Shooting

Modern digital cameras do an impressive job in getting an acceptable exposure for most images. There's a difference between an acceptable exposure and an exceptional exposure, however. The best exposures make maximum use of the capabilities of the camera sensor and internal camera processing while causing only a few problems when printing or working on images in the computer.

Who needs all these modes?
You might ask yourself this question when you pick up a digital camera loaded with custom exposure settings.

The two primary shooting formats for digital cameras are JPEG and RAW. JPEG is a file compression format that offers superb image quality when used correctly, while RAW is an excellent format for photographers who either need it or like working with it, but it isn't for everyone.

We may share a passion for photography, but we don't all shoot the same subjects or like to work in the same way. Camera manufacturers understand this, and as most digital cameras now have ample resolution for excellent output, manufacturers are distinguishing their models by designing them for a variety of uses.

Before most of us have visited a particular location, whether exotic, foreign or domestic, usually we've seen it first in photographs. The images themselves sometimes inspired us to go, and in many cases, they gave us ideas about what to see and where to explore. Invariably, photography is linked to travel.

True, you can learn things about digital cameras and photography everywhere-your local newspaper, newsmagazines, prestigious financial papers and much more. Digital photography has become so popular that everyone is getting into the act. Yet the quality and accuracy of that information isn't always what it could be. I've I've read articles about equipment or technology PCPhoto has covered and scratch my head. Are they talking about the same things we are?

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.

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.

Having started my career assisting two professional photojournalists, I quickly realized that powerful images could be created by using a wide-angle lens. Photojournalists love using this type of lens because of its ability to capture a subject closely while showing the expanse of his or her environment.

Night photography is one of those aspects of photography that always gets attention. People love to see night scenes—that mysterious mix of ambient light and city lights. The challenge is to compose them well.