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Investing in a good camera - worth it?

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  • 31-03-2011 8:01am
    #1
    Cianos
    Registered Users Posts: 4,850 ✭✭✭


    Hey folks,
    I'm just wondering would web designers advise investing in a good camera in order to take pics of clients premises, products and so on for websites?

    Has anyone found that even though they can use a camera, their shots are still amateurish and to get them up to scratch would require a lot of time and effort in learning a lot more about the camera and photography in general?

    Does anyone prefer outsourcing that side of things to a more dedicated photographer?

    Any tips would be great!


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    #2
    CabanSail
    Moderators, Category Moderators, Arts Moderators, Entertainment Moderators Posts: 9,047 CMod ✭✭✭✭CabanSail


    There is no simple answer here.

    The quality of the photo is NOT the resolution of the file. To produce a good photograph is not that much about the camera, though having the appropriate tools will help. To get shots with a shallow depth of field (only the subject in focus and the rest soft), as seen in some product shots, requires a fast lens and a large sensor.

    You will also require a good understanding of exposure and how to work with light. This will not come from putting a camera on Auto and letting it make the decisions. The composition of the image is also a skill which will make a huge difference to the final outcome.

    If you require Flash then that is a whole extra area. It is rare that flash on the camera delivers a pleasing shot, but positioning and controlling flash is another big area. In something like Property Photography this can involve multiple shots which are later combined to make the final image.

    It is rare for a really good image to come straight out of the camera. They require post production to process the RAW images that have been taken.

    If you want to learn how to improve your photo's then the folk over in the Photography Forum where they will assist you. If you are looking for a Photographer then have a look through the Sticky Thread there for Services Offered & Wanted.


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    #3
    BrianD
    Closed Accounts Posts: 7,221 ✭✭✭BrianD


    CabanSail is spot on. A good quality camera (and accessories) is only part of the equation. The main factor is having a good eye to set up a shot and frame it. Simple rules like the 2/3rds rule can make such a difference even if you are using a low quality camera.

    Also it's worth having some photo software so you can crop and treat your photos afterwards.


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