Whether you're just learning photography basics or you need some advice on an advanced photo technique, our How-To section offers tips for shutterbugs at every level.
Three easy steps to save or enhance your portraits
Do you have a portrait of a subject who looks lovely, but is ruined by a busy and unappealing background? Consider performing some simple tricks in the computer to help it out. Replacing the background can introduce a new feel or mood and save a photograph that might otherwise be headed straight for the trash bin.
Enrich and expand your photography knowledge through workshops
So you want to learn more about photography or perhaps hone the skills you've already acquired. This is great news! It demonstrates your passion for the craft and a yearning for knowledge and creativity. With a variety of photography workshop organizations around the country, there are many classes available, all of which are geared to boost your technical expertise and open your creative eye.
10 tips to help you get going quickly in using Photoshop and Photoshop Elements
If asked to list the most intimidating parts of digital photography, a large number of photographers would include Adobe Photoshop. Without question, it's the premiere image-processing software on the market, but its high price matches its learning curve. The good news about Photoshop is that it has a huge number of controls; the bad news about Photoshop is that it has a huge number of controls.
Get your monitor to accurately portray the colors of your digital photos
I was thrilled when I bought my first inkjet printer and couldn't wait to make my first color print. After spending about half an hour perfecting the portrait photograph in Photoshop, I sent the image to the printer and was immediately disappointed. If the person had been a visiting extraterrestrial or suffering from jaundice, the yellowish skin tone might have been acceptable. Neither was the case. I was just another photographer experiencing the frustration of having an inkjet print that didn't match what was on the monitor.
Easy ways to achieve beautiful digital black-and-white prints
Classic—the personification of black-and-white images. Weaving that classic look of black-and-white printing into the digital realm is easier than ever today. Software has a range of effects that enables greater control over your images in a way that traditional black-and-white film printing never could. In addition, plug-ins, specialized inks and papers are available that, when combined, produce beautiful high-quality prints with smooth tonal transitions, depth and detail.
10 tips to help you dramatically improve your color inkjet output
Getting a good print today has become the norm with the latest digital cameras and printers. While you still may have some challenges, printer manufacturers, in particular, have worked hard to give users the ability to create outstanding prints. Now it's time to move beyond simply outputting a good print. I want to help you find ways to make your prints better express what you saw when you took the picture and how you felt about the subject.
Understanding and using layers increases your tools and capabilities for refined image processing
Imagine software that allows you to substantially adjust part of your photo, yet also lets you go back to that adjustment when you change your mind. Imagine what it would be like to be able to make changes to your image that were never permanent so you could readjust as needed without quality loss.
When I think about my days in the darkroom, I realized I achieved consistently good results when I methodically followed specific steps. With traditional printing, even a small variation in time, temperature or chemistry could make a significant difference in the look of a print.
Stop wondering. While strobes throw out a short burst of light, continuous lights provide a constant output that allows you to see where your light is going. You don't have to constantly check your image via LCD screen or computer monitor to make sure the light is hitting your subject and you can make adjustments before capture.
Create beautiful photographs in your own community
One of my own favorite photographs happened by chance. My wife and I were leaving a movie theater, exiting into a street that had been nearly empty only a few hours before. Now, there were several thousands cheering and dancing around in celebration. It took me a few minutes to remember that the World Cup soccer match was being held at the Rose Bowl. From the lyrical chanting of "Brasil! Brasil!" I quickly knew who had won.
How-To
