photomontage of the
ever-changing landscape
As the seasons change, so does the landscape,
with each spectacular vista looking completely
different from one month to the next. To show this
change, take a photo from the same spot every
three months. Once you have four photos, compile
them into a collage or photomontage to show the
seasons changing in one fascinating image. Many
editing programs have handy functions for
combining your shots automatically, or you could
use an app on your smartphone or tablet to make it
even simpler. Alternatively, you could take your Precise composition previous
When you take a new shot, bring the
photos more regularly and turn them into a you so that you can line it up exactly
one with
the same. A tripod will help with this.
time-lapse video using movie editing software or an
app. This will allow you to speed up the change to
show a whole year in just a few seconds.
with nature
eye ou t for inte
patterns resting
, tex
that will tures and details
show up
photogra in your
phs
may have but others
missed
3. Shoot an
atmospheric
portrait
Use natural light to create
a dreamy photo
Natural light is often the most flattering for
portraits, but certain times of day are better for
shooting than others. For example, the hours just
before sunset and just after sunrise are ideal. As
the sun is low in the sky, it casts a
lovely soft light across the scene Pick your settings
To capture plenty of light and
that can improve almost any
blur the background, use Portrait
outdoor photo. Position your portrait Bright an mode or switch to Aperture
subject so that the sun is behind beautifu d Priority and pick a small f-number.
them to prevent them from If your s l
dark, re ubject appears
your as to
squinting in your shots, but try to light, or h to ll in o
use a re the
bounce it ec tor
include the sun in the background back into to
their fac
of your photo. This will cause some e
creative lens flare and reduce the
contrast in your photo, giving it an
atmospheric, dreamy quality and
naturally softening their skin.
4. Include
reections
Use water and windows to
enhance your shots
If youre taking photos near still water, buildings with
windows or any other shiny surface, look to see if
there is anything reflected in it. This can present you
with fantastic photo opportunities for producing
creative shots. For example, a landscape reflected in
a lake will allow you to duplicate the scene and make
your photo twice as great, while a window-covered
building means that you can capture more of your
surroundings in one shot. You could even take a
portrait of someone reflected in a window, or capture
a mirror image in a puddle on the ground.
5. Capture a striking
street scene
Control blur to record the hustle and
bustle of urban life
Even busy towns and cities make great
places to practise your photography
skills. As well as shooting the local
architecture, you can also capture
people going about their everyday lives
or pluck up the courage to ask a
stranger to pose for you. There are
several different techniques you can try
out in urban areas, including flexing your
black and white photo skills with help
from our guide on page 18. If you want
to take some candid street shots, then
you will need to master the art of
shooting undetected and be able to
control the appearance of blur in your
photos. Follow our guide to find out how.
Stre
portraeitts
If you wa
6. Track wild
creatures
portrait nt to take a p
o ose
ask their f a stranger, polit d
permiss ely
offer to ion a
send the nd then
photo as m the
a thank
you
Photograph amazing
animals in the wild
With their unpredictable and wary nature, wild animals are
notoriously difficult to capture on camera. However, this is what
makes it so rewarding when you do manage to get a great shot.
There are a few tricks that you can keep up your sleeve
to improve your chances too. Planning ahead and
researching your subject will help you be in the
right place at the right time, and you can
always entice them into view with some
Avoid
For sharp
blur
food. Use your zoom to get great close-ups shots, u
scene se an ac
ti
from a distance and also make sure that camera mode or set yo on
to Shutt ur
er Priority a
you keep as still and quiet as possible so as use a sh
utte nd
1/250se r speed of
not to scare them off. c or faste
r
Shoot handheld
When taking photos on the
street, stay clear of using a
tripod so that you can move
around easily and avoid
getting in peoples way.
7. Make your
subject oat
Take a creative portrait
with a difference
There are all sorts of fun ideas you can use to spice
up your portrait shots, plus it will help to keep your
subject entertained during the shoot. You could do
something simple such as introduce props, for
example flowers or a hat, or try wacky poses like
jumping in the air. However, if you want to get really
creative then you can employ some editing tricks
too. In just a few clever steps, its easy to make
your subject appear as though they are floating in
mid-air. All you need is a stool for them to sit or
stand on, and some editing software for removing
the support later. You could even get your subject
to hold balloons or an umbrella to really enhance
the floating effect.
Keep it
s
If the ba
imple
c
photo is kground of your
should o really simple, yo
nly u
shot and need to take o
rem ne
in editin ove the stool
g softwa
re
Take the rst shot now capture the second Then remove the stool
Find a simple backdrop for your shot. Next, stay where you are but get your Open the background image in editing
Set your camera on a tripod or sturdy model to move out of the frame and software, then place the other photo
surface and take a photo of your take the stool with them. Now take a on top. Add a layer mask then brush
subject sitting or standing on a stool. photo of the empty backdrop. over the stool with a black brush.
8. Smooth To avoid
Keep it
sharp
jogging the
moving water
and cau camera
sing
the shutt blur when you
er, use a re
shutter remote
re
activate lease or
self-time
r
9. Look for
symmetry
Line it up for a pleasing photo
10. Take
A really easy way to create an engaging photo is to make it
symmetrical. Of course, this requires you to find a subject or scene
with perfect symmetry, but that is much easier than you might
an action
shot
think. Examples of symmetry can regularly be found in
architecture, as structures are typically built with perfect
proportions. However, you could also look out for symmetrical
subjects in nature too, as examples can sometimes be found in
flowers and plants. When composing your shot, position your
subject in the centre for maximum impact, switching on your
Freeze movement for
cameras gridline display if you need help lining things up. striking split-second shots
Photography is great for revealing things that we
might otherwise miss with the naked eye, and
action shots are a perfect example. By using an
action scene mode or a fast shutter speed in
Shutter Priority mode, you can freeze any
movement within the frame to record a split-
second of action too quick for you to register. To
practise this technique, try photographing a
sporting event or even a vehicle in motion.
Alternatively, you could take an action portrait,
getting your subject to jump or run around or
throw some leaves in the air.
Prevent colour
casts from
appearing in
your shots by
changing your
cameras white
balance setting
36 Photography for Beginners Share your shots at: photoforbeginners.com
WATCH
NOW
I N S P IR IN G P OR TRA ITS
Learning lighting can be an inspiring
experience when you have the right
lights...and the right teacher.
;VUKV\[OV^[OPZPTHNL^HZ
lit watch the video online.
TeamBOWENS.com
%RZHQVFRXN
SHOOTING
Create a ipbook
Control
the burslett you
Some cameras
nt burst
choose dif fere
e one that
speeds. Pick th
pace of
best suits the
are
the action you
shooting
Your camera is a fantastic tool for capturing motion with your static action shots. If you take a WHAT YOULL NEED
eeting moments so that you can preserve them burst of images showing the change of position of Digital camera
Editing software
forever. Whether its your childs rst steps, a your subject, you can then display them in a Internet connection
runner crossing the nish line or a skateboarder ipbook to replay the moment. As you quickly ick
mid-jump, you can control the shutter speed to through the pages of your book, youll see a sort of WE USED
Nikon D3200
freeze them in the frame and snap a split-second stop-motion animation sequence of the action as Photoshop Elements
of action that you may even have missed with your it happened. Of course, you could always create an Snapsh.co.uk
own eyes. The only problem with action shots is actual animation from your photos, using video
YOU COULD USE
that although they look impressive, they can also editing software or one of our recommended apps Any digital camera
appear a little static, not really conveying the over the page to quickly play one shot after the GIMP
Vistaprint.co.uk
speed and movement of your subject. You could other and create a fun movie from your shots. Printer
overcome this by using a slightly slower shutter Over the next few pages, we will show you how
speed that records some motion blur, showing to shoot a series of dynamic action shots and edit WHAT YOULL LEARN
How to shoot a series of
that there was indeed some movement in front of them with Photoshop Elements. You can then action shots
the lens, or even employ the panning technique in follow our guide to turn your sequence of images How to x common
photo problems
which you swivel the camera with your subject to into a fun ipbook with help from Snapsh. How to create your own
create some directional background blur. However, However, if youre feeling crafty, well also show you photo ipbook
there is a way that you can re-create a sense of how to make it yourself at home.
3 OF THE BEST
Time-lapse
apps
Hyperlapse Free (iOS)
This app from the makers of
Instagram lets you lm the action and
then speed up your video to condense
it down into just a few seconds.
Add captions
05 Rotate your images and add captions,
or you can tick the I dont want
captions box. When you click continue, you
will be able to preview your ipbook before
adding it to your cart and ordering it.
Learn to write
five WHAT YOULL NEED
minute Camera with manual
project controls
Light source
with light
WE USED
Canon EOS 5D III with
24-70mm
Sparkler
Tripod
Master the art of light painting with our A torch or LED light
air during your photo, its important to rst that it appears the correct way around in the
make sure that all nearby ammable objects nal image.
LED light
If you cant get hold of any sparkers, another
alternative you can always try is using a bright LED
light, just like the ones that are found on the back
of most smartphones.
Story
behind
the shot
Photographer James Sheppard tells
us the story behind his creative
indoor portrait
How did this lovely photo How did you set up
come about? the photograph?
I had just bought a new gadget for my This was taken in my living room at
camera called a Ring Flash and I really home. I wanted to take a simple and
wanted to try it out. It attaches to your understated portrait, so I attached a
cameras flashgun and produces a big piece of black card to the wall to
nice, even coverage of light to serve as a backdrop. This helped me
eliminate the unflattering shadows avoid capturing any distracting clutter
typically caused by direct flash, making that would have drawn attention away
it ideal for portraits. I asked my good from my subject. As the ring flash is
friend Jackie if she would pose for me quite powerful, I didnt need any
and we spent a fun afternoon taking additional lighting, which was useful as
lots of really cool shots. the room was quite dark.
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WE USED
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Photoshop Elements
Move your
subject away
from the Lighting tips
cameraphone
slightly to
decrease the
and tricks
harshness of its
ash. You can How to make more of
always crop in
slightly later if light for night-time shots
needed
Obviously the biggest challenge when
shooting at night is the lack of light, and it's
this that causes shots to be blurry. The
cameraphone will try to compensate for the
low light by using a slower shutter speed,
which leaves the shutter open longer and
allows the sensor to capture more light. This
means any movement in the scene will
cause blur, though. Clearly the best way to
avoid this is to create more light, meaning
the shutter speed can be faster. This can be
as simple as moving your subject into a
better-lit area, such as underneath a street
lamp, or nearer to a floodlit building. Your
Using an accessory such as this Nova camera's flash can also be useful here, but
wireless ash can increase your phone's note that it won't be powerful enough to
ash ability, and can even be used help illuminate far-away subjects and it can
off-camera to help you control the direction
and intensity of the light
be a little harsh up close. You could try
putting a piece of paper in front of it to
soften it a little, or a very useful accessory is
an attachable LED light. These are much
more flattering and can be controlled more
with adjustable power to suit the situation.
Night Modes
Remove Sharpen 1.49/$1.99 (iOS)
This app could extend
red-eye
04 Back in the your camerapones
exposure time up to one
sliders icon,
03 Tap on the second, letting you
capture brighter images more easily.
eye icon at select Sharpen and it Please note, however, that some
will zoom in on your phones only let you take up to
the bottom, select half-second exposures.
People or Pets picture. In portraits,
depending on your you want the eyes in Night Camera (Android)
Free (Android)
subject, and then particular to be sharp, An app that reduces
noise and minimises blur
select Red Eye Auto so move the image for great night-time
Detect & Correct. If until you can see captures, Night Camera
for Android works based on taking
this doesnt nd the them clearly. Move multiple exposures and combining
them. It comes with 11 different
red-eye in your the slider to the right shooting modes to try.
Add dust Create light leaks Apply a frame Save and share
05 Add dust effects by
selecting the lm icon at
the bottom and Dusty. You can
06 Create retro light-leak
effects by scrolling
through the options and selecting
07 Add a frame by selecting
the frame icon and
choosing a style. Use the slider to
08 Now select Done and
choose a resolution to
save at. You can opt to save your
customise its effect using the one. You can tailor it by changing control the size and change the image to your Camera Roll or
slider and tabs along the top. colours and adjusting its position. frame colour at the top. share it via social media.
Perseve
Always g
o
rance!
the wea out, no matter
ther. wha
changes Even the slighte t
produce in conditions c st
dra an
more oft matic images. T
en yo he
the more u head out,
lik
are to ge ely you
t gre
results! at
Camera with manual A light but sturdy tripod Remote shutter release
Look for a camera that has manual You will need a tripod that is sturdy A remote shutter release will let you
modes so you can set shutter speed enough to withstand a fair breeze, but open the shutter without touching the
and aperture. A DSLR or CSC gives you light enough so that its not dangerous camera. It also allows you to achieve
more control than a compact. to lug around on dark nights! longer-duration exposures.
Wide-angle lens
When photographing an astroscape, or
landscape astrophotograph, try to use a very
wide lens/short focal length to fit in as much
of the sky and the stars as possible.
Visit during the day Set up your shot Pick your settings Shoot your frames
A preliminary trip to your location Find the best place from which to Use slow shutter speeds (up to Dont settle with just one angle or
during the day is worthwhile. It helps photograph your location. Look at the 30sec) and wide apertures (f2.8 or position constantly be on the
you plan your night-time shot and alignment of elements in the sky, such less) to capture detail in the stars. lookout for better compositions of the
identify any potential hazards. as the Milky Way. Use high ISO sensitivities if needed. foreground and the night sky.
shoot
Get the place
and time right
A great deal of a successful night photo shoot relies on
planning ahead. Research your location to see how far
away it is from a potential source of light pollution, such
as a town or city, road or even a floodlit event, then
check the weather forecast throughout the day of your
visit. Its important that if youre going for the clearest
night skies, there cannot be any clouds or haze present.
The best clear nights are in the winter, but bear in mind
that the best time to photograph the Milky Way is at the
height of summer, as it fades away from skies in around
October. Unless you want to shoot the moon itself, avoid
nights when it is present in the sky, as it casts a huge
Shoot panoramas glow in the sky and makes it difficult to observe most
This image comprises of six portrait-
orientation shots, stitched together in Adobe stars. And remember to pack a torch!
Photoshop. The result is a single image
covering over 180 degrees of view.
3 of the best Apps for
astrophotography
PhotoPills iOS (6.99/$9.99)
PhotoPills is a relatively new app on the market, but has just about everything
a landscape photographer could possibly need, particularly for
astrophotography. This includes a moon calendar and a star trails mode.
Lock focus
Use your cameras autofocus to lock onto the
moon. If you have it available on your camera,
use Live View to fine-tune the focus.
Use live
DSLRs th
at
view
video will are able to sho
Use a
telescope
h ot
mode, m ave a Live View
picture, eaning th
throu e live
sensor, gh the camera
is sh s
screen. own on the
Zo
check yo om in to
ur focus
Upgrade your
astrophotography kit
Telescope
If you want to capture
deep space and planets
in lots of detail, a
telescope is a
worthwhile investment.
They come in all shorts
of shapes and sizes to
suit any budget, but
look for one that can
support a camera.
T-mount
A T-mount adapter will
allow you to attach your
camera to your
telescope. Simply screw
it into where the lens
usually goes and then
x the eye-piece to it.
You'll need a T-mount
that ts your specic
camera model.
Filters
Capture detail There are all sorts of
Get your camera settings right and lters available for
you can quickly capture fantastic telescopes that can
help enhance your astro
detail of craters on the moon, or shots. Some are
the shadows cast by different designed to help cut out
moon phases. light pollution, while
coloured lters can
draw out hidden colours
in nebulas and galaxies.
Photo editing
with Picasa
Edit, store and share your photos with this free
and easy-to-use program from Google
WHAT YOULL NEED Import and sort Edit palette Access the Sharing
An image library Import images from All the editing tools editing tools Upload your photos to
Internet external sources or are here, divided up To access the editing social networks and
Picasa downloaded and folders by pressing between ve tabs. part of Picasa, blogs, email, print or
running www.picasa. this button. From the Access these by double-click on an export by pressing any
google.com
Mac or PC
drop-down menu, double-clicking on an image in the main one of these buttons,
choose how to sort image in the main library area, visible found under the main
WHAT YOULL LEARN through your images library window when rst opened display area
How to edit and improve
images
Creative effects
Sharing images online
Best bits from Picasa
EDITING
Photo editing with Picasa
Straighten up
01 With the edit palette visible, click
Straighten. A grid will appear on
top of your photo to use as a reference
guide. Move the slider at the base of your
photo until you are happy with the
positioning, then hit Apply.
Manual adjustment
Retouch tool Soft Focus
03 Move shapes around to nd the
best composition. To resize a
shape, hover over an edge or corner, drag 03 Select Retouch. Click on the blemish
you wish to cover, then click on an 04 Really make your portrait stand out by
applying a Soft Focus effect. Click on
then release. Create a bespoke shape by area to use as a sample patch. This sampled the third tab Fun and useful image
selecting Manual from the drop-down section will then be copied onto where you processing. Choose Soft Focus and use the
menu and drawing onto the photo. initially clicked, hiding any aws. sliders to create a subtle effect.
Saturation
Add a splash of colour Experimentation
03 Switch to the third tab 'Fun and
useful image processing'. To add 04 Within this tab, experiment with the
Sharpen and Saturation options. Next,
03 Control the overall vibrancy of your
image by pressing the Saturation
button in the 'Fun and useful image
colour into our bland sky, select Graduated try the HDR option within the next tab 'More processing' tab. Move the slider right to
Tint. Click on Pick Color, select, then move the fun and useful image processing'. This effect boost colours and left to tone them down.
sliders to create a bespoke effect. works best with simpler landscapes. Small movements is all they need.
Convert to monochrome
01 Convert your image to black and
white with one simple click.
Double-click on your chosen image in the
main library section, then in the edit
window choose the third tab 'Fun and
useful image processing'. Select B&W.
Enhancing your image Add some Film Grain texture Rockin' the 60s
02 Try out the Sepia or Tint features
for more basic colour effects, or if
you want to further enhance the image, 01 Click 'Fun and useful image processing'.
Begin by adding texture with the Film 02 To take the effect further, move onto
the fourth tab More fun and useful
go to the second tab 'Finely-tuned Grain feature, check the Lighten box and move image processing'. Select 1960s, choose if
lighting and color xes'. Move the the slider to suit. Hit Apply, then from the you want to add rounded corners, then move
Highlights and Shadows sliders. options select Warmify (Sepia will also work). the slider enhancing the colours and hit Apply.
Selective colouring
Light adjustments Vignette effect
03 If you want to add some creative
colouring, try out the Focal B&W
feature. Start with your fully coloured 03 Click on the second tab Finely-tuned
lighting and color xes and use the 04 For a classic retro nish, add on a
Vignette, found in the fth tab Even
image, go to the third tab 'Fun and Fill Light slider to add on a bleached-out effect. more fun and useful image processing'. Click
useful image processing' choose Focal Take the styling further if desired with the on the coloured square to select the colouring.
B&W and move the sliders to suit. other sliders. Move the sliders to alter the effect.
Text settings
01 With your image open and full size
(use the Zoom slider), click on the
Text button in the rst open tab. Click on
the text displayed on your image and
write. Alter font, size, colour and even
transparency in the left-hand menu.
Frame to nish
Posterize effects Create and save
03 The Posterize effect will simplify the
colours in your image into key blocks 04 Tweak the other two sliders to suit
your image, resulting in an individual,
03 With the border applied, you may
need to move the text again. To do
this, simply click on the type, wait for the
of colour. Move the top slider to add more or creative piece of art. When saving your image, grey border to appear and the text edit
less colour detail into your photo. Again, this make sure you go to File>Save a Copy or Save options, then move and tweak the
value will differ greatly. As, always leaving the original le untouched. settings to suit.
E FRE
SU E
Available
VERY IS
RE
newsagents and
DE
E supermarkets
DO LOA
WN
ON SALE NOW
> Posing tips > Perfect any scene > Creative shooting projects
LANDSCAPE TIPS SHOOTING ADVICE WILDLIFE PHOTOS PORTRAIT GUIDES CAMERA REVIEWS
facebook.com/DigitalPhotographerUK twitter.com/DPhotographer
EDITING
Achieve spotless skin
Achieve five
minute
project
spotless skin
WHAT YOULL NEED
Photo-editing program
A portrait image
Learn the tricks behind using the Spot
WE USED
Photoshop Elements 12
Healing Brush for retouching a portrait
YOU COULD USE
Photoshop CS2+
Previous Elements
BEFORE AFTER
Pick a tone
Sample a light skin tone colour from the face by
holding [I] (to activate the Eyedropper tool). Make
sure youre using a soft brush, with its Size set to
around 300px to cover larger areas of the face.
Create a wireless
photo slideshow
Share a photo slideshow with Apple TV from your iPad
One of the best things about the iPhone and iPad is photos you want to show on your TV using the touch
WHAT YOULL NEED that theyre great tools for snapping photos while on screen of your iPhone or iPad, then instantly beam them
iPad
Apple TV the go. And with options like iCloud Photo Stream, all onto your TV in the form of a slideshow. And because
your photos are available to view on all your devices, no the Photos app on the iPad is so powerful, you can even
WE USED
iPad Air matter which one you used to shoot it. But whats the customise the transitions between all of your photos so
point of taking great photos if you never get to show that they look exactly how you want them. Plus, you can
YOU COULD USE them off? With an iPad and an Apple TV, you have the add music from your iPads own Music app.
iPad 2/mini
perfect tools for sharing your photos with friends and Its the perfect way to show off your shots and make
WHAT YOULL LEARN family, on a big screen at beautiful full resolution. sure they look great, so lets get started and nd out
How to show off a
slideshow to friends
Because the Apple TV box connects to your home exactly how you can create a photo slideshow for your
Wi-Fi network, you can quickly and easily select the Apple TV.
Linked up
Your iPad will show
a black screen
when playing your
photos on the
Apple TV, but a tap
will end the
slideshow
3 OF THE BEST
Slideshow
transitions
Dissolve
This simple transition is the default option. It
offers classy, simple animations between your
shots to keep the focus on the photos.
Plenty of options
You can create a deck that has the
same image on the back of every
card or have different shots on the
front and back
Add a message
Add your favourite photos to the front of each card
and you can even personalise them with text
Cheap as
Add some fun to poker chips
Prices start from
as little as 9.97
will give Snapajack access to your albums. You will appear on the card. The preview box to the
can then locate the image you want. right will give you a good indication.
If youre on a
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4 OF THE BEST
Tips for
perfect
portraits
Meter correctly
Every time you half-press the shutter, your
Move the horizon How to decide where to position it
camera measures the light to set the exposure.
To make sure your subject appears bright, use
Spot metering mode and your camera will read
the light for where you focus.
Ann Overhulse
This close-up reveals the fantastic details in
this creatures body and wings.
Helen Holmes
Shooting at dusk or dawn brings landscapes
to life with a golden glow.
80 Photography
t gr for Beginners
Be nn
Twitpics
The best photos to sh
t nig
ht to
oot a erNick1
The clo
u
lovely c ds add a bit o
ountry f
scene drama to this
@upad
ch
have on @Ar ay
dont
tweeted to us A sunburst really complements
Get creative with light to produ
ce
You re the m
capt
u
o
amazing images @DomMcDowell
@pfbmag landscape shot @Hardinero
this
LET US RECOMMEND
Editing software
Perfect your shot by purchasing a program
Ive recently started experimenting with editing my photos Although it is best to try to get your photos right in-camera, almost
using free software and apps, just adjusting things like every shot can benet from a bit of post-processing somehow. Whether
exposure and sharpness. However, I would now like to try some its a boost of the colours or a brightening of the shadows, even simple
more advanced editing and maybe even start processing my tweaks can turn your images from average to awesome. There are lots of
own RAW les. Id love to be able try out a few more of the editing programs available for a wide range of prices, but if youre on a
fantastic editing projects in your magazine too. Are there any really tight budget then there are plenty of free programs that will satisfy
editing programs that you can recommend for an editing most of your editing needs. For example, turn to page 62 to discover just
novice like me? Preferably that arent too expensive. what you can do with Picasa.
Joel Green, via Facebook
Change your lens How to remove and attach lenses noise in a photo
PLAIN
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UPGRADE
Samsung NX3000
Samsung
NX3000
Meet the smart camera that doubles as a baby monitor
349/$530 | 20.3MP | Full HD | 3 LCD screen
Below The large 20.3-megapixel sensor delivers superb-quality stills with manual
and auto modes, plus full HD video with stereo sound
Aperture By lens
Flash modes External ash only
Weight 230g without battery
Dimensions 117.4 x 65.9 x 39mm
Batteries Lithium-ion
Storage microSD, microSDXC,
microSDHC, UHS-1 microSD
The most striking feature about this camera is its phone. The family fun doesnt end there either, as Screen 3 inches
cool, retro design. The compact chassis is coated in the fast shutter speed of 1/4000sec can keep up
a leather-like material with a sophisticated silver-top with fast-moving subjects like children and pets. HOW GOOD IS IT FOR
plate. But dont let the vintage elements fool you into The NX3000 comes with a versatile 16-50mm Landscapes +++++
thinking this isnt as up-to-date as its compact lens that has a power zoom button on the side. This Land and sky are accurately exposed,
with detail in shadows and highlights
system competitors. The ip-up three-inch LCD tends to make zooming a steadier process, so
Portraits +++++
display is perfect for taking self-portraits, bringing videos arent disturbed by jerky movements. The ip-up screen is great for seles,
and skin tones are attering
the camera to life as soon as you move it. Get into Speaking of video, it records at full HD and the
position and give the camera a wink and, two results like the still images are sharp with Sports +++++
It freezes the action with a fast shutter
seconds later, the shot will be captured without you excellent colour rendition. This is thanks to the large, speed and the option to shoot 5fps
having to lift a nger. DSLR-sized sensor that creates attractive blurred Low light +++++
Images are clean and sharp all the way
Samsung cameras have become known for their backgrounds in portraits, as well as detailed images up to ISO 1600
connectivity, and the NX3000 continues this trend. in low light. There isnt a ash on board, however, or
Macro +++++
Images can be shared wirelessly via Wi-Fi and NFC an eye-level viewnder. A touch screen interface A macro lens would be recommended
to focus a little closer
connectivity, and you can even turn your smartphone would have been welcome too, but at this relatively
into a remote viewnder. Frame the shot and adjust low price point, we cant grumble. The NX3000
THE PROS & CONS
settings like shutter speed and exposure all from would make a great addition to any family.
Wireless connectivity lets you
your phone, which enables you to be a part of family control the camera from your phone
group shots more easily. It seems that family is the This camera will let you know when your child stirs, Low-light performance is impressive,
producing detailed images
operative word, as this camera also comes with a capture a photo with a wink, and create stunning
A viewfinder and a flash would
built-in baby monitor. Just download the Home shots for the album all for a reasonable price. enhance usability
VERDICT +++++
Monitor+ app and if your little one wakes up and The flip screen could be improved
with touch screen capability
cries, the NX3000 will send a notication to your
Canon IXUS
265 HS
A sleek compact thats bursting
with creative modes
190/$200 | 16MP | Full HD | 3 LCD screen
Below Canon doesnt disappoint, capturing images that are sharp and true-to-life.
Creative Shot enables you to experiment with different lters
VERDICT +++++
when a face is detected), High-speed Burst, There are no manual modes or RAW
shooting capability on-board
Handheld Night Scene, Low Light and even digital
Fujilm you w
BUY
THIS IF
ant a camera
thatll survive your
FinePix XP70
Cheap and cheerful, the Fujilm FinePix XP70 threatens
extreme taste for
adventure
Aperture f3.9-4.9
Flash modes A, RE, SS, Fon, Foff
Weight 179g with battery
Dimensions 104.1 x 66.5 x 25.9mm
Fujilms latest four-way-proof compact is set to and evaluate images. Shooting modes are basic, Batteries Lithium-ion
cause a stir in the action-adventure camera market, reected by the minimal button layout and the Storage SD, SDHC, SDXC
not because it offers anything particularly new or simple two-fold menu system; making this camera Screen 2.7 inches
revolutionary, but because it goes on sale at almost chiey aimed at those who just want to point and
half the asking price of its competitors. Whats even shoot on the go. The AF isnt the fastest, but when it HOW GOOD IS IT FOR
more impressive is that it seems Fujilm hasnt had does lock on its usually reliable. The biggest Landscapes +++++
to make any compromises on quality or features. problem we had with the XP70s handling is the A 5x optical lens delivers a more-than-
adequate focal length of 28-140mm
Topping the bill is its proong features including frustrating shutter lag.
Portraits +++++
being waterproof to 10m (see boxout), hotly followed Most importantly perhaps, the XP70 produces a The camera sports a Portrait mode and
correctly reproduces skin tones
by wireless connectivity, a 16.4MP image sensor, level of image quality traditionally reserved for
GPS, HDR, 10fps at full resolution, and full HD movie models beyond this price point. Colours are generally Sports +++++
Not the quickest shutter speed, and
capture with a dedicated on-body shortcut, wind realistic and the details are sharp enough to please. there is a lag when the shot is red
lter setting, lters and in-camera editing tools. The only issue we have here is its slight tendency to Low light +++++
The camera promises success with
Cheerfully decorated thanks to the bright blue, underexpose. Details at low sensitivities are a several low-light and night modes
yellow or orange paint job, the XP70 certainly looks marvel, and as we move up the scale we only begin
Macro +++++
and acts the part, featuring a rubber-coated ridge to see softening and muting to a point beyond Although it can only get as close as
9cm, the results are usually sharp
on the front and raised textured thumb grip on the satisfaction around ISO 3200, which is true of most
reverse. As well as feeling tough, the camera uses compacts at this level.
THE PROS & CONS
a double-lock mechanism to protect the card and
The XP70s shockproof specs match
battery compartment. The lens is positioned on Waterproof, tough enough to withstand most the markets big-sellers
the top-left, which can take a little getting used to, action-adventure pursuits, capable of producing Lots of fun and useful features for
producing excellent video quality
and the LCD is slightly smaller and lower-res than superior image quality, feature-rich and all for a great
The monitor is much smaller and
most, but it does offer an anti-reective coating. price. Whats not to love? lower resolution than most of its rivals
VERDICT +++++
That said, regardless of how many dots it lacked, Most of the images produced during
our review were a shade underexposed
we found it crisp and clear enough to compose
Nikon 1 S2
What can Nikons budget CSC offer beginner shooters?
380/$450 (with 11-27.5mm lens) | 14.2MP | 60fps shooting | Creative modes
BUY
THIS IF
you want
some creative
control and fun
features
Below Lots of detail is present throughout the shots and the camera handles
noise well until higher ISOs of above 3200, making it great for working in low light
Aperture By lens
Flash modes Auto, Fon, Foff, RE, SS, RC
Weight 230g with battery
Dimensions 101.0 x 60.8 x 29.4mm
Batteries Lithium-ion
Storage microSD, microSDHC,
microSDXC
Not much bigger than a compact, even with the You can also record full HD movies of the action, Screen 3 inches
interchangeable kit lens attached, the Nikon 1 S2 is with lots of creative movie modes including slow
one of the smallest CSCs around, and its plastic motion video. Auto Image Capture will even snap a HOW GOOD IS IT FOR
body makes it very lightweight too. Despite its small photo while recording when it thinks the conditions Landscapes +++++
size, its kitted out with lots of fun and functional are best, or you can shoot a still image yourself Images have plenty of detail, but
colours are sometimes a little muted
features, including manual modes. However, without during lming. Alternatively, Motion Snapshot will
Portraits +++++
a physical mode dial, changing modes and settings record footage before and after you take a photo, No scene mode, but Silent mode is
perfect for shooting candid portraits
is quite a long and complicated process, so it is combining the image and video into a movie clip
more suited to those who mostly stick to auto. You with background music. Sports +++++
Fast shutter speeds, quick focusing and
can still be creative in auto though, as you have When it comes to still image quality, the 1 S2 speedy continuous shooting
quick and easy control over background blur, motion performs surprisingly well for such a small camera. Low light +++++
Low-light images have a good amount of
blur and brightness. There are also lter effects you Noise doesnt become a major problem in photos detail with minimal grain
can apply to shots, or you can use Creative Palette until ISO 3200 and images are still usable well
Macro +++++
mode, which adjusts the brightness and colours of beyond this value. However, if you want Wi-Fi Focusing distance depends on the lens,
but manual focus is available
your shot as you turn the control dial so you can re connectivity, a touch screen and a more versatile
the shutter when you see the effect you like. kit lens, youll need to pay a fair amount more for
THE PROS & CONS
The Nikon 1 S2 is particularly great for capturing the Nikon 1 J4 model.
Innovative modes make it easy to
action shots, with a super-fast maximum shutter capture clear shots of the action
speed for freezing motion and quick subject-tracking Although the handling isnt intuitive, the Nikon 1 S2 is Theres plenty of scope for beginners
to get creative with their images
autofocus to keep things sharp. You can also shoot compact, reasonably priced and has lots of clever
You need to manually extend the
up to 60 frames per second, or use Best Moment features to help you take great shots. lens before you can start shooting
VERDICT +++++
Capture mode to help you choose the best of The menu is a little long-winded,
making it difficult to adjust settings
several shots.
XSories
Me-Shot
BUY
Deluxe Capture the perfect
THISanItFh
elp sele, group shot
you w our
with y s and and more
ait
self-portgrle shots
high-an
Including yourself in your photos can be quite tricky, work. It can be used to control any camera app,
and usually involves holding your camera or phone whether you have an iOS, Android or Windows device. THE INFO
awkwardly at arms length. XSories has now set out The remotes buttons will have different functions
Price 48/$80
to solve this problem with their Me-Shot Deluxe kit. It depending on your phone, so it takes a little while to
includes a monopod that can hold a cameraphone work out what they all do, but for most models you
Maximum height
93cm
using the supplied Pholder attachment, or a compact can control volume, go to the home screen, and of Minimum height
camera, and both devices are held safely and course re the shutter. 23cm
securely. You can then easily extend the monopod by Although the remote is very small, the monopod is Weight 105g
pulling the grip downwards to help you move the not particularly compact, so it wont t in your pocket Maximum load 400g
camera further away to t everyone in the photo, or with your phone. It feels lightweight and well made Colours Orange, Pink, Black
shoot from high angles, which is useful for shooting but is still quite expensive, so youll have to be
above the crowds at a concert. To take your shot, you serious about seles to buy one. However, a slightly THE PROS & CONS
can use either self-timer mode or, if youre using a cheaper version is available without the remote.
Frame shots from awkward angles
cameraphone, the supplied remote control. The with ease and shoot from a distance
remote connects to your phone via Bluetooth, and If youre frustrated with framing shots from awkward Works with any camera or phone,
angles, then the Me-Shot Deluxe is a great solution, with control over lots of handy functions
although it is quite straightforward to set up, the
The complete kit wont fit in your
keyboard buttons are a little ddly. However, from but youll need to be willing to carry and pay for it. pocket, so youll need a bag
VERDICT +++++
then on it will connect automatically, and you dont Its quite pricey, but is also a
versatile and well-made product
even need to download a specic app to get it to
Flash accessories
Control the light from your ash with these clever devices
1 Lastolite MicroApollo MKII 45 Price 30/approx $49 2 Gary Fong Puffer PLUS
The MicroApollo MKII 45 from the effect of your ash. It is use, it folds down at so that Price Approx 17/$27
Lastolite (www.lastolite.co.uk) very easy to attach, as you you can slip it into your Gary Fongs (www.garyfong.
is a collapsible softbox that simply have to stretch the camera bag, but it is still not com) Puffer PLUS is designed
you can attach to any external elasticated collar over the as compact as many other to soften the light from your
ashgun. It has a front panel head of your ashgun, but it ash diffusers. It also doesnt cameras pop-up ash, helping
made of a translucent plastic certainly doesnt look very feel particularly well made, but to create a more attering
material, which is designed to subtle if youre using it while at least the imsy material is effect for portraits and more.
diffuse the light and soften out and about. When not in very lightweight. It attaches via the hotshoe, so
BEST FOR: DIFFUSING LIGHT FROM YOUR FLASHGUN you will need a camera that
has one of these, and it is very
easy to slot into place. The
design is simple but it feels
01 reasonably sturdy, and once
dismantled it becomes very
portable and compact. It does
look a little odd when attached
to your camera, but it works
effectively and is reasonably
priced for a ash diffuser. You
can also buy a warming shield
to replace the standard white
shield, which will gently warm
the light from your ash.
BEST FOR: DIFFUSING
LIGHT FROM YOUR
POP-UP FLASH
3 Phottix Ares Flash Trigger Set Price 50/$55 4 Rogue FlashBender Bounce Card Price 25/$25
If you have a ashgun but your ash from up to 200m Bouncing the light from your plastic material to diffuse the
would like to position it away, even if it is not within ash is a great way to soften light before it hits your
off-camera, then Phottixs the line of sight. Its very easy it and prevent a harsh, subject. Alternatively, you can
(www.phottix.co.uk) Ares to use, with clearly labelled unattering result. The Rogue attach a piece of black fabric
Flash Trigger Set lets you do buttons, and comes with a FlashBender Bounce Card over the top to shield the light
just that. All you have to do is handy carrying case to pack (www.expoimaging.com) from your subject instead.
attach the transmitter to the away in your bag. At such a attaches to any ashgun via Most ashguns have an
hotshoe on your camera and reasonable price, its very an adjustable Velcro strap adjustable head that you can
the receiver to your ashgun, useful for if you want to light and features a exible rod to angle to bounce the light off
then coordinate the channels your subject from behind or allow you to bend it into of a wall or ceiling, but this
on both. The transmitter will one side for creative studio- position. The light will then gadget comes in handy when
then emit a radio signal to re style setups. bounce off of the white this is not possible.
BEST FOR: USING YOUR FLASHGUN OFF-CAMERA BEST FOR: BOUNCING LIGHT FROM YOUR FLASHGUN
02 04
03
Canvas printing
services
Turn your photos into wall art you can display at home
1 WhiteWall Price From 25/$38 2 PhotoBox Price From 7/approx $11
WhiteWall (uk.whitewall.com) your canvas is very simple, With 16 shapes and sizes, your photo theres a decent
only has two canvas options plus theres an extensive plus three different range of editing options
to choose from: standard array of photo-editing options thicknesses to choose from, available for perfecting your
and the more expensive available, including lter PhotoBox (www.photobox. shot. You can also preview
textile option that involves effects and retouching tools. co.uk) gives you a good your canvas in 3D and even
your print being vaporised Sadly there is no 3D preview selection of classic canvas see what it will look like on a
onto fabric. Each is available of your canvas before you designs. You can even create wall to help you get the size
in a wide range of sizes, buy it though. The standard collage or framed canvases right. The product itself is of
including square and canvas that we ordered has too. We went for the Classic average quality, with an
panorama options, and three a lovely soft and smooth Canvas Lite with a 1.8cm obvious textured nish and
different thicknesses. You nish and the print was depth, but youll have to pay untidy corners, but the price
can even create a 3D-effect accurate, but the corners extra if you want it thicker. is very cheap and cheerful.
canvas with a slanting frame,
making it look like your photo
and back of the canvas
looked quite messy.
Its available with or without a
wrap, and when positioning +++++
is oating in front of the wall.
The process for designing +++++
01
02 03
Advertising
4 One Vision Price From 27/approx $44 Digital or printed media packs are available on request.
Head of Sales Hang Deretz
One Vision (www.onevisionimaging.com) designing process is nice and simple. 01202 586442
Advertising Manager Alex Carnegie
specialise in very high-quality photo Theres not much in the way of editing 01202 586430
alex.carnegie@imagine-publishing.co.uk
printing, which is why their prices are much options, as One Vision assumes you will
International
higher. They have a big canvas range, from have done that already, but you can Photography for Beginners is available for licensing.
Contact the International department to discuss
the basic Inkjet Canvas, to what they call preview your canvas on a choice of wall partnership opportunities.
Head of International Licensing Cathy Blackman
the Rolls Royce of canvases, the 2 Canvas colours to check that it will suit the dcor. +44 (0)1202 586401
licensing@imagine-publishing.co.uk
Wrap. We went for the cheaper Inkjet Even the cheap canvas is excellent quality,
Circulation
option, which is 3mm thick and comes in with a vibrant glossy nish and extremely Head of Circulation Darren Pearce
01202 586200
an impressive number of shapes and sizes. neat wrap.
Production
You need to create an account before you
can get started, but the step-by-step +++++ Production Director Jane Hawkins
01202 586200
Founders
Group Managing Director Damian Butt
Group Finance & Commercial Director Steven Boyd
Panning
Learn how to take impressive ESSENTIAL PANNING KNOW-HOW
action-packed shots of Aperture f16
moving vehicles Shutter speed 1/50sec
Panning is a fantastic photo for you. If your camera offers ISO 200
technique that enables you to add tracking AF, use it! But manual
a sense of motion to shots of focusing is often more accurate.
Focus mode Manual
fast-moving subjects, such as cars, To do this, youll need to pre-focus Drive mode Single
cyclists and pets. The technique your lens on an area you know your
itself relies on the use of a slow subject will pass when you release Lens 18-55mm
shutter speed and smooth the shutter.
shooting motion. Then once your subject comes Helpful kit Monopod
To capture an impressive panning in view, stand with your feet
shot for yourself, youll need to shoulder-width apart and hold your To get the right exposure If youre
select Shutter Priority mode (S/Tv) camera up to your eye with your shooting outside during the day, ensure your ISO
on your camera. Keep your ISO elbows tucked in. Once you release
setting low and input a shutter the shutter, pan with the cars setting is kept low to avoid overexposed shots due
speed of around 1/50sec the movements, using just your hips to slower shutter speeds
camera will determine the aperture for a smooth and steady result.
Top tip Shoot parallel to your subject for the
best results, as it will be easier for you to focus
manually and pan steadily once they come into view
X-Pro1
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