It's time to start writing about a few things that I've learned. Today, I want to mention something that many landscape and architectural photographers choose to ignore. Whenever possible, unless you're simply gathering snapshots, use your tripod when shooting. Even when shooting at a higher shutter speed, there can be a slight movement of your camera as you trigger the shutter. Now just imagine that if you're shooting objects at 500 - 1000 feet away.... if your camera moves a mere 1/64th of an inch, just how that will be compounded at a distance which is hundreds of feet away.
I used to be one that thought a fast shutter speed would overcome some movement but when I used my post processing software to zoom in and examine, it just wasn't as sharp as I'd like. Then I began shooting the same shot, with a tripod and remote trigger, for comparison and guess what? It was tack sharp! That bit of difference may bring a sale or award in a contest. Try the comparison sometime and see what you come up with.
Just recently, a friend who is a fine art professional photographer, was commenting on what made the difference between a pro and a consumer. He said that most people can capture a decent shot with a cheap camera and few skills when the image is viewed at a small size like 8x10 or less. But how many people's image will still look sharp when it is on a 40 inch print? He is so right about that.... so it's very important to shoot it right while in the field and to use whatever equipment you have available. Unless you're exclusively shooting in a studio with controlled lighting, you really should have a quality tripod.
Comments?
Rants, raves, reports, and exhibits from an Oklahoma photographer!!
I couldn't agree more, as even before I upgraded from a point and shoot to a DSLR with a cable release, I bought a decent tripod and used the camera timer.
ReplyDelete-Peter
Peter, you posted the first comment on my new blog... I am thrilled and hope you'll visit again. Additionally, I'm receptive to any feedback on this blog and upit tips as it's a new experience for me. I can get long-winded so thought that a blog would be appropriate.
ReplyDeleteAs to tripod usage, it is one of the most productive things that I began doing. I noticed immediate improvements with image quality. I see people all the time holding their camera incorrectly and shooting hand-held photos.... surely they could see improvements too.
Thanks again for coming by and for posting. I'm very grateful.