Olympus E-PL1 Digital Camera Review

Created with the consumer photographer in mind, the Olympus E-PL1 digital camera is a much easier model compared to the

Micro Four Thirds digital camera, however, it still features most of what enthusiast photographers would desire when it comes to premium quality from a compact digital camera, built with a more up-to-date body. In several ways, the Olympus E-P1 digital camera may be more desirable when it comes to a high-quality "everywhere" digital camera utilizing interchangeable lenses as a result of its somewhat lighter weight, effective grip and an easier to use interface.

Design and Build
Although it is lacking in solid metal construction such as the E-P1 and E-P2, the E-PL1 digital camera is without a doubt, a well built picture taker. Much like the classic half-frame PENs, the E-PL1 digital camera is different from typical, entry-level DSLRs - the style, the size of the sensor and also the technologies are quite different.

The Olympus E-PL1 digital camera is a cross-breed of a digital SLR and a point-and-shoot camera, giving you flexibility and the best of both worlds. The E-PL1, similar to a digital SLR, features interchangeable lenses, a larger sensor compared to a point-and-shoot and also the ability to control settings like aperture, shutter speed and others.

Exposure
The Olympus E-PL1 digital camera utilizes Digital ESP metering which is Olympus’ sophisticated multi-metering system. It functions by dividing the photo into 324 parts, analysing the details from each part and presenting the most impressive exposure from the results. Though it's not perfect every time, it still works very well. Just like the other Pen digital cameras in the range, the E-PL1 digital camera boasts 5 metering options: Digital ESP, centre-weighted, spot, Spot Hilight and Spot Shadow.

Built-In Image Stabilizer
The Olympus E-PL1 digital camera offers three (3) image stabilization options:
1) Auto IS is the standard mode where each vertical and horizontal camera shake will be stabilized.

2) Vertical IS is utilized for horizontal panning. It solely stabilizes vertical, up or down, camera shake while not interfering with the sideways movement required to generate a panoramic photo.

3) (Horizontal IS) is utilized for horizontal panning should the camera be held vertically - to shoot a taller horizontal panorama. This mode in addition stabilizes up or down camera shake, as well.

Video Mode
The E-PL1 digital camera can record hi-res HD 720p 1280x720 video clips in the 16:9 aspect ratio and standard VGA 640x480 video clips in the 4:3 aspect ratio, each utilizing the AVI Motion JPEG format at 30fps. The Movie mode is reached either by choosing the Movie option on the shooting mode dial after which you'd press the shutter button to start recording, or, far more quickly with a one-time press of the innovative one-touch Motion Picture button located on the back of the camera.

The overall duration of recording a single video clip is limited to 7 minutes for 1280x720 movies and 14

minutes for 640x480 movies, evidently because of a natural limit of 2GB for AVI files. Only Mono sound is recorded throughout video capture through the little, internal microphone located on the back of the camera, however, you can easily plug-in an external stereo microphone. The built-in HDMI port lets you hook up the E-PL1 to an HDTV, yet you'll have to buy the optional HDMI mini-cable.

Olympus E-PL1 Digital Camera Features:

HD Movie With Manual Control, Art Filter Movie and New Direct Movie Button
Shoot movies at 30 frames per second, with high-quality sound, in 720p with available manual control over aperture and shutter speed. This new level of control allows you to express your vision exactly how you want in your HD videos. A Direct HD Movie Button switches you from still to movie mode with the press of a button. You can also capture HD video (720p) using one of the six Art Filters for more creative shooting options.

New Easy-To Use-Live Guide Control
Seeing the results before you shoot can change the way you take a picture. Want more vivid or muted color in your shot? Want warmer or cooler hues? Want a brighter or darker subject, or a sharper or softer background? Or maybe you want to capture the fast-moving action of your subject with a little artistic blur, or perhaps freeze the action? Simply set the camera to iAuto, press OK to engage Live Guide, then press the up and down arrows on the back of the E-PL1 to easily slide through numerous photographic effects. Make adjustments and watch the LCD as the effects are made live -- before the image is captured! Live Guide also features a Tips section on how to compose a shot or shoot kids, pets, flowers and more.

Built-In Flash
Use the pop-up flash to easily illuminate low-light subjects. The camera is also compatible with a range of optional external flashes including the Olympus FL-14, -- and the E-PL1 has wireless flash control using the FL-36R and FL-50R -- for dynamic lighting control.

In-Camera Art Filters
With six in-camera Art Filters (Pop Art, Soft Focus, Grainy Film, Pin Hole, Diorama and our new Gentle Sepia filter) you can explore your artistic side while taking both still shots and HD video. The Art Filters can be applied as you shoot, no additional software required.

12.3 Megapixel
The E-PL1’s powerful 12.3 megapixel Live-MOS sensor packs a powerful high-quality imaging punch for such a compact camera, allowing you to capture more detail than ever before. The Live MOS image sensor delivers excellent dynamic range, accurate color fidelity and fine image details in both highlight and shadow areas.

In-Body Image Stabilization
Say goodbye to blurry images. In both still and movie modes - the E-PL1 Image Stabilization excels. The E-PL1’s three-mode In-body Image Stabilization system compensates for up to three shutter speed steps in the still shooting modes with any of its interchangeable lenses: Mode 1 for general shooting, Mode 2 for creative high-speed horizontal capture, and Mode 3 for high-speed vertical capture. The camera's Mechanical Image Stabilization automatically compensates for camera shake in low-light situations or when using a telephoto lens. In the Movie Modes the advanced Electronic Image Stabilization tracts the images both vertically and horizontally to achieve clear sharp movies, matching the performance of the in body IS.

Compact Size, Interchangeable Lenses
We’ve packed a big sensor into a small camera. The stylish design of the Olympus PEN E-PL1 is much more compact than a traditional DSLR, but it still provides the option of interchangeable lenses -- giving you the freedom to take great pictures wherever you go. Whether it’s around the block or around the world.

I-Camera Slideshow With Sound
Slideshows have never been easier or more fun to create. The E-PL1’s enhanced playback functions allow you to employ effective fade-in/fade-out techniques, control the movie/still mix and speed, add captivating musical soundtracks, and much more.

Multiple Exposure
Multiple Exposure makes heightened creativity an easily-obtained objective. Two frames can be combined to create an image uniquely yours. Images can be combined in playback mode or directly on the LCD

iAuto With iEnhance
iAuto automatically identifies the scene you're shooting – portrait, landscape, night portrait, macro, or sport – and adjusts the settings to optimize results. iEnhance can be used in any mode, and automatically engages when using iAuto to enrich color in any subject, just as the human eye sees it.

Truepic V Image Processor
In addition to more detail, the image sensor, combined with the next-generation TruePic V Image Processor, delivers excellent dynamic range, accurate color fidelity and reduced noise, all the way up to 3200 ISO.

19 Automatic Scene-Select Modes
The E-PL1 is equipped with 19 scene-select modes for effortless picture taking. Standard scene modes like Night-Scene, Portrait and Landscape are easy-to-use solutions for everyday shooting.

Dust Reduction System
A Dust Reduction System assures spot-free images. Every time you turn on the camera, the patented Supersonic Wave Filter silently vibrates, flinging and collecting dust so that it cannot interfere with the picture imaging at any time.

AF Live View With AF Tracking
AF Live View works as seamlessly as a point-and-shoot to display subjects, in focus, on the LCD the instant the shutter is pressed half way. AF Tracking locks your subject into focus right on the LCD, and constantly adjusts focus and brightness whether you or your subject is moving. With this mode, a simple push of the AF button and shutter release enables you to keep fast-moving and unpredictable subjects in focus

In-Camera Editing
Make changes to your image after the shot, right in the camera. Adjust for red eye, crop an image, change the aspect ratio or saturation, change your image to black and white -- and much more! In-Camera jpeg edit functions allow you to quickly tweak your images right in the camera so you can easily upload them to your favorite web site and share them with friends and family. (perfect!)

Face Detection
A Face Detection function reduces the chance of blurry faces when shooting groups of people—up to eight subjects at once—even if they're moving while you're pressing the shutter button.

Shadow Adjustment Technology
Shadow Adjustment Technology corrects for extreme light variations with high-tech efficiency. It can also be used in post-editing.

ePortrait
The ePortrait Scene-Select mode is useful for smoothing out the facial features of your subjects, which is a tremendous plus for High Definition video playback, or apply ePortrait post shot via .jpeg edit.

Multiple Aspect Ratio Shooting
The E-PL1 lets you select one of four Aspect Ratios (4:3, 3.2, 16.9 and 6.6) that help frame your images to whatever proportions you'd like. Aspect ratios are available for still photo and HD movie capture, for everything from conventional enlargements to viewing on widescreen monitors.

Accessory Port
The E-PL1 includes a port for new accessories including the SEMA-1 Microphone adapter set and the VF-2 live-finder, a detachable electronic viewfinder. The viewfinder easily slides onto the camera's accessory port and hot shoe to provide 1.15x magnification for a 100% field of view. The VF-2 rotates up 90 degrees which is useful when shooting subjects from challenging angles. The external accessory port also allows for connection with the new EMA-1 external microphone adapter for enhanced audio capture.

Micro Four Thirds Mount
The Micro Four Thirds Mount on the E-PL1 provides many key benefits, including the effectiveness of a digitally designed image sensor, an ultra-compact design, and expandability and compatibility with all Micro Four Thirds Lenses and Four Thirds System Lens via the MMF-2 Adapter.

SDHC Media Cards
The E-PL1 is capable of recording video to SDHC media cards to accommodate large files. (SDHC Class 6 cards are recommended.) Videos, stills and high-fidelity audio can also be output via HDMI cable-direct to any HD television.

Underwater Housing
The new camera’s compact design makes it the perfect companion for all of your dive trips. The PT-EP01 underwater housing has been specially customized for the Olympus E-PL1 and is waterproof to a depth of 40 meters (approximately 130 feet). With its durable, high-quality polycarbonate construction, this Olympus housing protects the camera from water while also cushioning it from knocks and bumps on land.

Olympus PEN E-P1 Digital Camera Review

The Olympus E-P1 digital camera has a 12.3MP sensor that is capable of capturing still and HD video.

A number of the features in the E-P1 are also offered in Olympus's DSLRs. This consists of face detection, Art Filters, the SuperSonic Wave Filter for dust reduction, sensor-shift image stabilization, multiple exposures and magnified focus assist. However, the Olympus PEN E-P1 digital camera presents plenty of features new to the Olympus, as well, such as HD video, digital leveling, 324-area matrix metering, onboard music, and in-camera music, still and video integration.

A pair of cutting edge lenses are offered in individual kits with the Olympus E-P1 digital camera: the 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 as well as the 17mm f/2.8, and not to forget, a small optical viewfinder paired with the 17mm lens. A small flash can also be purchased for the Olympus E-P1.

Moderately covered with a stainless steel body, the Olympus E-P1 digital camera is available in black and silver or white and tan. It offers an "old-school" look with a lot of up-to-date technology resting inside of it.

Performance
The E-P1 digital camera is loaded with 19 automatic scene modes for trouble-free photo capturing. Typical scene modes such as Night-Scene, Portrait and Landscape are simple-to-use options for daily picture taking. Capturing gorgeous portraits is a breeze with the cutting edge ePortrait Mode. It allows you to smooth your subject's face - in-camera and prior to capture. In addition, edits can be achieved post-capture utilizing the ePortrait Fix mode.

Shooting scenes having both ample-light and shadows are frequently difficult due to the significant contrast among dark and bright areas. The E-P1 digital camera addresses this concern with Shadow Adjustment Technology which adjusts for intense light variations yet still preserves observable detail throughout the shadow and lighted areas of the scene. Presently users are able to see and examine the gradation on the Live View LCD viewing screen and capture photos displaying the shadow detail they observed. This feature is as well available in the Edit menu following the shot of the photo.

The Olympus E-P1's Face Detection decreases the potential for blurred or fuzzy subjects in photos by identifying up to eight people's faces plus the background, tracking the faces inside of the photo area, even when individuals are moving, and automatically focusing and optimizing exposure for sharp, spectacular portrait photos. This is beyond perfect for family and group pictures of friends and co-workers.

Should you not desire to adjust camera settings whenever you're taking photos of different things, then the E-P1's Intelligent Auto Mode is ideal for you. It automatically determines what you're taking photos of (Portrait, Landscape, Night + Portrait, Macro, Sports) and modifies settings to obtain the ideal result dependant upon the conditions. Beginner users will love this fast and hassle-free feature, which will do the thinking for them and deliver outstanding photos just like a professional.

The Brand New Super Control Panel with Live Control technology,

combined with the camera's user-friendly button layout, allows you to observe both the image and the controls via the 3" HyperCrystal LCD viewing screen, making the Olympus E-P1 digital camera easy to operate. The E-P1 records to SDHC memory cards to support sizeable files including HD videos.

Main Features:

Live View Autofocus - With the seamless precision and simplicity of a point-and-shoot, the E-P1's Live View Autofocus system displays the images to be shot in complete focus on the camera's bright LCD the moment the shutter button is pressed half way down.

Multiple Exposure - Multiple Exposure makes heightened creativity an easily-obtained objective. Two frames can be combined, and portions of one can be combined with those of another in any of the shooting modes. Images can be combined in playback mode or directly on the LCD through the use of the new TruePic V Image Processor.

Micro Four Thirds Mount - The Micro Four Thirds Mount on the E-P1 provides many key benefits, including the effectiveness of a digitally designed image sensor, an ultra-compact design, and expandability and compatibility with all Micro Four Thirds Lenses and Four Thirds System Lens via the MMF-1 Adapter.

Art Filters - A series of six built-in Art Filters for replicating countless striking and dramatic effects can be easily activated for both still and video imaging. The innovative Art Filters include Pop Art, Soft Focus, Pale & Light Color, Light Tone, Grainy Film and Pin Hole.

12.3 megapixel - The E-P1's powerful 12.3 megapixel Live-MOS sensor packs a powerful high-quality imaging punch for such a compact camera, allowing you to capture more detail than ever before.

TruePic V Image Processor - In addition to more detail, the image sensor, combined with the next-generation TruePic V Image Processor, delivers excellent dynamic range, accurate color fidelity and reduced noise, all the way up to 6400 ISO.

In-body Image Stabilization - The camera's In-body Image Stabilization system compensates for up to 4 shutter speed steps with any of the system's interchangeable lenses.

Mechanical Image Stabilization - Mechanical Image Stabilization automatically compensates for camera shake in low-light situations or when using a telephoto lens.

Electronic Image Stabilization - Electronic Image Stabilization compensates for camera shake while shooting in the movie mode.

MF Assist - For accurate manual focusing, MF Assist can be enabled during S-AF + MF operation. With it you can zoom in on the central part of the image by up to five times by turning the focus ring.

Perfect Shot Preview - With Perfect Shot Preview, you can preview and select various photographic effects before you take the shot.

Digital Leveler - The camera's Digital Leveler function is a highly functional and practical feature for such specialized requirements as architectural photography and other similar needs.

Dust Reduction System - A Dust Reduction System assures spot-free images. Every time you turn on the camera, the patented Supersonic Wave Filter silently vibrates, flinging and collecting dust so that it cannot interfere with the picture imaging at any time.

19 automatic scene modes - There are 19 automatic scene modes available, including Night-Scenes, Portraits and Landscapes. Edits can be made in the camera after the pictures are shot using the handy ePortrait Mode.

ePortrait - The ePortrait mode is also useful for smoothing out the facial features of your subjects, which is a tremendous plus for High Definition playback.

Face Detection - A Face Detection function reduces the chance of blurry faces when shooting groups of people—up to eight subjects at once—even if they're moving while you're pressing the shutter button.

Shadow Adjustment Technology - Shadow Adjustment Technology corrects for extreme light variations with high-tech efficiency. It can also be used in post-editing.

Aspect Ratios - The E-P1 lets you select one of four Aspect Ratios (4:3, 3.2, 16.9 and 6.6) that help frame your images to whatever proportions you'd like, for everything from conventional enlargements to viewing on widescreen monitors.

iAuto - iAuto identifies your shooting intent (such as macro or action photography) and instantly adjusts the camera settings to achieve the best results.

Slideshows - Slideshows have never been easier or more fun to create. The E-P1's enhanced playback functions allow you to employ effective fade-in/fade-out techniques, add captivating musical soundtracks, and much more.

ultra-compact body - The E-P1 is the definition of state-of-the-art optical engineering in an ultra-compact body. It weighs just 11.8 ounces and measures just 4.75" (W) x 2.75" (H) x 1.43 (D), giving it the facility to slip into pockets or purses and to take with you anywhere.

M. ZUIKO lenses - The accompanying Olympus M. ZUIKO lenses are small, lightweight, powerful and precision engineered.

Four Thirds System Lens Adapter - Other Four Thirds Format lenses can also be used on the E-P1 with an available MMF-1 Four Thirds System Lens Adapter, including extreme wide-angle fisheye and super-telephoto lenses. This further increases your range of creative options.

Sound recording - The sound recording function of the E-P1 helps you capture all the nuances of any sounds being recorded. The system is capable of recording and playing back WAV files, and of adding the most professional-sounding narration to digital slide shows.

Background music - There are also five separate background music files to choose from that you can add to your still images or video productions.

SDHC media cards - The E-P1 is capable of recording video to SDHC media cards to accommodate large files. (SDHC Class 6 cards are recommended.) Videos, stills and high-fidelity audio can also be output via HDMI cable-direct to any HD television.

Full manual control - Full manual control for all programs and functions, including Aperture and Shutter Speed Priority, is at your fingertips whenever it is needed or preferred. Full automatic control is also a button-press away.

Live Control - Live Control, an advanced camera management system, allows you to see the image being shot and the camera's controls all at once, on the bright, colorful, high definition 3-inch HyperCrystal LCD. HyperCrystal LCDs offer many times the contrast of conventional LCD monitors, and also provide a wide viewing angle of 176°.

Specifications:

Resolution: 12Mp

Sensor size: 17.3x13.0mm

Sensor type: Hi-Speed LiveMOS Four Thirds

Image size: 4032x3024

Aspect ratio: 4:3

Focus system: Contrast detection AF system

Focus points: 11

Crop factor: 2x

Lens mount: Micro Four Thirds

File type: 12bit RAW, JPEG

Sensitivity: ISO100-6400

Storage: SD, SDHC

Focus types: Area, single, face detection

Metering system: TTL open aperture

Metering types: Digital ESP, centre-weighted, spot

Exposure compensation: +/- 3EV in 1, ½, 1/3 step increments

Shutter speed: 60sec-1/4000sec

Frames per second: Approx. 3fps

Flash: External only

Flash sync speed: 1/30sec-1/180sec

Image stabilisation: Sensor shift type, one or two dimensional movement to 4EV steps

Integrated cleaning: SSWF

Live view: Yes, Contrast detection system, 100% field of view

Viewfinder: Optional accessory

Monitor: 3in Hypercrystal LCD, 230,000dots (73,000px)

Interface: USB 2.0, HDMI

Power: Li-Ion battery

Size: 120.5x70.0x35.0mm

Weight: 335g (body only excl. battery and card)

Portrait Photography Tips

Individuals have been a popular subject for many prize-winning photos from time to time. Still, portrait photography isn't only about capturing a face. It is also about making a person or many people come alive within the picture by showing them at their best.

A well done portrait image doesn't follow convention, and displays the person in a state of mind that makes the image exceptional.

However, portraits of one person or of whole families are also taken by photographers, and these are generally preserved in family albums.

An appropriate up-close shot bringing the person's face into focus distinguishes a truly professional portrait photograph from one that has been casually clicked. This can be done by tuning camera settings to blur the subject's background so that his or her face gets the maximum focus. A camera with a wider aperture can strike this perfect balance between the background and the person's face. Whereas, when both the subject and the background are equally significant, like an image taken with the subject in a scenic landscape, then a standard aperture setting is more appropriate.

Lack of perfect light for a good image is a usual issue faced by the photographers. However, some essential photography guidelines if sincerely followed can produce that perfect portrait photograph. If the person is made to sit near a window in a posture in which the sun's rays fall only to some extent on the face, then the photograph generally ends up looking wonderful.

To ensure that the other side doesn't appear dark, a reflective medium such as a white sheet can be used. However, portrait pictures taken in studios under regulated lighting usually come out better than those taken in natural light.

One more thing that you must keep in mind is that the more at ease a subject is during the shoot, higher the chances are of getting a perfect portrait photograph. The human element in photography is so important that all technical details will fail to make it a good portrait if the subject is stiff and feeling awkward in front the camera.

Photography Professions

It's not correct to state that there's no gains in photography. For individuals who are actually able, prominence and riches is effortlessly attained.

In reality, there are a lot of photographers who have accomplished the top of their discipline. There are really a lot of occupations that a photographer can engage in. Photos and visuals are significant in a lot of media and talented "lens" men are very much popular in the market particularly now with the era of multimedia.

Photographer for Magazines and Newspapers
Even though it's more rewarding to do self-employed photography, it is excellent for photographers, who are just settling off, to initially find contacts and make a name with journals and tabloids. This is in addition the top place to profit familiarity in photography as you will come across various sorts as well as mingle with several classes of persons.

Broadsheet photography is tougher and more unstructured in contrast to periodical photography, which is first shot in locations. When laboring for newspapers, one needs to be able to work out an eye for photos that will catch the readers mind as well as state a story with its pictures.

Photographer for Publicity Groups
Another discipline where a photographer may engage is to work for a publicity group where they will be creating ads for drives. One can commence as a photographer and then slowly go up through the positions. One can even develop into an art director or even a manager for the whole operations.

Photographer for Luxury Shoots
A photographer may furthermore work in style shoots. With much knowledge, they might even conceptualize a shoot and be its general director. A number fashion houses get photographers when thinking of a new compilation for the season.

Photographer for Significant Happenings
Happenings such as concerts and exceptional events like weddings and debuts will call for photographers who will chronicle the affair. Images are truly a significant part of the preparation for the happening and is nearly as important as the food.

Casual Photographer
Though it will be tougher for photographers that are just new in the area

to set up a job as a self-employed photographer, there are several markets where they can add their masterworks. Like most international organizations, for instance UNICEF, take photographers to chronicle their numerous projects in far-flung fields. There are moreover a few who are engaged to share general photographs that will be employed in newsletters and brochures.

Photography Tips - Improving Fuzzy / Blurry Photos

It may be helpful to look at some references on how to stop photographs from being blurry, what type of gear should be used and what to do if the background is not right.

Fuzzy photographs can usually be narrowed down to one or more of three causes.

Either the focus of the photograph was not in focus, the camera moved during the exposure time, or a too low resolution was used. To combat this, several methods can be used.

If the focus slipped from the subject, then it probably is best to retake the photo. Learning how the camera focuses and choosing between auto and manual focus make it easier to take the photos.

Using a camera stand, or other means to balance and place the camera on, may help stop motion fuzziness. If the camera shifts while the photo is being exposed, there will probably be motion blur in the photo.

Perhaps the least likely cause of fuzzy photos is a low resolution. Most inexpensive cameras have a high enough megapixel count that this is not really a problem, but lots of professional photographers will choose to set their cameras so that they are using the largest file size, thus having the highest resolution possible.

For product photography, flashes are not always necessary. Professionals will often use strobes to photograph portraits, but since there is little chance of the item causing motion blur, overhead or ambient light may be enough. Let the kind of photography be a guide.

Fixing the color of a background can frequently be a pitfall, particularly if the background is supposed to be white. The built in light meter of a camera will often gauge a white background to be grey, which may make it look dull in pictures.

To correct this, usually the meter can be overruled, and the photographer can change the exposure. Some photo manipulation on a computer can be used as well, if the problem is not too big.

To make fantastic photographs, it is sometimes useful to keep to use a few tips to make sure that the background is the proper color, the right equipment is used and proper focus is found in a photograph.

Capturing Photos In Various Elements

Choosing when to take a photograph can very much control the disposition of the photos.

A mid-day sun can create dark silhouettes, which can or cannot make the mood of the photo that the individual is looking for. Morning or later evening sun can add a nice, light-soft look, which may make a warm attractive appearance.

If you have time, it's best to take an unlimited amount of photos of the same subject throughout different periods of the day. This way you're sure to get the perfect lighting. Sure it may be time consuming, but if you want excellence, go for it.

Weather conditions could change the mood of the photos. A beautiful sun may craft lovely, welcoming images. This is when the personality of buildings may show through, and it may be nice to include some of the surrounding areas as well. However, one might not want to disregard stormy, rainy weather.

In days of poor weather, this may be the time to go and capture images full of character.

Dark forbidding clouds, rain or snow will add drama to the pictures. One of the best features of rain or snow is the fact that the sidewalks become wet, adding shine or even dimension to the images.

Viewpoint is another aspect to take under consideration when shooting urban landscapes. Taking a photograph from the ground looking up at the building may make the building look huge and intimidating. While taking a photo from shoulder height most likely will create a pretty face on image, where as shooting the image from above can produce some very appealing pictures.

There are certain conventions that are often followed when taking photographs of architecture. One is keeping the skyline level. While there are exclusions to this, it is sometimes best to stick with the basics. Photo manipulation may also be used to level the vertical lines of a building. These two ideas will help lessen any visible stress there may be in the photograph.

Speculative Photography

Speculative photography is different from most other kinds of photography - regulations, like arrangement and exact focusing hold no importance.

The speculative photographer utilizes their inspired mind to produce beautiful masterworks.

As much as people love photos, a lot of them enjoy taking them even more. Whether it's a mother who snaps photos at all of her children's activities in life (first smile, first step, first burger meal) or maybe it's the father who always brings his camera to a football or basketball game, or maybe it's the young girl who goes nature hikes with her camera; these people are no exceptions. They all have an eye for those amazing events and they all value the camera's ability to capture that moment and freeze it in time for a lifetime.

Speculative photography is a way of applying colors and patterns joined together to form an image, with no real significance or no apparent topic included. Speculative photography is not automatically going to connote the same thing to everybody.

If you are deciding to undertake a new sort of photography, conceptual photography will absolutely be an amazing challenge and very satisfying if you master the true art.

Making an abstract image can be effortless - making an amazing abstract image is hard. One of the most basic techniques of producing an abstract image is by employing water and your cameras' shutter jointly. Shooting quick flowing water, using a slow shutter speed of one second will offer you a blur appearance. This is fairly easy to do, but will it seem beautiful?

This might depend on light - shooting water with a deliberate shutter speed when the sun is low in the sky will present your image more appealing colors. Several kinds films will also present numerous colors. Including color filters will moreover boost your conceptual photography. If you are operating a digital camera, filters can be included shortly with Photoshop.

Applying a slow shutter speed to shoot a flag raging in the wind will further provide you an imaginative image.

The secret to keeping conceptual photography beautiful when operating your cameras' shutter is to crop strongly. Fill the view seeker with the blur picture.

Several forms of macro photography can be thought of as abstract. Close-ups of flowers and different plant life will be amazing abstract subjects. As with shooting water - macro abstracts need to be cropped strongly and the image need to have a matter of color. Several street lights may additionally make imaginative photos.

Whichever place we go we is bordered with color, textures and patterns. Patterns would be excellent for attractive conceptual images. New patterns are designed by nature each day and this is the finest place to set off to produce viable speculative portraits.

Protecting Gallery Wraps

The need to protect gallery wraps and has come due to the fact that they do not have frames. In the past, nearly all artwork was displayed with frames.

In modern shows and galleries, these frameless paintings and photographs have become more and more popular, making it necessary to find a way to protect them from the dangers that pop up when there is no frame. To figure this out, we must first start with the differences in the construction of the canvases.

Previously, canvases were stretched over thin, wooden strips called stretcher bars and stapled or tacked on the sides. After the painting was completed, it would be framed. This frame served several purposes. It gave the painting a finished look. It protected the edges of the painting. And it covered the staples or tacks.

Today, thicker stretcher bars measuring one and one quarter to two inches are used. The canvas is then stretched around these bars and the staples or tacks are positioned on the back side. To complete the canvas, the back can be covered with framing paper and fitted with metal hangers and corner bumpers or it can simply be fitted with a wire hanger. This allows the painting to be hung on the wall without a frame and without showing the staples or tacks. It also gives it a 3D look when hung on the wall.

This style has become very popular with galleries and other retail venues looking to sell artwork. It eliminates their need to choose and purchase expensive frames which may or may not resonate with the prospective customer. This reduces the costs which is always welcome.

A frameless painting still needs to be safeguarded from danger. Unprotected corners can become damaged easily. Without a frame, it is more likely that the canvas will suffer scratches, scuff marks and cracks. And, like its framed counterpart, it is vulnerable to U. V. Rays and other environmental hazards.

In order to prevent airborne pollutants including fumes from cleaning solutions and tobacco smoke from penetrating the artwork, a coat of laminate can be applied to the surface. The lamination will also deter cracks, scuffs and scratches, protect the corners and block U.V.rays and other harmful elements in the atmosphere such as hydrocarbons and ozone.

Whether the work of art is a painting, a photograph or a print, there are several composition and options from which you can choose.

Polyester, polycarbonate, copolymer and vinyl are some of the composition choices. Finishes can be matte, gloss luster or velvet. Each of the options has different characteristics allowing you to select the one which best fits your needs.

You can decide to do the work yourself or have it done by an experienced professional. Companies specializing in applying laminates are easily found in the art world. No matter which you choose, to protect your investment, you must protect gallery wraps.

Food Photography

Taking food photos is an art form. It takes a lot of experience to get it right. Non-the-less here are some simple tips to help.

Lighting the scene
The first important technique food photographers should learn, is lighting.

When photographing food you should treat it as you would any other kind of subject and make sure it is lit correctly. Many pictures can be improved by using adequate lighting. Natural light is the best light source to use, by a window is an ideal location. Natural light cuts out the shadows and gives the food a more natural look which all food photographers want.

Using Props
The right props can bring a simple food dish alive. Some food types like fast food is dull and lifeless so choosing the right props of fresh fruit, vegetables, plates, candles, etc., will make the dull become magic. To be a great food photographer you must have a special eye and flair for design. If you have this skill naturally you will fly.

If you do a lot of food photography then shopping at second hand markets can be a great way to build your box of props. You can pick up inexpensive items like large pots, dishes and vases for a few dollars.

Be fast or else
If you're a slower perfectionist then food photography may be hard for you to master.

Like master chefs that throw masterpiece dishes together in minutes, master food photographers capture the essence in minutes, too. "Be quick or else it will be a mess" is the thing to remember with food photography. As soon as food warms or cools, it droops, melts, discolors and a whole range of other things. Once the food is ready, you should be shooting.


A way to improve your food photographs
One simple way is to utilize a high quality, vegetable oil and brush it on the food. This will create a high quality, shiny finish that we love to see on food.

Get to know the chef
You will usually be working with a food professional, be it a stylist or chef.
Take a few minutes before the shoot to talk with the chef and ask them how they like to work. Ask them if there is anything you need to know about the food that may not be obvious. Working off of each other is the best approach.

Freelance Photography

Photography is a huge world. There are several different kinds of photography and masses of people who enjoy different styles.

It can be an inexpensive hobby or one that you can have income from. Pictures are amazing because they give us unforgettable memories of events from certain places and times in our lives. We can store these precious moments forever with a photograph.

The compensation for an excellent, imaginative photograph can certainly be high-in-demand. Art enthusiasts shell out huge amounts of money for a wonderful, abstract masterpiece.

Definition of Freelance Photography?
What if you like photography very much and you think of doing it for a living? This way, you'll actually get paid for your work. Though you work for yourself, you will be paid for each photo or series of photos, individually. You don't report to a boss. You may work on an assignment or you may sell to magazines. That is what freelance photography is about.

Freelance photography could be your whole career or it could start out as anything you want to do in your spare time nevertheless begin making profits from it. It's more like freelance writing in the sense that numerous people make it into a fruitful career while working and having fun at the same time, doing the work for themselves, in their own time and making so much money from doing something they are passionate about.

Advice on How to Create a Portfolio
To start attracting jobs as a freelance photographer, it requires a portfolio. A portfolio gathers samples of your work. Though you never had photographs that were published or publicly displayed, you may start a portfolio of your best photographs, as you never know who will want to see them someday.

How to Attract Jobs
As mentioned already, creating a portfolio is the primary step in submitting your work for pay.

However, when it comes down to it, it's the quality, uniqueness and beauty of the photo that would identify if you get hired for the job. Other people have more of an over-the-top talent for capturing excellent pictures over others, however, it is a skill that anybody can quickly learn.

There are schools meant for the Art of Photography and you can even earn a degree in it. When you are just getting started, you could learn through classes offered by your local community center or community college. Other cities have photography groups that organize to share photos and tips. There are also various groups online created for photography and freelance photography.

Photography Courses

Art, in general, is beauty. No matter what medium it is, artists are able to capture beauty and sustain it for years to come.

In photography, a moment in time can be a lifetime. You wouldn't be surprised if you'd find many people enrolling more and more in photography classes.

A good photography course is very extensive from doing practical exercises to theoretical and in-depth studies about photography.

There are many qualified photography classes available now but you should choose which ones you really like. Good photography classes are not generic in nature, they are very particular. Since anyone can hold a camera, you need to hold a camera and shoot good photos with it. These colleges will give you in-depth studies into the art of photography, including digital. They would offer lessons on advanced-editing of your pictures using software and much more then you could imagine.

Exceptional photography classes are offered in art schools such as the Academy of Art University's School of Photography. They teach students everything they'll need to know and give them the confidence to become successful photographers. They offer traditional as well as digital photography, they have the best teachers for it. Obviously, they are now heralded as one of the best art universities that offer photography today. You can view their student's photo gallery.

You could find work in photography either on Portrait, Magazine, Architecture, Landscape, Advertising or Fashion Photography. Students who have the aptitude in these photography classes will surely find jobs in this field.

You'd be taught how to make photography a business in these courses.

Photography can be very huge in advertising. They will help you find the exact field you're best in, guide you to the best photography classes to take and ensure you'd make it in the business.

Olympus PEN E-P2 Digital Camera Review

The Olympus PEN E-P2 digital camera utilizes a comparable 12.3MP sensor as compared to the earlier E-P1, useful for both still and HD video recording.

The body design of the E-P2 is largely identical, with the major distinction being an alter in body shade and finish.

The body on the Olympus E-P2 digital camera solely remains stainless steel, but this time, over the E-P1, includes a thin covering of darkish paint beneath a clear coat, delivering a clear, dark exterior, together with black trim panels.

The E-P2's add-on slot allows the use of the VF-2 electronic viewfinder as well as to enable the use for an external microphone via a recommended adapter.. Olympus’s external EVF features relatively higher standards as compared to other brands.

The Olympus E-P2 digital camera of course boasts modifications in several other areas, as well. The camera’s auto-focus system presently has subject tracking ability in both still and HD video modes, plus the focus assist has improved to promptly center its 7x and 10x zoom around the chosen AF point, ideal for fine-tuning focus of an off-center subject, personally.

Also introducing the new i-Enhance shooting function which changes photo color to fully stand-out the primary subject, and a pair of exclusive Art filters in addition to the 6 featured on the E-P1.

This camera is really giving you everything you need to take astonishing photos.

Video fans are going to be thrilled to discover manual control of shutter speed, aperture and ISO sensitivity while recording a video clip. Video is also recorded at HD 720p quality.

Olympus E-P2 Features:

12.3-Megapixel Live MOS imager yielding 4032x3024 pixel images (4:3 aspect ratio)

Choose from 4:3, 3:2, and 16:9 aspect ratios

Micro Four-Thirds lens mount system

Compatible with Four Thirds mount and Olympus OM lenses using optional adapters (MMF-1 and MF-2 OM)

In-body (sensor-shift) Image Stabilization system

TruePic V Image Processor

Olympus System Supersonic Wave Filter Dust Reduction System

iAuto (intelligent), Program AE, Aperture/Shutter Priority, Full Manual, and Custom exposure control

19 pre-programmed Scene modes as well as 8 "Art Filter" modes

Compressed RAW and JPEG (Fine/Standard) formats, including RAW+JPEG (Fine or Normal)

1 custom and 6 preset "Picture" modes, including new iEnhance option

In-camera image editing options, including RAW processing

TTL Auto White Balance system with several presets, one-touch custom set, white balance compensation, and bracketing options

sRGB or Adobe RGB Color Space options

TTL 324-area ESP metering system with 18x18 grid, Center-weighted average and Spot options

Shutter speeds from 2 - 1/4000 sec. seconds and Bulb

Burst shooting at 3fps (max. 10 RAW images, or approx. 12 JPEG)

11-area Contrast Detect AF system with Single AF (S-AF), Continuous AF (C-AF), Continuous AF Tracking (C-AF+TR), Manual (MF / S-AF + MF) and Face Detection focusing modes

Focus assist magnifies the live image by 7 or 10x to help userss during manual focusing

3.0-inch color LCD with 230,000 pixels, 100% frame coverage, and 15 levels of brightness adjustment

New VF-2 electronic viewfinder that attaches via the flash hot shoe, and articulates up to 90°

EVF monitor adjustments for brightness and hue (±7 levels each)

Super Control Panel information display

Record Motion JPEG (.AVI) movies at 720p HD (1280x720) or SD (640x480) resolutions (30fps) with stereo sound

Manual exposure control in movie mode; adjust both shutter speed and aperture values

Built-in digital level sensor and gauge helps you capture level shots

Optional Optical Viewfinder (VF-1) for use with 17mm "Pancake" F2.8 Micro Four Thirds Lens

Auto ISO sensitivity from 200 - 6400, Manual from 100-6400, 1/3 or 1EV steps (Movie mode 160 - 1600)

Built-in hot shoe for external units

Noise Reduction for long exposures

SD/SDHC/MMC memory card storage

Selectable video output with NTSC or PAL format

HD output via MiniHDMI Type C I/O port

Built-in stereo microphones

Optional EMA-1 microphone input jack for optional external mics

Accessory port accepts new VF-2 and EMA-1 adapter as well as future optional accessories

CEC compliant

USB 2.0 (High-speed) data and control interface

Included BLS-1 Li-ion battery and compact BCS-1 AC charger

VistaQuest VQ 1030TS Digital Camera Review

VistaQuest has introduced it's high-featured, 10MP VQ 1030TS digital camera. Not designed for the professional photographer, however, created for a

person who wants to take good photos on a daily basis with a camera that's compact enough to fit in their pocket and utilizes characteristics of a camera selling for twice as much.

The VistaQuest VQ 1030TS digital camera offers a 10MP sensor that's suitable for the most common photo prints and up to 3264 x 2236 resolution. If you need to zoom on the action, the VQ 1030TS features a 3x optical zoom lens which allows you to get closer without losing image quality.

If your subject(s) are moving around or you swing to your right to capture a photo, there's no need to worry about out of focus images thanks to its auto-focus feature. Simply wait a brief moment and the VQ 1030TS digital camera focuses on what you're attempting to capture.

Not only will you benefit from auto-focus, but the VQ 1030TS also features face recognition and red-eye removal which makes this digital camera great for portraits and snapping photos of your friends.

Another wonderful feature on the VistaQuest VQ 1030TS digital camera is the front-finger-grip. Located on the left-front of the digital camera, using your middle-finger will give you a more of a secured feeling and grip while taking photos as your pointer-finger presses the capture button, on top.

Image formats will be saved as JPEG (DCF), EXIF 2.2 and DPOF 1.1. If you think this digital camera can only capture photos, think again.

The VQ 1030TS digital camera can also record video clips at 720x480(D1), 640x480(VGA) and 320x240(QVGA) at 30fps and saves it as AVI (MJPEG).

The 3" TFT LCD touch-screen is not only vibrant, but it allows you to quickly "touch" menu controls and browse through menu options without needing additional buttons on the actual camera itself.

Canon Powershot S95 Digital Camera Review

The Canon PowerShot S95 digital camera is a compact point and shoot camera that provides a great deal of professional features.

Geared towards the professional photographer wanting a competent point and shoot, the Canon S95 digital camera features have improved handling and greater levels of manual control as compared to the older s90. The state-of-the-art lens Control Ring, which allows users to modify the configurations of numerous functions by rotating the selector at the base of the lens to the left or right, currently delivers more flexibility, and also the image stablizing system utilizes Hybrid IS technology for sharper macro-mode photos.

An in-camera High Dynamic Range mode serves to photograph high-contrast scenes and Multi-Aspect photographing with 3:2, 4:3, 1:1, 16:9 and 4:5 formats enables you to become more creative. There’s also 720p Hi-def 24fps video recording along with stereo sound. Features kept from the prior S90 incorporate the same 10MP CMOS sensor, a 3" LCD viewing screen using a resolution of 461K dots, 3.8x optical zoom lens with very fast optimum aperture of f/2.0, extensive array of manual shooting modes and RAW format support. The Powershot S95 is available in black.

The Powershot S95 digital camera requires around 2-3 seconds to turn on and take photos, you can expect to wait around 2-3 seconds between taking photos and shutter lag averages just over a 1/2 second, therefore the S95 feels extremely quick.

Imatest was used to gather object details with regards to image quality. With regards to sharpness, the Canon S95 digital camera provided an average of 1,858 lines per photo height, which is great for a point and shoot. Photos captured at ISO 3200 were also good along with the S95 being a superb low-light shooter, and can operate in almost all conditions without using flash.

Video files shot in 720p30 Hi-def come out equally as wonderful. The great part is that the video files are composed as .MOV, which lets you upload them directly onto YouTube and other similar sites.

Connection possibilities on the S95 digital camera are stellar.

You'll find a universal mini-USB port allowing you to connect to your laptop or computer and a standard mini-HDMI port for direct-connect to an HDTV for Hi-def photo and video clip playback. The S95 digital camera writes photos and videos to SDXC as well as SDHC cards, which gives you a few more options.

Samsung TL350 / WB2000 Digital Camera Review

The newly state-of-the-art compact TL350 / WB2000 digital camera from Samsung is equipped with a Schneider 5x optical zoom lens with a 24mm equivalent wide angle, a 10MP CMOS sensor and a lot

of additional features to keep the enthusiast satisfied. It's placed just beneath their top-end EX1 digital camera.

Into the Features
For a compact digital camera geared towards advanced users, the WB2000 / TL350 is nicely specified, exhibiting a 10.1MP high sensitivity CMOS sensor to capture photos up to ISO3200 as well as a Schneider 5x optically stabilized zoom lens that handles a range equal to 24-120mm on a 35mm camera. The CMOS sensor is additionally among the new high-speed versions that enables video recording at 1000fps during decreased resolution and also continuous shooting at speeds as high as 10fps at the full 10MP resolution.

Total manual exposure control is achievable and a pair of direct control dials make adjusting configurations fast and simple. To get a a bit more automation both shutter and aperture-priority exposure modes are as well presented, together with a fully automated smart mode, which utilizes scene detection to select the appropriate automatic scene program.

People who desire to explore manually might also be thrilled to find out that this digital camera can easily capture photos in a RAW image format, enabling more opportunity with editing later on and compression-free quality photos.

The Samsung WB2000 / TL350 digital camera also includes a range of detections, and although a lot of digital cameras are now becoming standard with this, it's just another perk: Face Detection, Blink Detection and Smile Detection are all provided. The only detection this digital camera doesn't have is radar detection for when you're speeding down the highway.

A Unique Touch
Something that you may never notice on digital cameras are Analog Dials. Well, this one has two, on the top. One is for the battery power and the other is for the memory card capacity. It's very different, and some people may like the look and others may not.

Samsung TL350 / WB2000 Manufacturer Features

Black Color - Color of the casing of the camera.

10 Effective Megapixels - Amount of pixels in a camera’s chip that detect light and contribute to the final image.

4.3-21.5mm - Distance from a lens to it’s focal point. In digital cameras, focal length can change when zooming.

F/2.4-5.8 - Range of settings that control aperture (amount of light allowed to reach a camera’s image sensor).

+/- 2EV (1/3 EV steps) Compensation Options - Automatically adjusts exposure values (EV) to make the most of ambient lighting conditions.

Program AE, Manual Aperture Adjustment ( 21 steps) Control - Method in which exposure settings can be adjusted. Program AE is an easy-to use mode menu.

ISO Equiv Settings - Dictates how sensitive a camera’s digital sensor is to light. Use higher ISO in darker conditions.

Multi, Spot, Center-weighted Metering Systems - Set of modes that represent which aspect of the image will determine the exposure for a given shot.

Supports Still Image:JPEG, DCF, EXIF 2.21, DPOF 1.1, PictBridge 1.0,Movie Clip:Container:MP4, Video:H.264, Audio:AAC - How images and data are stored when uploaded to a computer or printed directly from camera.

External memory: SD Card(up to 4GB guaranteed),SDHC (up to 8GB guaranteed) - How photos and videos are stored on a camera. Additional cards can be inserted for more memory.

Pause during recording, Still Image Capture, Time Trimming - High-feature mode that enables videos to be edited directly on the camera, without a computer.

10fps, 5fps, 3fps, Precapture, Single, interval, 10sec, 2sec, BRK, Raw file support - Mode that allows creative array of preset or custom effects to be applied to a video.

10fps, 5fps, 3fps, Precapture, Single, interval, 10sec, 2sec, BRK, Raw file support - The recording of images. A variety of modes and settings can be applied to optimize each photograph.

Pause during recording, Still Image Capture, Time Trimming - High-feature mode that enables videos to be edited directly on the camera, without a computer.

10fps, 5fps, 3fps, Precapture, Single, interval, 10sec, 2sec, BRK, Raw file support - Mode that allows creative array of preset or custom effects to be applied to a video.

Movie Size:1920x1080 High/Standard Quality, 1280x720 Standard Quality, 640x480, 320x240, 432x320, 224x160, 192x64,* Speed Dial (1000 fps, 420fps, 240 fps, 60fps, 30fps, 10sec(timer), 2sec(timer)),* Format:H.264 (Max. Recording time:20min.),* Stereo recording with volume control, mute during zoom operation (user option),* Voice(On/Off), OIS(On/Off),* Movie capture button,* Smart Auto Movie (Landscape, Blue Sky, Natural Green, Sunset),Full-size Dual Capture - The capture of moving images. A variety of modes and settings can be applied to optimize each clip.

5-85% Humidity Range - Minimum and maximum air moisture in which a camera will operate, as measured in percentage.

Digital Image Stabilization - Technology that minimizes or prevents blurred images due to unwanted camera shake.

Epson Stylus Pro 3880 Photo Printer

The compact size of the Epson Stylus Pro 3880 photo printer, 27"x15"x10", is capable of delivering surprisingly massive prints of up to 17" x 22".

The print quality is greatly superior to the Epson 2200 photo printer with the use of the Ultra Chrome K3 which contains Vivid Magenta Ink. This technology results in strong shades of blue and purple. The printer is equipped with a sophisticated black and white setting which creates professional grade black and white prints from monochrome or color images. The Advanced MicroPiezo AMC cartridge capabilities a one-inch print head distributing 9 distinct inks. This cartridge also uses an ink repellant within the coating which increases precision.

The Stylus Pro 3880 photo printer has the capacity to effectively print on all of the print papers such as glossy, matte, semi-matte, art board and fiber paper up to a thickness of 1.5mm. The auto-switch feature makes it simple to accurately print on just about any media. The technological improvements Epson has implemented in this model vastly increase print excellent by implementing Accuphoto HD2 screening algorithms.

Most users of the Epson Stylus Pro 3880 photo printer have reported a significant increase pertaining to ease-of-use over the 220 model. Professional and amateur users alike rave about the superior print quality too, as the fact that they no longer want to alter cartridges to switch from matte to photo black ink for various kinds of prints.

The previous issues with metamerism, gloss or bronzing have been eliminated in the 3880 model, as well.

For the high quality of prints the Epson Stylus Pro 3880 photo printer delivers, the price is comparatively low compared to other photo printers. It efficiently uses ink even though there is certainly some loss when switching between matte and photo black. For all the technological improvements in this model, the flimsy print tray seems like a style afterthought.

Editing Your Photos - Photoshop Elements

Which version of Photoshop Elements Should you Be Using?

The first thing that you want to do is understand how Adobe has broken down their Photo Editing Software; they have created two separate categories of programs.

If you are beginning to learn how to use photo editing software then Photoshop Elements is the program for you, whereas Photoshop is aimed towards people who have experience using editing software programs and wish to make more advanced editing adjustments to their photos. Most people tend to start by using Elements and when they become more experienced they will move onto Photoshop.

Ok, now every so often Adobe update their Elements software to a new version, and currently we are at Elements 7. When they decide to update the software, it is normally just to keep one step ahead of all those hackers out there, who would rather steal their product.

If you have been using Photoshop Elements for a while already and are wondering if you should invest in the latest upgrade I recommend that you put your money towards the latest version of Photoshop, currently in CS4, as it would include any tools you may be missing out on in Elements.

If you want to learn how to use Elements proficiently then I recommend you look into any one of the variety of tutorials that are available on the Internet and which are pretty much universal to the versions.

Don't worry too much if the screen in the video appears different from yours as the videos are designed to help you out with 90% of the tools on any Photoshop Elements version.

If you don't already own the Photoshop Elements software, don't worry if the version you buy isn't the latest one as you will always get the best training skills that will enable you to conquer any Photoshop Elements version in no time at all.