How To Sell Photographs On Your Own Easy-To-Build Free Website!

Posted on September 14, 2010 by Guest Writer

Paul Summers

When you are looking at how to sell photographs, having your own website has many advantages. Prospective customers can look at your work, and people can find you online via search engines. In the long-term, a proper website constructed by a professional is going to be far better for you. However, there are ways to set up your own free photography website, which obviously helps when you are starting out. Zero programming knowledge is required, too.

First of all go to flickr.com and set up an account. All the photographs you want on your website should then be uploaded there. We are going to build your website on a blogging platform called Squidoo.

Squidoo call their web-pages lenses. Go to squidoo.com and create an account. You will be asked what website address you wish to use. For search engines to know what sort of business you are and where you are based you should include this in the website address. For instance, if I was looking at how to sell photographs by representing local bands in Florida, my address could be squidoo.com/musicphotographyflorida.

If you can't get the name you want, shuffle the order of the words around, e.g. floridamusicphotography. If these variations are taken then use hyphens e.g florida-musicphotography. Once you have your website address and account set up it is time to design it and add pictures.

In your edit lens page you will see a menu. This allows you to add different sections to your lens. Everything on your lens will be in modules, and these are sections that can hold text, pictures, links etc. Firstly, go to the themes menu and pick out a background colour scheme. Once complete, fill out your lens bio, a description of your lens. Next you need to add text boxes and photo boxes from the add module section, and write about what you are doing, plan to do, and, of course, add examples of your work.

After you have a basic lens created you need to add keywords. Keywords are what people would type into their computer if they were looking for your services, so make sure you have plenty of them, and that most include the area you are running your business from. It is pointless to have someone 1000 miles away looking at your lens if they can't book you, but if one of your keywords were "Florida Music Photographer" then this would result in a visitor in that region, that had a probability of hiring you.

If you want your lens to show up nicely in the search engines then you also need to create back-links, and the best way to do this is visit photography or local blogs and leave comments. A back link is when another website links to yours, and the search engines see that link and consider your website to be important.

When you leave a comment on someone's blog, it gives you the option of entering in your website address. If you do this and put your name as "Florida Music Photographer", for example, Google consider this a vote for your website, and confirmation about the subject of your lens. Try to make between 20-100 of these links a month, as this will greatly increase your chances of getting your website to the top of the search results.

Hopefully you will see that, if you are considering how to sell photographs, having your own free and easy to set up website is going to be a big boost to business.

You can learn how to sell photographs, by following my step by step guide that shows you how to make a fantastic second income from your photography. Discover how to do this without the need for pro equipment or pro skills. Check out http://www.howtosellphotographs.org for full details.

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Beginners Photography – When and How to Use Manual Mode on Your Digital SLR!

Posted on September 13, 2010 by Guest Writer

 Paul Summers

In previous Beginners Photography articles I have described Automatic and Creative Auto Modes of your Digital SLR. Now, let's consider Manual Mode. To many people new to digital photography, just the words "manual mode" are enough to start their knees shaking nervously. Surely, one of the benefits of modern cameras is that much of the tough decision making is taken out of your hands, so that you can concentrate on picture composition, and actually taking the shot? Whilst this is largely true, there will always be times when ultimate control should stay in the photographer's hands - tricky lighting conditions, for example.

The information here is based on a Canon 450D, but will be similar for a Nikon or equivalent model. Firstly, switch the Mode dial to M. The camera is now in full manual exposure mode. Scary huh? Not a bit of it! The main dial behind the shutter will now give you access to shutter speeds. Typically these range from Bulb setting (shutter stays open for as long as you press it) to 30 seconds to 1/4000 sec.

Let's look at Aperture. Using an 18-55mm IS lens the range is anything from f3.5 (widest) to f/22 (smallest), varying with the amount of zoom being applied. Hold down the Av +/- button and rotate the main dial to change the aperture. You could refer to my previous beginners photography articles concerning Aperture if you need to know more about this subject.

Checking Exposure. The main point of using Manual Mode is that increased exposure, either through slower shutter speeds or larger aperture, results in brighter pictures. Conversely, less exposure makes darker images. To check the exposure level, lightly press the shutter, and read the Exposure Level Indicator on the back of the camera. It will show as a linear reading from -2 to +2.

So, in what sort of situations will manual Mode help you out? If you are taking portraits, strong backlighting is sometimes used. You can adjust aperture and shutter speeds if the usual exposure compensation is not enough. In a flash portrait scenario, you can set longer or shorter manual exposures to brighten or darken the background - the flash will adjust itself accordingly to give correct exposure to the subjects. And in night cityscapes, auto exposures can leave you with pitch darkness. Using apertures of f/8 or f/11 in Manual Mode should help - plus an exposure of about 10 seconds (note: a tripod would help in this situation).

In Manual Mode, you have more influence on the resulting image - rather than relying on auto modes which can allow the camera to dictate and interpret a situation incorrectly. For beginners, photography should be about taking the chance to experiment, for it is here where you will ultimately learn what works and what doesn't, in any given situation. After all, after reviewing your images, you can delete what you don't like. When the images are safely on your PC, take time to review the shooting data of the files (images) that worked - so you know what settings to select next time you use Manual Mode.

Discover how easy it is to take memorable photographs simply by following a beginner's photography course online. Please check out http://www.photographycourseonline.info for further information.

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Telephoto Lenses Explained – The Quick Guide to Understanding Telephoto Lenses

Posted on September 12, 2010 by Guest Writer

Shannon Evans

Understanding telephoto lenses is the easy part of selecting a lens to buy for your digital SLR camera. Selecting the right lens in the shape and size that fits your needs is the hard part! There are only a few major camera brands and models to choose a camera from but the number of lenses available will make your head spin! How do you find the best Nikon telephoto lenses? How do you select the best telephoto lens for an Olympus camera? How do you know which telephoto lenses for Canon Rebel cameras are right for the right job? Which sigma telephoto lenses for Nikon D80 is the one for you? Where do you go to get telephoto lenses explained? 

If you are overwhelmed by the choices you are not alone. Digital SLR lenses come in all shapes and sized and prices! Some are for amateur photographers and others are designed specifically for professionals who need a studio work lens like a Tiffen close up lens or journalists need sports telephoto lenses. 

So let's have a look at the basics of lens selection and the driving factors for this important and potentially really expensive investment: 

  1. Camera Type - what brand of camera you have DOES determine lens compatibility. Not all brands are interchangeable. Just like cars, manufacturers won't you dedicated to their brand. Camera lenses now must 'talk' to the camera. That is how aperture settings get automatically changed by the camera's input. Due to that your camera and your lens have to speak the same 'language'...the language of Nikon lenses to Nikon cameras and Canon lies to Canon Camera.
  2. Lens Mount - the lens mount is the way the lens 'fits' on the camera body. Manufacturers have their own specific design so that you must buy lenses specific to that camera and that manufacturer. There are third party lens makers but when selecting one of their lenses you must select the style of lens with your camera brand's compatible mount.
  3. Right Lens for Right Job - knowing what you intend to use the lens to capture helps you narrow the decision of the type of lens to purchase. You must know the focal length of the types of pictures you wish to take as well as the maximum aperture. A normal lens is akin to what the human eye sees (usually a 50mm lens that comes standard on a 35 mm camera). A zoom lens (telephoto lens) lets us 'see' beyond the human eye. We can 'see' much further with a telephoto lens than we can normally. It enhances and expands our view. The larger the lens number in mm the greater the distance the lens can shoot. If you are shooting birds on the far side of the river you will want a 300-750mm perhaps. If you are on the sidelines at your kids' lacrosse game you might prefer a 200-500mm lens. Like your dad always said, "Choose the right tool for the right job!"

 

It does not matter if you are looking for the best Nikon telephoto lenses or telephoto lenses for Canon Rebel cameras. Even if you want to find the right Sigma camera lens that are compatible with your Olympus DSLR, selection is all based on personal choice of digital lens length and understanding telephoto lenses. 

Lenses come in all shapes and sizes for all types of digital slr cameras. http://Besttelephotolenses.com takes the mystery out of lens selection. You can find the best information and resources for selecting the right digital slr lens for your camera. Having choices in lenses is what makes owning a DSLR fun. It's all in the lenses! 

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Some Revealing News About Olympus SLR Cameras

Posted on September 11, 2010 by Guest Writer

Chris Campbell

As most people know, Olympus is a major manufacturer of some of the best cameras around. More specifically, they manufacture some of the best SLR cameras.

Now, my brother is not a pro photographer, nonetheless, he really enjoys photography. He was given a Canon F by my father, and ever since, he is the camera guru to me.

On his camera he uses a 20D along with a 420EX flash. He also has some lenses which he bought for a couple thousand dollars (crazy, I know). A little while ago I bought an E-500 lens kit for much less than what my brother paid. We can both say that it was a much better buy than what he bought.

When many people take pictures and they turn out bad, their first instinct is to blame the camera. Actually, almost all the time it is not the camera, but furthermore the user. Not everyone who uses a camera is a professional, and most actually have very little knowledge about cameras and photography. I know of people who use lower level cameras than mine, yet still get way better quality photos.

I have realized that when in low light, the E500 is not able to focus as quickly as the 20D which my brother uses. It still does focus, just not as fast. Although, I did some reading around and soon found there is a way around this. This proves that there are ways to overcome problems with most cameras, they just require a bit of research.

Him and I, along with other family members, can all agree that the E500 is much more comfortable to hold, and actually quite a lot lighter compared to my brothers 20D.

We both enjoy the LCD controls on the rear of the camera, with its many features ranging from ISO, to flash speed, to exposure. All of its features seem to be better than that of the 20D, and much easier to access and change (especially a beginner).

Nonetheless, both are outstanding SLR cameras, but each has their own advantages and disadvantages. We noticed as a whole that the E500 does have much less downsides to it, but this may be different for each user. For beginners, I would definitely suggest E500, no questions about it!

Getting the perfect Olympus camera, is never an easy thing, especially with the way digital technology is constantly changing. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful websites online, that can narrow down your search and help you find the Olympus SLR camera with all the features important to you.

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Why Buy an Olympus Evolt E510 Digital SLR Camera?

Posted on September 10, 2010 by Guest Writer

Chris Campbell

Is an SLR camera really worth the extra money? I know I've taken some pretty amazing photographs using just a simple, cheap point and shoot camera. I'm sure everyone has. Sometimes it's just a matter of being at the right place, and recognizing a moment that would make a memorable photo. So, is buying a camera like the Olympus E510 SLR really necessary? Maybe. It's true that a good tool in the hands of a competent artist can create great art, but lets carefully examine that tool before jumping to any conclusions.

In photography, dynamic range is defined as a cameras ability to capture all the bright and dark areas of a subject or scene. In other words, if there are dimly lit areas of a picture, and very brightly lit areas of the same picture, a camera with good dynamic range should be able to reproduce both very accurately. Unfortunately, the Olympus E510 struggles in the area of dynamic range. Of course, what your taking pictures of will determine if dynamic range is a big consideration for you in your camera purchase. Landscape photography with it's unpredictable and diverse play of light demands a great deal of dynamic range from a camera, whereas portraits shot in a studio environment with controlled lighting do not.

Even though the E510 is a SLR camera, and allows for a lot of manual tweaking of it's setting, it also comes with several auto settings. Default settings for macro, landscape, action and sports are all included. This is nice if your a first time SLR user, as many Olympus E510 purchaser will be. The problem however is the calibration of the auto settings seems to wander to the dark side. New purchasers taking their first few photos with the auto settings, may end up thinking there is something wrong with their camera. If you do buy a E510, be sure to learn how to make manual adjustments early on to get the best pictures possible.

The entry level SLR market is competitive no doubt. Manufacturers try to entice customers to their brand with a good entry level SLR, with the hopes they'll be spending lots down the road on lenses, peripherals, and upgrades. Unfortunately, Olympus seems to have comprised on build quality with the E510 to compete here. Buttons and controls don't seem durable or instill confidence that they will still be in place after several hundred presses. The lens that comes with the Evolt seems uneven in it's movement, and has a tendency to stick.

There are other items of concern with the E510 Evolt, but I think you get the idea. There are a multitude of contenders in the entry level SLR category, to consider, and the E510 is one of them. It just may not be final best choice for some photographers. What it really comes down to, is how you want to take pictures and which camera that allows you to do that best.

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What’s the Best SLR Canon Camera?

Posted on September 9, 2010 by Guest Writer

Chris Campbell

Well, it's about time you've chosen leave the kids stuff behind, and move on up to the best SLR Canon camera. SLR digital cameras used to be expensive, but not anymore. Now, don't get yourself all panicky worrying about all those buttons and dials a SLR camera comes with.

Today, I get, to illuminate you in all things SLR related. Like trying something different, it takes a little mind over matter to get truly comfortable using a SLR. If your the type that needs to understand all the finer points of any product before handing over your credit card, this could be a very lengthy adventure for you.

Well, let's get started shall we. This sounds a little off the wall, but the cool stuff packed in these babies, is fun to play with. Your just going to have to go along with me. Just ask people in the business of digital photography, and they'll tell you how challenging and demanding the market is. The good news for you lucky reader, is better cameras every year, at prices that were unheard of even a year or two ago.

Today, begin to look forward to your impending purchase, as here's news you'll want to hear. I will promise, that you will be happy with your purchase, no matter which of the best rated single lens reflex cameras you purchase. No matter how hard you try, it's damn difficult to buy a louse single lens reflex in the bunch. To prove it, just have a view of everything included in this bunch of SLRs. It would be hard to be faulted with a Canon Rebel XSi, now that prices had to be lowered due to the T1i release. I'm also a fan of the Olympus Evolt model line, or the Nikon D90.

You know that getting any of these cameras for about $1000 or less is bound to put a smile on anyone's face. Considering all the features in these cameras, it's well worth the money. It really makes me feel like a sucker when I think of how much I spent on my very first digital camera.

I make these sweeping generalizations when it comes to photography, because I know, that whichever of the best SLR Canon cameras you use is only one consideration in the value of your pictures. A learned ability to find photographic opportunities in your minds eye is the most significant part of the picture taking process. A gifted lensman can take insightful photographs with just about any lens and body.

More and more people are buying their cameras on line today. Deciding to buy online is the best way to compare prices, and find a larger selection of cameras to choose from.

Well, that's about as elementary as I can make it. Well, you can't research forever, which of the best SLR Canon cameras is it going to be? I'm not convinced about everyone else, but I'd rather be taking some cool photographs, than shopping for one.

Getting the best SLR Canon camera, is never an easy thing, especially with the way digital technology is constantly changing. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful websites online, that can narrow down your search and help you find the DSLR camera with all the features important to you.

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Why Not Buy A Canon EOS 40D Digital SLR Camera?

Posted on September 8, 2010 by Guest Writer

Chris Campbell

Will a better camera ensure that you take better pictures? The short answer is of course "yes". The slightly longer answer is of course equally obvious "it depends". I like the long answer myself, as the inevitable follow up debate is far more interesting. Perhaps though what you should be asking is, "Will buying a Canon EOS 40D Digital SLR Camera ensure I take better pictures?". Of course you already know "it depends" is the answer. But, exactly what does it depend on?

I depends on several things. First of all, what's your photographic history? If all you've ever taken pictures with are simple point and shoot cameras, then you better be committed to learning. The EOS 40D has a myriad array of features and quirks you'll need to understand. The most obvious one being that you can't frame your photos with the LCD. Coming from a point and shoot world, most users would think there's something wrong with the camera. In reality, that's just the way SLR cameras are designed. It basically means you need to use the viewfinder, which shows you the truest representation of your image before you press the shutter button.

If that's a problem for you, then stick with the point and shoots, or keep your eyes open for the next few months as Canon and other manufacturers start to roll out SLR cameras with something called "Live View".

Another reason to stay away from buying a Canon EOS 40D, is something those of us that own boats like to call 2 footitis. It's simply a condition where it doesn't matter what you have or how good something you own is... you always want something bigger and better. Buying the latest and greatest camera can be both a slippery and expensive slope. I've heard from one EOS 40D owner, who really grew to hate his 40D simply because it couldn't compare with the color reproduction of another SLR camera that cost almost $700 more. Not to hard to guess what he did. He got a new camera, and eBay got another listing for a barely used Canon EOS 40D.

So, back to the original question. Will buying the EOS 40D ensure you take better pictures? It depends on whether you put in the time to learn what the 40D is capable of, and then taking the time to put that knowledge into practice... by practicing. It depends on whether you understand the principles of what makes up a good picture. Composition, lighting, good timing, artistry, and knowing when and when not to squeeze the shutter. That's what enables you to take better pictures.

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Canon DSLR Camera Online Comparison

Posted on September 7, 2010 by Guest Writer

 Erin G Kelly

If you like a Canon DLSR Camera and you are considering buying a camera online it is good to get a bit of background on the Canon digital cameras that are available.

DSLR is an abbreviation for Digital Single Lens Reflex. This gives the photographer the ability to view the exact picture they will be taking. With other digital cameras the image seen through the view finder is not the exact image that will show up on the picture.

A DSLR camera gives the photographer more control over how the picture will turn out because what the view finder shows is what will be revealed on the photo. This is due to the fact that the primary lens of the view finder is the same lens that captures the photo.

When you are considering a Canon digital camera, your purchase will be swayed by your skill level. If you are a beginner or amateur, you will like the Canon Rebel XS. This is a nice camera with simpler functionality. It is also compatible with other Canon lenses from older models, which is a bonus.

If you are an established or professional photographer you will want a more advanced model such as the Canon Rebel T1i 500D. This camera will be more expensive then the more amateur Canon Rebel XS model. However, the quality and versatility will be noticeably better. The Canon Rebel T1i has an ISO range of 100-12800.

If you are looking for a more middle of the road camera, then you may want to consider the Canon 50D. This is a nice efficient camera which will satisfy the needs of most photographers. It has an ISO range of 100-12800 and it is light weight coming in at about 29 ounces (822 grams) making it nice to handle.

The right camera can give you years of enjoyment so take your time and find the right Canon DSLR Camera for you.

Compare and learn more about Canon DLSR cameras at Buy Camera Online website.

Click this link for more on Canon and Nikon Cameras and where to get the best prices for a camera online.

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7 Simple Digital Photography Tips For 2010

Posted on September 6, 2010 by Guest Writer

 Scot Voelker

It doesn't matter if you are a seasoned photographer or if your new camera appeared under the Christmas Tree this year. New Year's Eve tends to make people reflect over the past year and look forward to new possibilities in the coming year.

Tradition has it that we should make some sort of list to try and motivate us to achieving greater success in different areas of our lives. It is no different for the professional photographer or the budding photographer. Making a list of New Year's Resolutions can be positive and encouraging. Here are 7 simple photography tips for 2010 that will help you all year long.

Tip #1: Read Your Camera Manual.

It doesn't matter if you've never read it or perhaps read it several years ago. It's always good to refresh your memory and perhaps find a hidden nugget you've either never knew or forgot that you had. You can pick up new tips from your photography bible.

Tip #2: Take a Photography Class.

If you're new to photography or if you're seasoned but find yourself a little stale, look for a course that will broaden your horizons. There are numerous courses offered online from beginner to advanced. It is always a good experience to find a local school or experienced photographer that offers hands-on training. It might take a little digging but having 'real' people to talk to and learn from is worth the time and expense.

Tip #3: Join a Camera Cub.

Joining the local camera or photography club can help you network with local photographers. Meeting regularly with them can provide you with educational resources, motivation and offer you encouragement.

Tip #4: Learn to Use Your Lenses.

Chances are you have at least a couple of lenses in your bag. Sometimes we are tempted to buy a new lens when we can't quite get the image we want with the lenses we have. Spend time this year learning how to use the lenses you have to their fullest potential. You might amaze yourself at what can be achieved by making more effective use of what you have.

Tip #5: Use Your Tripod.

I am sure most camera owners have a tripod of some sort laying in a closet or drawer somewhere. Learn to use your tripod and then make use of it regularly. It can increase the sharpness of your image by controlling camera shake and enables you to compose your shots more effectively.

Tip #6: Getting Off the Green Mode.

The auto (green) mode on your digital camera can do a wonderful job of taking snapshots. Take the time to learn about using your manual settings (this can be a scary thing to do) and you will find a whole new world of camera control opens up to you. Search the internet; there are plenty of books and tutorials that can help you learn about exposure, shutter speed and ISO settings.

Tip #7: Take More Photographs.

In photography, as in anything else, practice, practice, practice. In the digital world, there is no reason to limit your picture taking. It does not cost you to develop rolls of film, you simply hit the delete button and start over again. Make a commitment to take at least one photo every day. If you take more, pick out your best shot and save it in a '365 Day' folder. At the end of the year pick out your favorite image for each month, arrange them in a collage then print it. You will be amazed at your progress and have something permanent to remember your year in pictures.

These are just some suggestions, so feel free to add your own.

Scott Voelker is the creator of NewPortraitBiz. He has taught 1,000's of students how to start a photography business. To receive his Free video lessons visit http://newportraitbiz.com
Visit Scott's Blog at http://newportraitbiz.com/blog for even more up to date Free lessons.

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What Makes the Nikon D90 Digital SLR Camera So Good? A Review

Posted on September 5, 2010 by Guest Writer

Rach McBain

The Nikon D90 Digital SLR Camera is a very popular SLR camera at the moment. It is in a very affordable price range, yet it produces professional quality images. As a hobbyist photographer, this camera will delight and you will want to try more and more functions and experiment with different types of photography. The great thing is, the D90 will allow you to learn and grow in your photography knowledge and your photography will grow from being a hobby to becoming a passion.

Best Features Of the Nikon D90 Camera

This camera is a great size to use effectively. It is not too heavy at just 620gm. It is larger than the predecessors the D40 and D60, however it is still lighter and smaller than the higher priced D300. It also feels like a well built and sturdy camera. The buttons all seem to be in the right place as well and are easily accessible.

The most important feature of this camera is the fantastic images it is able to produce. You can literally take this one out of the box and start shooting professional quality images, with absolutely no fuss whatsoever. Offering a 12.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, 11 point auto focus and continuous shooting of 4.5 frames per second, and many more options if required, you can consistently produce top image quality without stressing about light level or subjects moving too fast.

The LCD screen on the back of the camera is one of the best ever produced. It actually shows images in 920,000 pixels, so the color on the screen alone is to be seen to be believed. It is also 3 inches wide, so no need to put the glasses on every time you want to review a picture. There is also another smaller screen on the top of the camera which shows the shooting parameters. This is extremely handy if you want to keep your camera in the one place, and also know exactly which functions you are currently using.

This camera also has a movie mode. This type of feature is included in the majority of digital cameras these days. What is so handy about having a movie mode is that you can capture moments in video if and when you need to. It is truly just a really hand function to have on your digital camera.

The fact that this camera is so easy to use is great for the person who wants to start out in SLR digital photography. The D90 gives you the option to pretty much shoot in auto mode, or you can take photos completely using manual settings. That is the great thing about this camera, you are given options, yet the results will still be outstanding, regardless of which way you decide to use this camera.

Find out more

No matter your level of knowledge of digital photography, the Nikon D90 Digital SLR Camera can meet a variety of needs and demands of today's hobby or professional photographer.

For more in depth information on the this camera and price comparisons for today's best deals, go to www.d90digitalslrcamera.com

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