Thursday, August 25, 2011

Nature Photography

I learned that the best camera for an amateur photographer is a SLR 6-megapixel digital camera. Digital cameras also produce results equal to or better than a traditional film camera in image resolution, highlight and shadow detail, and grain/noise. You can also rejuvenate old film pictures by scanning them onto your pc and then editing them with photoshop. You can fix transparencies that have faded over the years, or fix damaged through handling, and you can restore color and scratch marks. Canon is the DSLR brand of choice for professionals. The best brand to buy are Nikon, or Canon suggested by the author Tim Fitzharris. Something else you want to invest in is a good tripod. It should have tubular legs for sturdiness and tall enough to bring the camera to eye level. The levers should have clips that are easy to adjust quickly.  Ball heads are the best for attaching the camera to the tripod. It should also be compact and light enough to carry. If you are shooting wildlife you should have a super-telephoto lens 400mm and longer range. 300mm works best for small animals and 500mm for larger animals. If your shooting Landscape shots, a zoom lens is the best. They allow you to precisely magnify the scene for the best composition. If you are shooting smaller critters you need a macro lens. They usually allow you to take photos of small subjects and fill the frame. When you are out hiking the best way to carry you camera and equipment is a vest. It evens out the weight and is easily accessible. You should also dress appropriately to the weather. Zippers are the best way to maintain the correct body heat. They are easily adjusted and work great. Duct tape works as a great replacement for filter holder. If it is raining out you can put a normal grocery bag over the camera and wrap a bungee cord around it to keep it dry. It's also important to keep a cellphone or walkie-talkies with you in case of emergencies.