Benefit of RAW Photography

If someone were to ask you if you shoot your pictures on RAW setting or JPEG and your first thought is "what in the world is RAW setting?" then this post is for you!

The following is a quick comparison of JPEG and RAW files:

JPEG
1. Takes up less file space by compressing the picture.
2. Easier to view on your computer.
3. Easier for posting on the internet.

RAW
1. Does not compress the file, therefore you don’t loose any data from your picture.
2. Images can be fixed in a way that would be very difficult without the data that the RAW file makes available.
3. The biggest advantage of shooting raw is that you have a 16 bit image to work with opposed to a JPG file that only has 8 bit space. This is specifically useful when trying to edit shadows in a picture.

In the end why should you use RAW format for your pictures? Think of it this way, a picture taken in RAW setting is like unprocessed film. It gives you more flexibility and creative options. While pictures taken as JPEG are equivalent to the prints developed from the film, they are nice pictures but you are limited in your ability to edit them. RAW files you can correct mistakes after taking the picture, JPEG you are very restricted in editing your photo.

Quick Note: Not all digital cameras are able to photograph in RAW format, you will have to check the setting on your camera to see if you will be able to shoot with RAW setting.

Wedding Photography Link

Here is a helpful website I found for people who are just getting into wedding photography. It includes helpful tips about wedding photography and even a resourceful checklist that would be helpful for the day of the wedding. Just click on the link.

Editing Pictures Using Layer Manager

Layering_Tutorial

Before


After

How to Reformat a Memory Card

How To Reformat A Memory Card

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Portrait Photography Tips

Here are some portrait shots I took about a year ago. It's fun to look back at old pictures and critique your own pictures, and see how far you have come.




Three Tips I have learned through taking portraits.

1. Details - I am not naturally a person who looks for the details, a stray hair in someones face, or dirt on a subject's shirt. But when photographing a subject it is key to make sure you, as the photographer, catch all of the little details. Or else what could have been a great shot will be ruined by missing a piece of grass that is poking out of the subjects sleeve.

2. Posture - One of the most frustrating things for me when taking portraits is dealing with a subject's posture. This is a difficult problem to overcome. As the photographer you want the subject to feel comfortable, but many times people naturally have bad posture. One way I have found to overcome this issue is playing with different poses. Have the subject prop up on her elbows while lying on her stomach, or have him lean his arm against a tree. Remember a pose does not work for that particular subject don't force it, each subject is different. A pose that may have worked for one subject may not work for another.

3. Come prepared - Treat every photo shoot as if you are getting paid for it. This will stretch your photography skills, build up your portfolio, and might even book you a job. Make sure you have an idea of what you want to get out of the photo shoot. Come with poses in mind, you could even write them down so you have an organized list in front of you. Make sure you have full batteries and empty memory cards. Finally make your subject is comfortable, the more relaxed and comfortable your subject the more likely you will get that "money" shot.