News You Can Use

Internet resources can help many budding 'flashers'

University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Susan Hughes
Aug. 14, 2006

STARKVILLE, Miss.-Whether capturing family gatherings or beautiful sunsets, photographs can preserve memorable moments, tell stories and, sometimes, produce artwork.

With just a few tips and practice, even amateur photographers can create beautiful images without expensive equipment, professional training or a paparazzo's trigger finger.

When choosing a camera, budding photographers first must decide between digital and film models, says Mississippi State University photographer Megan Bean. "I really think the time has come where I wouldn't recommend buying a film camera unless you are seeking to become a fine-art photographer," she adds.

Bean says digitals offer the freedom of taking as many photographs as a memory card will hold, then deleting any undesirable images at will. A serious digital photographer must be prepared, however, to purchase software for manipulating and fine-tuning the images and devote the required time with a computer after the shoot.

"I would recommend some kind of photo management software," Bean says. "Many cameras come with it, so I would give that a try first."

To find the camera and software that best fits the individual's needs, Bean recommends visiting www.cnet.com. The Web site offers comparisons and customer reviews to help consumers decide among the hundreds of digital models now available.

After choosing the right camera, the next three steps are: practice, practice, practice.

Bean also points to the many Web sites now available for amateurs to post their images and receive positive critiques. For one, she recommends http://photo.net.