Better Photographs Blog

Stunning views in North Wales

Thu, 17 May 2012 16:42:02 GMT

"Snowdonia"

The next great place to photograph has just been added to the "Places to Photograph" section by last month's Featured Photographer, Ron Sutton. Also, a selection of recommended Travel Books is now in the Library.

You might like to consider submitting your article or diary and some of your photographs, together with any tips you can pass on to fellow travellers but more of that later.

There's a brand new section on the website.

Fri, 11 May 2012 13:34:17 GMT

"Places to Photograph"

Most photographers are looking for great places to photograph and this section covers some of the best.

The articles are for your enjoyment, whether it comes from simply reading them and perhaps learning a thing or two; or by becoming inspired to visit the place yourself.

The first two places are Mont St Michel

and The Golden Triangle

You might like to consider submitting your article or diary and some of your photographs, together with any tips you can pass on to fellow travellers but more of that later.

First Impressions of the Olympus OM-D System

Mon, 07 May 2012 07:01:15 GMT

"The Olympus E-M5"

Earlier this year Olympus announced their new camera, the Olympus E-M5. It is the first of the digital versions, or some say update, to the much loved OM series.

Ghene Snowdon is a photographer based in London. Specialising in creating beautiful and contemporary photographs on location. This is her reaction to the camera.

Super Macro Photography - Up Close with Greater Depth.

Sat, 05 May 2012 13:00:05 GMT

A Super Macro Photography technique enabling you to achieve greater depth of field when using a wide aperture.

Close-Up and Beautiful

Thu, 03 May 2012 05:13:28 GMT

There are some beautiful new examples of close-up photography by Diana Battleson in the Miscellaneous Gallery of Better Photographs.

Are you frustrated by inconsistent inkjet print quality?

Tue, 01 May 2012 13:46:30 GMT

There are a few spare places at the Royal Photographic Society workshop on Better Digital Printing Purpose of the session - - To build confidence in the use of Photoshop, printer software and paper - To establish the ground rules of colour management - To establish the principles of digital darkroom techniques - To produce eye-catching digital hand-prints - To build enthusiasm for inkjet and digital c-type printing Each delegate can make a free 16x12 digital c-type print.

Ron Sutton - Featured Photographer

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:18:52 GMT

"Ron Sutton"

Featured Photographer

Our featured photographer is selected from our readers.

Ron's interest in photography was revived in 2005 when he bought his first digital camera. Since then he has had a number of his photos published, including four full page features in Digital Photographer magazine. He has also done a photoshoot on the Jurassic Coast which was used as a four page feature article.

Before he retired, Ron was contracts manager for Michelin Tyres but now he spends all the time he can looking through the viewfinder. He produces such superb photographs in the camera that he doesn't need to spend much time at the computer.

Read his story and tips at Top Photographer.

Even if you are not a Member, this is still for you ...

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:38:24 GMT

"Progressing your Photography"

There are many benefits to being a member of the Royal Photographic Society (RPS) but you can enjoy some of them even if you have not joined up yet -

The RPS runs a series of workshops across many aspects of photography and imaging. These have proved to be very successful in helping photographers, whether they be newbies or more experienced.

Recent feedback has shown that they have been very well received -

"Very good course, I feel enlightened about my camera!"
"John was a very knowledgeable guy with an easy manner to his approach, would recommend him and this course to others."
"Very knowledgeable tutor and pitched very well at our mixed-level group. Excellent."
"Very enjoyable and informative, good tutor and looking forward to some practise without rain!"
"Really good tutor, patient, very easy to follow, very knowledgeable. Great structure to the day, well planned to make the most of the time we had. I learned an awful lot!"
"A good day and very informative."

Here's an example -

One day introduction to the Digital Camera

Are you shooting only in auto button mode?

Do you want to get more creative with your camera and understand its buttons and menu functions, but too busy to commit to a less compact and convenient photography courses or read a camera manual?

For those with an SLR digital camera who wish to learn about F-stops, shutter speeds, ISO settings and composition as well as creative picture taking.

Transfer your developed knowledge into hands-on practise as you go out and about in Bath, photographing with your tutor.

Take a look at what's on offer by visiting their website.

Macro Cameras - Which camera should I buy?

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 06:11:09 GMT

If you are considering Macro Cameras, how small do you want to go?

Credit Where Credit's Due

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 09:52:23 GMT

"Know Your Rights"

With more and more photos being uploaded to Facebook and other social networks, there is increasing talk about "who owns my photographs?" and "what are my rights?"

The Royal Photographic Society’s representative on the British Copyright Council, Andy Finney recently wrote an article explaining your rights. In it he gives tips on how to protect your images and find out easily if they are being used on the internet without your consent.

Even if you are not concerned right now about how and where your photos are used (or possibly abused) do give five minutes of your time to read this article - you never know when you might wish to Know Your Rights at some time.

YOUR recommendation is NEEDED

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 10:46:04 GMT

"Photos on Canvas ..."

Photos printed on canvas, acrylic and other surfaces are becoming more and more popular. Whether it is a favourite landscape, a family wedding, or a gift for a person you like - a photo which can be hung is always very special.

As we have received reports that the company we used to recommend for canvas prints has recently lowered its standards of quality and customer service, we are seeking a new preferred supplier. We would be grateful for your input if you can recommend anyone from whom you have recently received excellent product quality, service and value for money.

Things to do during the Easter Holidays ...

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 09:15:23 GMT

Today heralds the launch of a UK-wide 3D photography competition, which will see you put your creative camera skills to the test in a bid to become the UK’s Nintendo 3DS photography champion. The competition has been launched in association with National Geographic Kids, famed for its exceptional wildlife photography, and the world’s oldest national photographic society, The Royal Photographic Society (RPS).

Keeping the postage costs down ...

Sat, 31 Mar 2012 14:21:36 GMT

"Happy Easter"

One of my passions is boats, especially photographing them.

During the summer season last year, I managed to grab some shots which I filed away on my PC in the "will probably use these but not sure when" folder.

Well now is the time - I usually send seasonal greetings cards to my friends, but having just learned of the huge postage price increase coming soon, I have decided to use the internet instead.

On-line greetings cards have been around for quite a while but I've come across something which is a bit different and is a lot of fun at the same time. Here's a quick preview; when you watch it bear in mind that I could have selected any of my images, set them to any music and shown them at any speed - faster or slower ...

The service that I used has a free trial to get a feel for what can be achieved. This trial allowed me to mix and remix the show as often as I wanted.

The video I ended up with to send to my friends at the yacht club can be sent as an attachment to an email, displayed on Facebook and the other popular social networks or even as I have done, on my own website.

Have you ever heard of TUMBLR?

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 11:14:29 GMT

Whether of not you have, would you please take 5 seconds to help me ... visit http://www.facebook.com/john.curgenven?sk=questions : click on the question and answer it. THANKS

Photo Ideas - Things to do with your Images.

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 17:38:18 GMT

Here are some photo ideas that you might like to try out with your better photographs.

Creating Surreal Effects

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 07:10:10 GMT

"Long Exposures"

I love the effect of long exposures. This image was captured at one of my favourite regions of Australia; tropical North Queensland and more specifically the Daintree rainforest. This image titled ‘Where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Coral Sea’ was captured at sunrise over approximately a 4 minute exposure.

Ricardo Da Cunha reveals more tips & tricks to help you achieve professional results.

Michael Huggan - Featured Photographer

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 11:41:33 GMT

Michael Huggan

Featured Photographer

From time to time, we feature the work of one of our readers -

Michael Huggan ARPS has been involved with Better Photographs since it was first developed. He is generally known for his award winning wildlife photographs and he was one of the first to share his knowledge and skill with us all in his masterclass - Great Wildlife Pictures.

In recent years, Michael has been turning his lenses towards one of his other passions - horses. His talent for capturing wildlife has already proven itself applicable in the equestrian world, both in the UK and overseas. Despite the obvious competition from photographers across the ocean, Michael's work has been selected for a major feature in the March issue of the US magazine - Cowboys and Indians.

More of the photographs he took during this project can be seen in the Travel Section at the Gallery of Better Photographs and on his website.

This year, Michael will be the official photographer of the Marwari horses at ‘The world comes to Windsor’ as part of the Queens Diamond Jubilee pageant.

In studying Michael's images, you would think that he was a full time professional photographer, moving in the elite circles of the chosen few. In fact, he is an engineer by profession who devotes every second he can afford to his love of photography and the adventures on which it takes him.

We are delighted to feature Michael's work and look forward to the possibility of doing the same for you. If you would like to be considered, just post one of your images on our FaceBook Page with the title - "Featured Fotos".

Converging Verticals - How to straighten them to create better photographs.

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 13:16:40 GMT

Converging verticals in a photograph can make buldings look as though they are falling backwards. It is very easy to correct this if you want to.

How could you miss it?

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 13:53:29 GMT

"FOCUS ON IMAGING"

4-7 March 2012

If it's not already in your diary, do try to visit Europe's biggest annual imaging show, covering all your needs from image capture through to output and beyond.

There are two MUST VISIT stands whilst you are there -

Firstly, the Royal Photographic Society on stand C60 - Although I have been a keen photographer for over 50 years, I didn't join the society until retiring from corporate business life. I wish it had been sooner because since becoming a member I have learned a great deal, made many friends and have enjoyed photography more than I ever imagined possible.

Discover the RPS - a new brochure has just been issued which explains how to progress your skills and get as much enjoyment from your photography as you want. Click here to download your copy or collect one when you visit stand C60.

Secondly, don't miss your chance to get your hands on one of the most discussed cameras of 2012 on stand E40 - the Olympus OM-D.

When I bought my first SLR (back in the last century) I intended purchasing one of the other well known brands because "that's what the pros use". Having made my choice, but before handing over my hard earned cash, the shop's manager asked me if I had seen the new Olympus OM1 and did I know that David Bailey, Patrick Lichfield and other pros used it?

I tried it, realised it had everything that the other brands had but that it was cheaper. I bought the OM1 together with a better 50mm lens (f1.4 instead of an f1.8) and a second lens as well - all within my budget. I've used Olympus gear ever since and it has never let me down or fallen short of my demands.

There is much excitement about the new OM-D and I am looking forward to trying out the latest technology inside a classic, superb body on stand E40.

Extreme Panorama of the Mengkabong River

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 09:15:39 GMT

"Mengkabong River"

During my last trip to Sabah in Borneo, I was travelling north east from Kota Kinabalu and was lucky enough to capture one of the spectacular sunsets to be seen from the road bridge that crosses the Mengkabong River.

Although many people are now living in urban and suburban areas, they maintain close ties with their relatives in the villages (kampung). Often, during public holidays and festivals, you can see the long exodus of people going back to their village. In Malay, it is called Balik Kampung.

It is a sentiment shared by the Kadazans and local tribes, and the Chinese people. Life in the rural village brings back many fond memories for a lot of my friends. Especially the kampung way of life, without the stress of city life, where you can hear birds singing, enjoy the sunset, where time is measured differently.

Selected as this month's free downloadable photograph is a section taken from the full 7:1 panorama of this magnificent view which can be seen in the Gallery.

Camera Focus Problem - Things to check before returning the camera.

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 15:07:38 GMT

If you have a camera focus problem, there are a couple of things to check before returning the camera.

Taking a Break from the Mountain

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 15:06:49 GMT

"Back to Blighty"

Have just returned from my South Africa trip and am wading through the emails and messages. Apologies for delay with replies.

Table Mountain from Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden

Very excited by the new Olympus OM-D. I loved my OM system in the days of film and I am looking forward to getting my hands on the latest technology inside a classic, superb body.

According to Digital Photography Review - This model is one of the most discussed cameras of 2012.

Watching You Watching Me

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 18:19:46 GMT

"Pongo pygmaeus"

February's wallpaper is a little early as I leave for a trip to South Africa on Monday.

Last year saw another milestone for Better Photographs - our 200,000th reader. Thank you to you all for your support and please keep those questions and comments coming in. It's the only way I can be sure of adding the things that you want to see on the site.

Cheerio until next month when I hope to return with some new images for the landscape gallery and material for my own paintography collection.

The Sky at Night

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:51:12 GMT

"Stargazing"

If you watched the latest series with Professor Brian Cox and Dara O Briain then you might be considering a telescope or spotting scope. Here's a review of the scope i used to photograph this image -

If you missed this fantastic series, it's on iPlayer at - http://stargazing.betterphotographs.co.uk

Time for another Competition ...

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:00:19 GMT

"Wildlife Photographer of the Year"

The search is now on for the Veolia Environnement Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2012.

As ever, this popular and prestigious competition looks for outstanding wildlife photography from both talented amateurs and established professionals, young and old. Images must faithfully represent the natural world while showing technical and artistic creativity over the 18 categories.

This year there are a few category award changes - so look out for these before you enter the competition.

Best of Both Shots ...

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 07:36:25 GMT

"Digital Photo Blending"

Digital photo blending, or exposure blending as it is also known, is a very effective way of combining two or more photos of the same scene for special effect - movement and sharpness for example.

Ricardo Da Cunha reveals more tips & tricks to help you achieve professional results.

First Things First

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 10:23:32 GMT

"Holding the Camera"

The one thing in your photography technique that you should pay extra special attention to -

I cannot remember how many times friends have shown me their photos and one or two of them have been blurred. They usually tell me that it was because the subject moved or that they did not have a very good camera.

Almost always, this was not the case. It was usually because the camera was not steady!

Using a New Camera

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:50:08 GMT

"Preparing your Thoughts"

Having chosen your new camera you are possibly about to experience one of photography's more frustrating times; having to wait before you can use it - well until it's delivered or you receive it, maybe as a Christmas gift, anyway. NOW is the best time to prepare for getting the most out of it ...

There it sits, one of the first gifts under the tree, all gift wrapped and tempting - camera, instructions and all.

Enter the internet. Most manufacturers publish the instructions for their cameras on their websites these days, so there is an opportunity to prepare for your new camera before opening the box.

Every camera I have used in the last few years has included functions that I didn't even know about.

A New Camera?

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 14:28:17 GMT

"Christmas is Coming"

Because of the popularity and reputation of Better-Photographs.com, I am thrilled to report that I have been asked to contribute a regular weekly Blog for the Great British Life website.

This is blatant trumpet blowing BUT I fully acknowledge that any success has only been achieved because of your support - either as a reader or as a contributor by sharing your articles and photographs. THANK YOU ONE AND ALL.

The Great British Life site has over 200,000 hits per week so hopefully the free help available on Better Photographs will benefit an even wider community.

Given the time of year, the first article to be published is "A New Camera". Although you are probably past the point where you need the ideas I have written, I have added the article to Better Photographs for any newcomers.

Discover how to achieve professional results.

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:21:18 GMT

"Digital Landscape Photography"

20 Tips & Tricks to Achieve Professional Results by Ricardo Da Cunha.

Learn from an outstanding photographer who believes that our existence has a purpose.

He reveals 10 beginner tips and tricks to steer your landscape photography in the right direction and another 10 advanced tips and tricks to build on the first and get you achieving professional looking results with your DSLR in no time!

"I believe our only true obligation in life is to listen to our heart and discover what it is that we’re here for. My reason for being is to help protect and conserve what little we have left by inspiring people to see and experience the scenes that I’ve witnessed. By doing so I hope to raise our awareness of the importance of conservation and to ultimately influence changes in our attitudes and behaviour." - Ricardo Da Cunha

Paintography - bringing out the painter in you.

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 12:16:05 GMT

"Overflow"

December's Free Downloadable Photograph is taken in Kennall Vale - Tucked away in a wooded valley near the village of Ponsanooth, the old Gunpowder Works were in operation from the 1800s until the early 20th Century, when they were forced to close due to the invention of dynamite.

Today, the remains stand in a nature reserve maintained by The Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

Original Photo Capture - RAW f/16.0 6.4 sec ISO 100 (Matrix Metering)

Paintographic Image produced using Digital Brush Techniques

How To Dance With A Panda

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:54:31 GMT

"The Google Waltz"

This post contains very important information if you have, or are considering a website.

If not, help any of your friends who do by forwarding this to them.

Google have a tool known as Panda which, like it or not, is of major significance when it comes to determining the rankings of your website and therefore your "traffic".

The latest version of Panda is Panda 2.5.2 which was implemented last month. It has changes in its algorithm which have had a major impact on website rankings - a survey suggests that 66% of sites are already affected very significantly.

For some, this was good news in that their rankings improved; others were not so fortunate!

All search engines have such algorithms and it is therefore very difficult to keep up to date with them and to maintain our websites so as to "appeal" to them and be rewarded with high rankings. "Above the fold" on the first page of Google is, of course, the holy grail we seek.

Better-Photographs.com has been ranked number 1 (occasionally slipping to number 2) for many of its pages for over 3 years and has attracted 200,000+ readers this year. It has done so without requiring me to be an internet wizard (perish the thought) and keep pace with the search engines' tunes and tempos.

The "About this Site" page explains how this success was achieved but the bottom line is that I use a service which provides all that is needed to own a website that works - SBI!.

The folk at SBI! keep pace with the Panda (and all the other Algorithmic Animals) and ensure that my websites' success is maintained.

Best wishes,

John Curgenven
Editor

The Colour Wheel

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 11:58:38 GMT

"An Indispensable Therapy"

Colour has a fundamental psychological effect on us. Imagine how depressing it would to live in a world drained of colour. Colour inspires and motivates, and even helps us make sense of the world (red for stop, green for go, yellow and black for danger).

As photographers, we need to be sensitive to colour, and understand how we can use it - and sometimes manipulate it - to make great images.

If photography is about recording and celebrating the world around us, colour is a crucial part of that world.

Holding the Camera - Fundamental to Better Photographs

Sun, 06 Nov 2011 17:40:05 GMT

Holding the Camera - Getting this right is one of the basics for your better photographs.

Dropbox - File sharing made easy ...

Sat, 05 Nov 2011 09:12:28 GMT

Dropbox is a free service that lets you bring all your photos, docs, and videos anywhere. This means that any file you save to your Dropbox will automatically save to all your computers, phones and even the Dropbox website. Dropbox also makes it super easy to share with others, whether you're a student or professional, parent or grandparent. Even if you accidentally spill a latte on your laptop, have no fear! You can relax knowing that Dropbox always has you covered, and none of your stuff will ever be lost.

More Superb Photographs

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:52:24 GMT

Timothy Smith

Timothy creates Fine Art Landscape images using the subtleties of natural light. His standard for work is that each picture must be artistically and technically excellent.

He adheres to the principle that the image be created in camera and he works hard to achieve this essential objective.

"Ultimately I hope to draw the viewer in to an image and make them feel as if they were there at the time of capture."

Timothy exhibits from time-to-time but his main outlet is from a number of quality Art & Craft Fairs in Essex and adjoining counties.

His locally based workshops have been chosen by a number of photographers keen to improve their landscape skills.

Timothy's website - www.timothysmithphotography.co.uk

Ghoulies and Ghosties ...

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 07:29:47 GMT

Ghosts in the Night

Something a little different for this month's Free Downloadable Photograph showing the spirit of the Clipper 11-12 Round the World Race which will be in Australasian waters during November.

This month's "Book of the Month" by Tony Worobiec is all about Night and Low-Light photography.

Digital Photography Workflow

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 05:43:38 GMT

Workflow to avoid Overflow

A disciplined photography workflow is essential if you want to spend more time behind the camera than in front of the computer.

Here's a summary of mine which has been refined during my 50 years of photography, transitioning from film to digital during the last 10 years (most of my film equipment is now in a museum). My career included work with process and project management systems and relational databases. This experience has been useful in evolving a photography workflow method which works well for me.

I hope that this provides at least a foundation for you to adapt to the way in which you prefer to work.

Did you forget to turn IS on? ...

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 10:14:25 GMT

Blurred Photos

With this around the corner you might ask "How good is my camera's Image Stabilization?" ...

This may take a while to load as demand to view it is very high.

Inspiration from David Cowling

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 17:55:24 GMT

Gallery of Better Photographs

Superb new landscape photographs by David Cowling to inspire you in the gallery.

Photography News.

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 05:42:31 GMT

Global-Source Photography News from Bing & Google.

Mastering Underwater Photography - The combination of two great pastimes.

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 07:55:02 GMT

There are millions of keen divers in the world but not many have mastered Underwater Photography.

Digital Photography Tips - some of the best can be found here.

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 06:59:32 GMT

Some of the best Digital Photography Tips can be found in these websites and books.

Something different this week ... a free Photoshop download

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 16:41:01 GMT

Alternative Styles

Last weekend I visited friends in Yorkshire where I grabbed a couple of shots of the Rochester Canal at Hebden Bridge. I was happy with the results straight out of the camera but thought it would be fun to try applying some different styles for printing.

This one is processed in Photoshop to simulate an aged photograph.

There are six styles in all and they can be seen at - http://alternative-styles.photos-of-boats.com

If you fancy trying out these styles on your photos, I have produced a free Photoshop Action which automates the whole process and will save the images in the root directory of your Hard Disk (c:\ on a PC ; HD: on an iMac).

The actions can be downloaded here -

Download the PC action by clicking here
Download the iMac action by clicking here
Open Photoshop and load the action by selecting ‘load actions’ from the drop down menu in the top right of the actions palette. If you can’t see the actions palette select it first in the ‘Window’ menu.

... and if you can spare the time - please let me know which style you prefer by answering the question on our Facebook Page

Thanks for your help.

More Autumn Colour

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 12:30:16 GMT

Don't forget the Fungi ...

Before they fall ...

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 09:10:18 GMT

Autumn Colours

It's time to prepare for Nature's Gift ...

Make sure you get some better photographs this year - take a look at our Photography Tutorial and learn how to improve your shots.

... and if you are in the southern hemisphere then here's an alternative for you ...

Early preparation for next season's weddings ...

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 11:32:52 GMT

Engagement Photography

Are you giving the happy couple all that they deserve?

This beautiful guide to engagement photography will show aspiring and professional wedding photographers how to boost their current income by offering higher-quality engagement sessions (or by adding them for the first time).

Written by award-winning photographer Elizabeth Etienne, this modern guide to engagement photography offers portrait and wedding photographers a step-by-step approach to shooting in-demand engagement sessions and maximising an often-untapped revenue stream.

Available from amazon.co.uk and amazon.com

How appealing is your website? ...

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 11:59:27 GMT

Are videos helping you?

Including a video show of your photographs on your website not only makes your site and/or blog stand out from the crowd but it also is a great way to drive traffic to your site since it increases your chances of appearing higher up in search results.

Are you stuck when it comes to creating an effective, short video for your website?

Here's an example of how a brief video can enhance your home page - www.photos-of-boats.com.

Note - No video clips were needed to create this, although they could have been used if desired.

Find out more about the three simple steps to making an effective video for your site at - http://animoto.com/?ref=jbgzxsoq

BBC Wildlife Photography Tips

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 13:07:48 GMT

Easy to use Wildlife Photography Tips from BBC Wildlife Photographers.

Colour Calibration - When is white WHITE?

Sat, 20 Aug 2011 07:31:38 GMT

When it comes to colour calibration can we ever achieve a perfect world?