Health & Fitness
Your New Digital Camera – Now What?
Learn to use that new Christmas camera! Here are a few hints for getting the most enjoyment out of that new digital camera.
Did Santa bring you a new digital camera for Christmas? Whether you have a simple point-and-shoot, a cell phone camera, or a digital single lens reflex with interchangeable lenses, you have the opportunity to use that little device to capture some priceless memories, but don't forget about just having fun with your camera! According to famous photographer Diane Arbus: "Taking pictures is like tiptoeing into the kitchen late at night and stealing Oreo cookies." Here are a few ideas to make that digital device more fun.
1. Read your camera manual. With the manual in one hand and the camera in the other, check out the features. Check out each of the buttons. Look at all the menu options. Learn to use your camera like you would learn to play a musical instrument.
2. "Play" with your camera. Try those scene settings. Follow the rules. Use your "sunset" settings for sunsets, your "portrait" setting for portraits, and try some things you haven't tried before such as nighttime or close-up photography. Break the rules! Take the same shot with different settings. Be unconventional. Try odd angles or unusual camera positions. Check your results and you go and keep adjusting and shooting.
3. Share your photos. Post them on a social networking site, e-mail them to friends, ask for opinions on your photography. Be your own critic. Do YOU like your photos? Ask yourself what you would do differently next time - then try it!
4. And… take lots and lots of pictures.
5. Finally - Go back and read that camera manual again.
To learn more about taking and making photos, sign up for Pasco Parks and Recreation's class Introduction to Digital Photography, on Saturday, January 5 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Land O' Lakes Recreation Complex at 3032 Collier Parkway, Land O' Lakes. The three-hour class is being offered at an introductory rate of just $25 with the option of bringing a spouse or friend for just an additional $10. Call the Rec Center at 813-929-1220 for additional information.
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A more in-depth Digital Photography Workshop class will be held on three consecutive Saturdays, January 12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The introductory price for the three sessions (9 hours of workshop training) is just $50 with a friend/companion ticket available for just $20 additional. Call the Rec Center at the above number or e-mail info@con2000.com for more information.
