Fine-Tune Your Photography: Accessories for Perfect Pictures
Digital SLR cameras have transformed amateur photography. Built-in sensors take the guesswork out of proper exposures, auto-focus practically ensures sharp shots, and computerized settings allow even the amateur to experiment with artistic effects.
In the world of dSLR cameras, accessories are like the cherry-on-top. The right piece can transform a good picture to a breathtaking picture, a lovely shot to a professional-quality portrait. Here are some of our favourite add-ons.
Lens hoods
A lens hood is inexpensive and practical, protecting your lens while reducing glare and ghosting. While they do add a little bulk, lens hoods are a simple way to produce sharper images.
Lens filters
Easy to use, affordable and practical: filters are exceptional accessories that transform photos while protecting your lens.
Lens filters change the quality of light that reaches your camera. Some block out a portion of all light, some block out certain frequencies, changing the colour composition of the image. Some polarize the light, blocking out waves that are moving in certain directions.
Reflectors
A staple piece of equipment for professional photographers, reflectors are lightweight and simple to use. Because light is directional, your subject is often unevenly lit—half the face is light, the other half in shadow, for example. This is especially the case with strong light sources like a flash or direct sunlight. The strong contrasts can be harsh, particularly for portraits.
Reflectors are used to fill in these shadows by bouncing light rays to the shadowed area. Place the reflector so it is at equal angles to the light source and the subject. Experiment with these angles to reduce contrast and create a softer, more evenly lit shot.
External flashes
External flashes are larger and more powerful than built-in flashes. Easy to use, they fit right onto your camera’s hot shoe. They also have their own power source, which allows for a larger, softer cone of light and faster recharge time between photos. Many external flashes come with an articulated head, allowing you the option of bouncing light off the ceiling, creating more natural highlights and shadows.
Tripods
No matter how carefully you hold your camera, no matter how still your hands, many low light or action shots are impossible to take without a tripod. A tripod opens up a world of artistic possibilities, simply by stabilizing the camera. In low light situations, the perfectly still camera can take crisp photos at very slow shutter speeds. A telephoto lens, used to magnify the subject, also magnifies hand shake. A tripod allows for telephoto shots that are clear and blur-free.
Tripods come in varying sizes and weights, from compact and versatile “gorillapods” to full size tripods that are perfect for portrait or sports photography. Look for tripods with a quick release, so you can switch to handheld quickly and effortlessly.
Pop Up Shade
Adhering directly to your camera, the pop up shade makes it possible to see your screen, even in the brightest conditions. Optical clear glass protects your screen, and if you wish to remove the shade, the adhesive leaves no residue. Bring your camera to the London Drugs Camera Department so we can match the colour and design to your specific model.
To learn about the dSLR accessories that best suit your photographic needs, drop by the London Drugs Camera Department or visit us at londondrugs.com
