Here’s a little trivia--When was the concept of photography set in motion? It was in the 1830’s, and it proved to be an expensive project. Cameras were huge, heavy, and difficult to carry. Images were processed onto “glass negatives,” and pictures were printed on paper or cardboard.

In 1900, George Eastman (sound familiar) of Kodak Company invented the film camera and the rest is history…It just keeps getting better for all of us photography buffs…Thank you Mr. Eastman!

In the 1990’s, the SLR was born for the more serious minded photographer. It used mirrors (or a prism) and 35mm film. The price tag was extremely expensive and the camera itself was quite heavy. How fortunate we are to have our digital SLR’s. They are very light weight in comparison to their predecessors. The digital SLR is expensive but, you save in the long run on film processing fees.

The basic differences between 35mm film and digital are small---35mm, requires film and processing in a lab. The other uses a media card, which stores your pictures until you down load them to your computer. I suggest that once you download, you immediately burn the pictures to a CD or DVD as a backup. Always make a copy of the original to alter or enhance…

Now, let's talk digital camera's...

A “Point-and-Shoot,” is the camera of choice for people who desire a less complex picture taking experience. It has automatic settings (with a few restrictions) and takes good quality pictures. The resolution (megapixels) varies, and the 3X to 12X zoom lens is not interchangeable. However, some of these cameras do provide a decent focal length of 24mm to 360mm. Their price range is $100.00 to $1,000.00.

Digital SLR’s, provide more creative control for the serious photographer. They provide the flexibility of shooting with preset programs like automatic, portrait, macro, landscape, or manual which provides you that creative edge. The lenses are interchangeable making a variety of focal lengths available. The camera and lenses are light weight and easy to manage. Their price range is $100.00 to $7,000.00 and higher.

The “Absolute Must Do’s” of owning a camera:

• Purchase a camera that’s RIGHT for your style of photography!
• Extremely important--Read your camera booklet thoroughly until you know how to use everything correctly. Knowledge of operation will enhance your picture taking experience.
• Always change your lens away from dust and moisture; keep your camera dry.
• Use only proper cleaning materials on your camera and lens. NEVER clean the inside mirror! If that becomes necessary, take it to a professional camera repair shop.
• Before a shoot, make sure your lens is clean-You don’t want spots or dust to ruin a great picture.
• Buy a good camera bag to carry and store your equipment in. I have a back pack especially designed for cameras. Its easy to carry and everything is at my fingertips.
• Always carry a Polarizer filter and keep a UV filter on each lens that you attach to your SLR.
• Invest in a good tripod—you will find a need for one more often than you think.

Until next time, happy shooting!!!

"There are no rules for good photographs, there are only good photographs."~Ansel Adams