I’m very excited about having another venue to share information and ideas about photography with you.
On this blog I’ll talk about various tips and tricks you can use to take better pictures and have fun doing it.
Watch the shows and feel free to ask questions and share your comments. I’ll check in to answer questions and interact.
Tags: digital photo expert, DIY Network, erin manning, The Whole Picture
Hey,
I love your show!
I just wish it was on later during the day, not at 8 am.
lol.
Anyways, your tips are easy to use.
also, you’ve got me hooked on photography now.
i just resently got an olympus sp-500 uz. it’s a pretty good “beginner” camera I think. Well, that’s about it. Thanks, mia
Hi Mia,
Congrats on being the very first person to comment on this site! Thanks! I’m happy to hear that you are now hooked on photography. It’s a very gratifying, lifelong pursuit. Keep watching and have fun taking pictures.
Erin
I’ve learned so much about digital photography from you and love your teaching style!. I’ve learned how to use the macro setting on my camera … and it really comes in handy when I’m holding my 1 yr old grandson. He has the most gorgeous light blue eyes and sweet smile!
Hi Barbara,
Yeah! Another macro believer. Using the macro mode on your camera can be a lot of fun, it’s easy to do and it opens up a whole new world of possibilities… like capturing your grandson’s gorgeous light blue eyes and sweet smile for everyone else to see. Explore other things too, like plants, bugs, anything else that would ordinarily seem too small to take pictures of – and experiment.
Erin
I love your show! Wish more people would use this blog though! Our group does a lot of digital photograohy exchange and we do talk about Science, Mathematics, Psychology Biology, Health Medicine, Chemistry, Computing, Earth Sciences, Physics, Astronomy, Engineering, etc. Photography is our passion, we use it for scrapbooking and just to exchange among each other. I just wanted to congratulate you!
Hi Luisa,
We just started this blog this last week and have already had quite a few people comment, which is fantastic. Thanks for your message and keep contributing, I’m sure others would like to read about any info you have to share about images used for scrapbooking.
Erin
Hello Erin,
I enjoy watching your show and have learned a great deal. Watching your show has sparked a new intrest getting back into photography. I currently own a Nikon F100 35mm and have the following lenses:
Nikon Af Nikkor 24-120mm 1:3.5-5.6D.
Nikon AF VR-Nikkor 80-400mm telephoto.
I have done some research and the Nikon D200 seams like a good choice which will allow me to use the lenses I currently own. I have a couple of questions for you.
1.) What software would you recomend I use and why? I downloaded Nikon Capture NX but it seams a bit confusing.
2.)Are there any manditory accessories needed beside the camera,lenses,and memory card?
3.)Is it possible to learn the software on your own using its tutorial or do you recommend attending a class?
Hi Paul,
Thanks for the comment, I’m happy to hear that you’re enjoying the show! In regards to your questions:
1. I have personally found it very simple to use Adobe Photoshop Elements 4.0 for viewing, editing and retouching my images. I used this new version on the show and it has a new, improved super simple interface for the beginner and it’s pretty robust, for more advanced users. check out the free trial downloads on the Adobe site.
2. After purchasing a camera, lenses and a memory card, be sure to get an extra battery, a good carrying/travel case, a tripod, something to use as a reflector, either a professional one or use your car dashboard protector/reflector, perhaps an extra memory/media card (same thing) and a lens cleaning cloth. Those are the basics, of course, go to any online or retail camera store and you will see all sorts of extra goodies.
3. Software can be confusing for most people unless you have a little background in the basics. It depends on where you are at on the computer proficiency continuum. I think it’s a good idea to start with a hands-on class if you can, and have a good reference book handy. You can also try an online or DVD tutorial. I like the Total Training series DVD myself, and network with anyone else who is also into image editing to share tips and tricks in person. Hope that helps.
Erin
I saw the end of your show and now I well look for it so I can see the whole show.
Hi Robert,
Good! Keep watching, I’m going to be covering a lot of ground this season. The Whole Picture airs on the DIY Network and HGTV-HD
Erin
I have seen your show. Would love to see it on later in the Afternoon or evening. Will they be putting it on then soon?
I do a lot of Wedding Photography. Do you or will you have a show on that soon?
Hi Ray,
Thank you. I’m not sure what other times the show is going to air on the DIY Network right now, other than 8:00am EST however, it is now airing on HGTV-HD MANY times a day. We have not done a show on wedding photograpy yet, but that is a great idea. I’ll keep you posted.
Erin
Please help me by telling me which camera to buy. I want a big display, zoom, ability to poster size, ease in downloading to my xp computer. I am stymied and can’t get on with it until I am just told what to purchase. I am in the $300.00 range.
Jay
Hi Jay,
I know, this can be a confusing, overwhelming topic – which camera to choose? There are so many! I’m posting a tutorial on that very topic on this blog. Meanwhile, it depends on what size camera you want to carry around. That may alter some of your choices. For example, if you want a very small point and shoot, most only have 3x optical zoom, which is equivilant to a classic 35-105mm lens and is good for photographing people, but not for zooming in close from a distance. For that you’d need a larger camera and 10x or 12x optical zoom. You’ll also need atleast a 6 MP camera or higher if you want to blow up quality pictures to poster size. There are some great camera review sites out there right now and one of the best sites I’ve found to compare cameras in a very organized and simple fashion is CNET.com: Link
I have been using the Fuji Finepix F30, 6.3 MP . It has a large screen, gives me great pictures, witha 3x optical zoom and picture stabilization (which means you can shoot in low-light and still have pretty sharp pictures). I also am liking the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-H2 that has a 12x optical zoom (36-432mm) and a big LCD monitor. Hope that helps!
Erin
Hi there.
Just a note to say that I saw your shows earlier this spring, and immediately became a fan. I have been a camera bug for a long time and have seen the birth of single lense 35mm, have a Rolleiflex, several digital cameras plus 3 video cameras. I do believe that I am done purchasing any more, unless I find something better. I did especially like your beginning video series and would like to see more of editing, etc. Thanx a lot for the opportunity to blog you. Jim
Hi Jim,
Thank you, I’m happy to hear that you’re enjoying the show. Wow, sounds like you have quite a few cameras – gives you lots of opportunity to be creative, take pictures, record video and document. Keep watching the new season of shows, there are plenty of tips and tricks on editing your images.
Here’s to more blogging!
Erin
Thanks for a great show! I love the photo editing tips at the end also.
Hi Cindy,
You’re welcome, I enjoy doing the show. It’s very gratifying to know that people are inspired and want to learn more about photography. The computer is another great tool for enhancing your photos – so many possibilities! Glad you’re watching.
Erin
I’ve seen nor heard of your show, but as I was checking out my email from DIY, I saw your info.
What time does it air on the east coast?
I have an old reliable Canon AE1 as well as a digital camera…and take loads of photos.
Always willing to learn more about photography.
Hi Linda,
Thanks for tuning in, the show airs at 8:00am EST on Wednesdays on the DIY Network and all different times on HGTV-HD. Here’s a link to the show description on DIY:
Here’s a link to more information about The Whole Picture!
Keep taking pictures, watch the show and practice!
Erin
Hi Erin,
Any suggestions on how to copy a 35mm slide to a digital picture using my sony camera?
Hi Rob,
There are three ways I know of:
1. Use a projector. Project your slide image onto a white surface, put your camera on a tripod and take the picture of the projected image.
2. Attach a slide copier to your camera. It’s like taking real time pictures except that you attach a slide copier to the digital camera and insert your slide. These attachments are getting more difficult to find for various digital point and shoot cameras, best place to check out availability is your camera manufacturer’s website.
3. Use a scanner. If you plan on copying more than a few of them and want the flexibility and higher quality, I would recommend buying a scannner. They are relatively inexpensive now compared to just a few years ago. I have had great luck with Epson. Make sure the model you purchase has a slide and negative adapter.
Good luck! Let me know what happens.
Erin
I wish I could get your program, I just recently found you on the website, but DIY isn’t offered in my cable package. Onn has a few and HGTV but not yours. Too bad, I ‘m just getting ready to get a digital camera and would love to see your program.
Hi Sue,
I wish you could get the program too. The Whole Picture airs on the DIY Network and HGTV-HD. Meanwhile, if you don’t get the DIY network, let your cable operator know -
I want my DIY! Here’s an explanation from the DIY website, and a link:
How can I get DIY in my area?
Your local cable or satellite provider determines which networks are
aired. To assist you in having DIY added to your programming lineup,
we have created an easy way for you to submit your request to your
cable or satellite company. Just fill in your information and we’ll
send your request to your local cable or satellite provider to have
DIY added to your programming lineup. It’s that easy! The more people
that request the network, the better your chances are to have it
included in your programming lineup. So tell your friends and family!
We hope you are able to enjoy DIY in the very near future.
link
Erin
Unfortunately, my cable provider does NOT provide DIY…so I’m bummed I cannot see your show!
I will check back here to keep up with your blog, though.
Hi Q,
Thanks! Read the message above that I wrote to Sue. Hopefully that will help.
Erin
Clearly, I will have to get TIVO in order to watch your show. I am always eager for photographing tips.
Hi Rick,
Yes! Tivo the show
Keep watching, there are lots of tips this season.
Erin
I Love your program. I record it with my DVR and watch each program several times. My photos are beginning to look a lot better. I recently took some very important pictures of my oldest daughter, getting her BS in Nursing. I really do think that the photos came out better than they have in the past.
Hi Linda,
Great! I’m always happy to hear about your photography achievments, especially when they relate to watching my show :-> Good idea about recording the show and watching multiple times, it helps to see and hear things a few times while you’re learning to really pick up the skill. What technique did you use when you photographed your daughter?
Erin
Your show has taught me SO much about taking great pictures. The one piece of info I use the most is my macro. How cool! Look forward to more shows! Thanks so much.
Hi Deb,
Thank you, that’s fantastic! Yes, I agree, once you discover the macro mode on your camera, it opens up a whole new world of photo possibilities. Keep watching this new season, I have lots of other tips to share.
Erin
I just bought a Sony 8.1 mp camera. It’s a great camera. My problem is this. I get nervous when I come up a great scene, for instance, on our recent trip to Alaska, and I goof up pictures unbelievably. I know better, but I will start watching the show to see if I can handle these situations better.
Hi Pat,
As the old joke goes “How do you get to Carnegie Hall?” Practice,
practice, practice, or as I say on my show “The more pictures you take
the better you get”. My advice to you would be to learn one new
thing everyday about your camera or photography. Those daily lessons
will add up faster than you think and you’ll feel more comfortable with your camera – which is the key! And of course, keep tuning in to The Whole Picture
Erin
Hi!
I love your show and your teaching tips. Everything is taught on such a learnable level. Wish the show was on during the evening hours. Thanks! Kim
Hi Kim,
Thanks for the message! I’m happy to hear that you’re enjoying the show. Yes, I agree, we air rather early in the morning but I highly recommend taping or recording the show anyway, in case you need to review certain points. The Whole Picture airs on the DIY Network at 8:00am EST and MANY times a day on HGTV-HD. Stay tuned.
Erin
Hi Erin, love your show very much. Your presentation style and information provided equate to having a photography professor right in your living room. Hope you stay with the show for a long time to come. We see you weekly but if we miss a show we have the DVR back up, thank god for that. The final segment of the show, when you do your computer magic is also great. Would it be possible to do a full program on the computer, eg. changing backrounds and such. Take care, look forward to seeing you.
Thanks, Joe
Hi Joe,
Thanks for the message, I’m happy to hear that you’re enjoying and recording, the show! Good idea about doing a show that concentrates more on the computer – learning how to change out backgrounds and enhance your images is a lot of fun and there are so many possibilities….. I’ll make a note
Erin
I began watching The Whole Picture about a year ago but then it was gone and now I see it every Wednsday Morning @ 7:00AM. I love it! I have a Nikon 990 3.1MP and also a Sony DSC-1 5.1. My problem is that the icons are so small and I have trouble seeing them. Do you have any suggestions for me being more proficient on my cameras? I am also learning PS Elements 4.0 which I’m glad you use.
I am so glad and I hope you stay on the air.
PS. I also saw you having Bare
Essentuals put on on QVC or a similar shopping network(your complexion is flawless!) I also saw you in a commercial.
I am a fan! Keep up on the Digital Photography.
THANKS JEAN P
Hi Jean,
Thanks for the message, glad to hear that you are watching and enjoying the show! Yes, sometimes the icons on certain cameras are rather small. Whether you really need them or not, get a pair of drugstore reading glasses with high magnification. They come in pretty handy when icons or buttons are too small to see.
Keep practicing using your cameras, concentrating on one at a time might make it easier. Pull out that owners manual and go through your mode dial settings, your menu, and your function button. Know how to work your flash button and practice, even in the dark. Typically the icon denoting the flash mode will pop up on the LCD screen. The more pictures you take, the easier it will be to work your camera. Shoot a LOT of photos, you can always delete what you don’t like. And keep watching The Whole Picture! Hope that helps.
Erin
On my email from DYI I noticed your show but it was after 8am when I got on my computer. I am looking forward to tomorrow so I can watch your show. I love photography, I have a Nikon N50 and a Nikon D70. I am really happy your on DYI now.
From my DIY email I found out about you today, too late for todays show. I will watch you tomorrow. I have a Nikon N50 & Nikon D70 and I love photography. Am looking forward to tomorrow.
Hi Jeannie,
Thank you for the messages, I’m happy to hear that you’re watching the show!
Erin
I really would like to know which software you use on your computer at your studio. It does so much more than most. Also which printer you recommend. Thanks, Gale
Hi Gale,
I use Photoshop Elements 4.0 on The Whole Picture, it’s very easy to use, quite robust with features and reasonably priced. Here’s a link to a free 30 day trial:
Download a
free trial
There are a lot of printers out there to choose from and it all boils down to – what do you want to do with it? I have one printer that I use to print all my photographs (Epson Photo 2200) and another I use (Epson C88) for word documents, letters, etc. so as not to waste the archival ink on mundane tasks. Here’s a link to a web page that gives great info on what all of their printers do, so you can find the one right for you.
<a href=” Printer”>http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/ProductCategory.jsp?oid=-8165&ref=r03028qgpx“>Printer info
Erin
I love your show, I tape them because they come on at 7 a.m. in my area, I would love to see a show on how to take pictures of myself, I always take pictures of other people and none of me, I do have a remote on my camera and tripod but have a hard time setting it up for myself to be in the picture, I live alone so it is rather hard to do.
Thank you for any help you can offer me.
Louise in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Hi Louise,
Thanks for watching, glad you like the show! Taking a good self portrait is very important. We all need a good picture of ourselves, for family, business, all sorts of reasons. It’s helpful to know how to look good in pictures that other people take of you (which is why I only like to eat at restaurants with white tablecloths, the white reflection fills in the shadows and makes you look better!) BUT also controlling your camera to take a great self portrait and at minimum, include yourself in the group shot. Get to know the self-timer on your camera and how to set it to about 10 seconds so you have time to get in front of the lens. Place a mirror in back on the camera so you can see how you look, your expression, before the shutter goes off. Try some with a flash, some without, to see which one looks better. Get a small tripod to set your camera on, I like the Joby “Gorillapod” <a href=” mini”>http://www.joby.com“>mini tripod, it’s very light, portable and flexible. Take lots of pictures, the beauty of digital is, you just delete whatever you don’t like, and keep the good ones. This is a good topic for a tutorial blog entry, stay tuned for more info on this one.
Erin
i love your show, i have been interested in taking photos….well for a long time and have finally progressed to a digital camera, but i know that is just half of the progress. what is the computer program that you use of the show?
Hi Barbara,
Thank you! I use Photoshop Elements 4.0 on The Whole Picture, it’s very easy to use, quite robust with features and reasonably priced. Here’s a link to a free 30 day trial:
Download a
free trial
Erin
Hi Erin!
I love your show. I have always wanted to get into phtography and my 3 kids provide me with some of the best photos I could ask for, except…I have a digital camera that is slow on the capture….in other words by the time it takes the pic – the kids are already on the go. My 35mm never had that problem obviously and so I am having a hard time really LOVING my digital. Other than that, I love using Adobe to create with digital photos so I’m glad that is one of the tools you exhibit on the show!
Here’s to more shows!
Christine
Hi Christine,
Thank you – so happy to hear that you like the show. Yes, shutter lag (the time between when you press the shutter button and when the actual picture is recorded) has been a big problem for digital camera users, partially because of older technology and partially because most people aren’t aware of the 2-step process of pressing the shutter button. Good news, digital cameras are becoming better, faster and relatively less expensive. Without getting too technical, typically, the more expensive your camera, the faster you can snap an image but you can also speed up the process with this little tip:
Point your camera at your subject, hold your shutter button down halfway to lock in the exposure and focus, frame things up in your LCD viewfinder (keeping your finger on the shutter button) then when the photo moment occurs, press the shutter down the rest of the way. This will take considerably less time to record an image (once you are ready) than just pressing the shutter button down in one fell swoop. If your subject is moving, try setting your mode dial to “action” or “sports” mode then following the action with your camera. Keep practicing and soon you will be capturing your kids in your digital images – and your pictures will look great!
Erin
Hi Erin,
Love your show and have picked up some very useful information. I’ve owned about 4 digital cameras over the years and am about to buy a new one. Currently using an Olympus C-60. I took a digital camera class at a local college and the first thing I learned was to READ the INSTRUCTIONS that came with the camera and then PRACTICE using ALL SETTINGS to get familiar with the camera. This was excellent advice. Also I’m a big MacIntosh computer fan and love to see them on your show. I use Photoshop CS, but it’s a very expensive program and has taken me years to learn (I would consider myself to be an advanced user at this point). Would you recommend switching to Photoshop Elements 4.0, and what features would I be losing (or gaining) by switching? I’m doing some web design using photoshop, but mostly I use this program for enhancing personal photos, digital scrapbooking, and historical (family & friends) photo restoration. Thanks again for the great shows!
Margo
Hi Margo,
Thanks for the message, glad you are enjoying the show! It sounds like you already know quite a bit about image editing if you are using Photoshop CS, which is the professional version versus Photoshop Elements 4.0 which is considered more “consumer.” I have to say that PSE 4.0 is pretty cool though and has a lot of user-friendly features. You could give PS Elements a try if you want, here’s a link to a free download:
free trial
Have fun taking pictures!
Erin
I’ve never blogged anyone? I hope that is politically correct. I’m into photographs and cameras too, but my flash broke a year ago and I have not been able to afford the new one that is designed for the digital SLR and the SLR. I love my Nikon 80, have all the lens. I have grieved the loss of that camera. It has forced me into using my Nikon Coolpix 5000. It’s too hard for me. I’m not mathmatically inclined nor does my gray matter support learning all of what I need to do what I like to do!!!! I’m waiting for a big settlement from an accident to come in and I’m heading for the camera co-op to purchase a Nikon Digital SLR, oh and the flash. I wasn’t sure which one until someone mentioned the 100. Until I have time to take classes I use professional film, have a great camera and set it on auto. I don’t know how to use the photoshop programs, I get so frustrated.
I didn’t know about “The Whole Picture” until I received the newsletter today. I will begin taping it. Erin, where are you and I’ll come there for a tutorial…LOL. I pray nightly for that creative eye or vision that captures the perfect shot using available light, etc., but it hasn’t happened. Help!!!!!
I’m so excited to meet you Erin, must stop typing as my L hand is in cast b/c of surgery last week and it is throbbing. I just had to say hello to all!
Marilyn
Is there any way you can convince the producers to sell your series on DVDs? For those of us who work and it is difficult to get to see your program and for those who don’t get it on their cable network, it would really be a help.
Hi Victoria,
I can always ask! Many people have requested the same thing. Thanks for your message.
Erin
hey Erin! well i took some awesome shots of a sunset from Maui, using some of the tips you shared. they turned out great!
mahalo
larry
Erin,
I think your show is great. I even have my tivo set to record it. Can you devote a large part of a show to “layers”? I just don’t get how to do them. Also, I use Adobe Photoshop Elements 2.0, when I try to render a pic to 3D, not much seems to happen. Am I doing something wrong??
I just love your show and you have helped me greatly with my Digital Rebel XT. I’m a senior citizen and work with a group of seniors in a photo round table discussion. We all want to learn how to take better pictures. Can you give us any advice for our “round” table discussion? We all have different cameras so it’s hard to stay with that topic.
Great, I found your show on HGTV and have the schedule printed out. DIY needs to run it a few more times too! Linda
Erin, like many others I love your show. Just this week I picked up a DVR from my cable company so I would never miss your show. It is filled with so much info.
I have been into photography since I received my first camera at age 7… now 35. I have had plenty of 35mm cameras and now I am on my second digital camera which is a Kodak v610. I’ve already taken some great photos of our beautiful 11 month old girl. Needless to say I was excited to see a similar one featured on your show today.
The DVD collection of your previous shows would be a great benefit and well reviewed. I use Adobe photoshop 3.0 so I can relate to your software segments. Thank you for your knowledge and know how. What would it take for a autographed photo? Thanks again and I’m looking forward to seeing your next show.
Hi Erin,
This is Mark from Adobe checking in. It’s great to read your blog and see how you have opened up the world of digital photography to so many, and how it’s impacted people’s lives. I’m going to tivo.com right after this post to add your show to my queue!
Thanks for the Photoshop Elements mentions, too. While I wish I knew my camera well enough to always get the right exposure when I snap the shot to begin with, it’s a relief to have a way to pull out the hidden details in the shadows, and rescue those poorly lit photos, which I seem to be an expert at taking.
Keep up the great work, Erin!
-Mark
Hi Mark,
I’m happy to hear that you’re watching the show. Yes, I agree, Photoshop Elements is a great way to rescue poorly lit photos and solve other problems too – like under eye bags and blemishes :-O Mostly, I enjoy being creative and I’ve found that image editing programs open the door to many possibilites.
Many of my viewers are beginning to get the hang of working with their images on the computer – thanks to the free trial downloads!
Erin
Erin,
I checked out the “Be on DIY” site and they don’t seem to have a link for your show. I wanted to pitch a topic for you, one that I desperately need help on.
My husband has his own real estate company, and it seems the market everywhere is dead for selling houses. I wanted to use my photography skills to help make our listings stand out. Like most people when we look to buy a new home I skip over the listing without pictures. And even the ones with pictures have dark, awkward and boring photos. I am a natural light photographer and always take my subjects to the light. Unfortunately taking pictures of a room is completely different.
How can I set my self up for the best angle, make the room look big and light up those dark hallways?
Wendalyn
Hi Wendalyn,
Great idea and good questions. I agree it’s a good idea to visually illustrate what you are trying to communicate or sell, in this instance, your real estate listings! There are two important things to consider, coverage and lighting.
1. Coverage: Use a wide-angle lens. Most point and shoot cameras have a lens with a 3x optical zoom, which is equivalent to a classic 35-105mm zoom lens. If you are shooting at the widest angle your lens will allow, you still may not be able to capture enough of the room in your shot. A 28mm lens (or wider) will give you ample coverage and visually open up the room. You have a few options:
A: Shoot with a point and shoot digital camera with a wider focal length range, like the Panasonic Lumix FX01 and soon-to-be-released Lumix LX2.
Panasonic Lumix FX01
Panasonic Lumix LS2
B: If you plan on getting a little more serious, invest in a digital SLR camera that will allow you to change the lenses. Use a wide-angle lens similar to this one:
<a href=” “>http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=303166&is=REG&addedTroughType=search=“>
Wide-angle lens
C: Make a panoramic shot of your interior. Shoot with your current digital point and shoot camera and take a series of shots of the room, overlapping each shot a minimum of 20%. Use a tripod to steady the camera, avoid vertical tilt and ensure precise alignment. Stitch together your images in an image-editing program, like Photoshop Elements 4.0
2. Lighting: Interiors are typically darker than the outdoors so you need to either light the room artificially and/or utilize the natural light and manipulate it to light the darker areas of the room. I also suggest using a tripod to keep the camera steady, and your images sharp in low-light situations.
A: Attach your camera to the tripod, compose your shot, turn off your flash, set the self timer for 2 seconds (consult your manual if you aren’t sure where your self timer setting is) take the shot. Check your exposure in the LCD. While reviewing the images, zoom into the image to make sure things are in focus. Turning off the flash will give your interior a more natural look and you’ll be able to see where you need to add more light. Using your self-timer will avoid any camera shake from your finger when the shutter is released.
B: Keep in mind that all light has it’s own color temperature. Outside during mid-day has a blue tint, indoor lights are typically incandescent which cast a golden tint to your images and florescent lights will give you a nice ghastly green tint. This is where white balance comes into play. If you shoot in the automatic mode, your camera will try to adjust to the main light source and take its best guess on the setting. Sometimes this works, sometimes not. You can also set it yourself. Check your menu options and set the white balance you desire. Take a lot of pictures and experiment, whatever you don’t like, just delete!
C: If you are lighting indoors with artificial light, make it easy on yourself and try to use similar light sources (ex: all incandescent or all halogen) this will make it easier for your camera to adjust to the color temperature. Here’s a link to some great lights I found for cheap! You can use these to light up those really dark areas or bounce the light off of a big white wall. They can get hot however, so be careful.
<a href=” “>http://centralonlinesales.com/show_Product.asp?ID=1624“>
1,000 watts of light for $27
D: If you are using natural light only, you can reflect light into dark corners with a big piece of white foam core, a car reflector or you can purchase a professional reflector from a photo store.
Hope that helps! Good luck and let me know what happens. You could post a link here with your pics if you upload them to an online photo site.
Erin
Hi:
I am so glad to see your response. Lately my grou started doing electronic scrapbooking and it is really fun. This gives us a chance to exchange our art online. The photograpy we have from our kids was what inpired us to start doing this since some of us are now very far and is tough to get together on weekends. I had a question regarding light. Which is the best light for pictures when you are taking pictures outdoors? (morning, noon, afternoon or mid afternoon)
Hi Erin:
I love your show. Right now I’m trying to composite photos. I got as far as moving an image onto another, but I can’t seem to resize it. Clicking on the image and on Shift doesn’t do anything. I’m using Photoshop CS. Can you help?
Hi Loris,
Thanks for the message, glad you like the show! When resizing an image in Photoshop CS, look in the layers palette to make sure you are working on the actual layer you want to alter (it will be highlighted). Next, here are some keyboard commands to speed things along:
1. If you are on a PC, hold down the Control key (Ctrl) while you simultaneously hold down the “A” key, this selects the entire image on that layer. Next hold down the Control key (Ctrl) while you simultaneously hold down the “T” key, this action will help you “transform” the selected image and results in a bounding box around your image. (if you are on a Mac, hold down the apple/command key)
2. See those little boxes on the edges of your bounding box? They’re called handles. While holding down the shift key, click and drag on one of these handles to transform the size of your image. (holding down the shift key maintains the aspect ratio/perspective of your image)
3. When you are happy with the size, double click on your image to apply this transformation.
Let me know if that worked for you!
Erin
Love the show!!!! I have learned so many tips related to digital photography along with Photoshop Elements.
One question for you. On a recent episode “Softening Photos” you used a Filter Holder designed for digital cameras. Can you provide the Brand and/or contact information where one could be purchased? I have checked online and at local photography stores and have not had any luck in locating. I have so many filters from my 35mm days that I would love to use with my digital. Thanks!
Would also love to see your series available on DVD. You relay the information in a easy understandable manner. Keep the shows coming!
Donna
Hi Donna,
Thank you, I’m glad you love the show! The filters I used on “Softening Your Images” (show #207) are Cokin filters and I used a special shoe holder for compact digital cameras, here’s the link:
filters
I’ll relay the information about the request for DVD’s, you never know…
Erin
Erin,
I am so thrilled with your show… I tape it on my DVR and watch it over and over. You have inspired me to take pictures more and more!
My question is… how do I capture an action shot or a close up shot (for instance my son playing basketball or baseball)?
My camera never seems to go off in time for the play. Either my SLR or digital.
Thanks so much and keep up the great work!
Sharon
Erin my wife and I love your show. We have recently started a photography business and where hoping you could help us with a few things. How do the gold embossments get on professional pictures is it done by the printing company or can it be done afterwards? Can you do a show on medium format photography because we are looking at expanding our equipment and are looking at several things. Thank you for your time.
Heath & Kerry
Hello Erin
I too record your show on my DVR and watch it over and over. The other day you had a show on Media. You explained how to put the pictures from your camra to your MP3 Player. But I cannot figure out how to get the pictures from the MP3 Player to the computer. Or from the computer to the MP3 Player. I have a small Wedding Photography Business and would like to use my IPOD to have a small portfolio on it so I can take it with me everywhere I go. Can you tell me how to do this? T
Thanks
Julie
Erin,
Thank you so much for your show; it’s awesome how much valid and true information you pass along in such a short time. I record each show and review at each one at least 3-4 time.
My question is that I’m stuck in how to organize my pictures and get them into the right folder. I did follow you showing how to use Photoshop Elements 4 and it helped a lot. Still, my problem is that I have pictures all over the place. Some in Elements, some in Picasa2, some in HP Imagezone, some in Nero, some in Photo Explosion. I can’t seem to get them all together and organize them properly.
One last question. My wife takes about half the pictures and when we down load them we want to keep them separate how do we clean up all the mess listed above and how do we download them from now on to her group and my group.
You show is excellent, thank you so much.
Jim
Erin,
Watching your show makes me a better photograper each time my wife and I watch. It’s great and truly appreciated. Something I’ve learned is buy your camera and start taking the photos before any big events. Don’t wait. Take time to learn your camera at least 3 months before the wedding, the once in a life time vacation, the graduation, etc. Your watchers will be glad the did. The more you know your camera, the better photographer you become. Practice – Practice – Practice.
Jim
Erin,
Again, your show is outstanding and we are learning so much. Do you have any photo books on the market or books of the tips and instruction you give. I’d buy it. Your publist might consider picking out the advice from these e-mails that could be put into a book.
Jim
on your show on fixing black and white pics,where did you get the table top monitor,i think thats what you used,is it something that i can get?i think it had touch screen.thanks.
I am your biggest fan. I was watching your Aug 30th show, how to restore photos, by scanning the photo into your computer…
What was the touchscreen monitor that you were using?
I think I’ll have better control with using that pen, then I’ve been having with the mouse.
Keep up the good work, thanks
Hi Erin
I recently started watching your show after hearing of it on a board talking about Photoshop Elements. I really enjoy your PSE tips. I would also be interested in hearing about your photography and seeing examples of your work.
Now to my question.
Could you tell me which make and model of graphics tablet you used in the recent B&W photo restoration show. I am quite interested in purchasing one after seeing it’s benefits. I looked quickly on a couple of computer reseller web pages and the price ranges are broad anywhere from $50-500+. Could you also mention what features are important to look for. Yours looked as though it had the PSE tools superimposed into the tablet? Thanks Ted
I am interesting in finding out the monitor you used that connected with the light pen that you used in the photo restoration episode on 9/3/06.
Thank you. The shows and information are very informative and useful (and getting better).
I love your show. TiVo is my best friend when it comes to recording your show. I’m thinking of going on for some kind of schooling/training in photography. I love studio style work. Do you have any recommedations for online/@ home study courses? Do you have formal training, if so from where? Thanx for all you’ve taught me.
Hi Cathy,
Glad to hear that you love the show! I don’t really have any recommendations for home study training for photography, perhaps some other fellow bloggers that are reading this might know? However, I would recommend that you take as many local, hands-on photography classes and seminars as possible. Join a professional organization in your area, like APA (Advertising Photographers of America) http://www.apanational.com or ASMP (America Society of Media Photographers) http://www.asmp.org. Visuals, hands-on learning along with networking with your peers on a regular basis really helps accelerate the learning curve. I go to at least one seminar a month at my local APA chapter to learn something, network with other photographers, share information and ask questions.
When I first began getting serious about photography, about 12 years ago, I went to intense workshops and classes that lasted anywhere from a few days to a few months. They were very helpful in moving me to the next level. Santa Fe Workshops has some great classes too http://www.sfworkshop.com. I did not attend a formal 4 year photography school but instead honed my aesthetic skills by going back to school (in my 30′s) to attain a degree in graphic design while I also took many classes, seminars and workshops covering the technical aspect of photography.
Hope this helped!
Erin