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General Forum Questions | Monthly Challenge Questions | Navigating the Forum
Online Camera Purchasing Questions | Digital Camera Questions | Digital VS. Film Based Photography Questions
35MM SLR Camera Questions | Medium Format Camera Questions | Large Format Camera Questions
Camera Accessory Questions | Camera Lens & Filter Questions | Scanner & Scanning Questions
Alternative Process Questions | Photo Editing Software Questions
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General Forum Questions
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How do I post one of my photographs to the forum?
Just below the Forum Banner, Mission Statement and Links on the main forum page is a series of option links. Select the option titled "Post a new message". This will open a new page where you can read the instructions and upload an image.
Are there any restrictions to the type of photographs that can be posted?
Our restrictions are simple. You may not post any pornographic images. Anyone who violates this rule will have their image removed and be reported to the Renderosity administration for further action.
In addition, any photograph posted in the forum must conform to the Renderosity Terms of Service. We suggest that you read the TOS agreement before posting for the first time, or if you have a question about what is acceptable and what is not. To read the TOS, please click here.
I understand that there is no pornographic images allowed in this forum, but what about nudity?
The human body is a wonderful thing and has been used in every imaginable art form throughout history. We do not restrict the posting of photographs that include, or use nudity in an artistic manner. If you are unsure if an image you would like to post conforms to this standard, we strongly suggest you contact one of the forum moderators before posting.
I am confused with some of the terminology used here in the forum. Where can I go to learn what certain photographic terms mean?
Our first suggestion would be to ask the meaning of an unfamiliar word or term in the thread where you found it. You will find that the majority of people here in the forum are very friendly and more than happy to answer simple questions.
As an alternative, you can access our forum's Dictionary of Photographic Terms by visiting the Forums Learning Center, and selecting Terms button on the menu. To go to the Learning Center Click Here Now.
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Forum Features and Navigation
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There seems to be a lot of cool stuff here. What are all the Forum Features?
The Photography Forum consists of three main sections. They are:
- The Main Forum
- The Learning Center
- News and Views
The Main Forum, as one might imagine, is the central place to meet and discuss anything and everything related to photography. Feel free to post your images, ask questions, and/or share your knowledge, experience and opinions with others.
The Learning Center is fast becoming a valuable resource for photographers of all levels. Here you will find Tutorials, a Dictionary of Photographic Terms and Terminology, an inspirational section where classic photographs are explained in technical and artistic terms, an Archive of past feature articles, and a large collection of links to the vast wealth of knowledge on the Internet relating to photography.
News and Views is our clearing house for up to the minute forum events, and contests. You will also find feature articles written by forum members, equipment, and software reviews submitted by members, and a section that covers anything and everthing that doesn't quit fit anywhere else.
Please be aware that the Learning center along with News and Views are new features for the forum, and that not all planned content is currently available. We are working as fast as we can to get these sections up to speed, but do not want to sacrifice quality for quantity. If you would like to submit any material, or if you have any questions, please feel free to contact dBgrafix, or cynlee for more information.
So how do I find all this stuff?
Starting at the top is our forum banner, below that is our mission statement and right below that circled in red are the links to The Learning Center, The Main Forum, and to News and Views.
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Monthly Challenge Questions
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How can I enter the Monthly Challenges ?
We have two distinct challenges each month. The "genre" Challenge and the "forum" Challenge.
You can find links to these challenges each month at the top of any Photo forum or gallery page
The Genre Challenge takes place on a seperate challenge page each month.The rules for the challenge are always located on the challenge page
Each member may enter TWO Images for this challenge.
All entries for this challenge must be no greater than 1024x1024 pixels and under 200KB
Voting is currently taking place in a thread in the forum each month follwing the close of the challenge
What happens if there is a tie in the voting?
In the event of a tie for the Genre challenge, the challenge managers will have the final decision.
The Forum Challenge is less formal, and runs in a thread in the Photography forum.
For the Forum Challenge, each member is allowed to post THREE images per month. You may comment as much as you desire.
Images must be no greater than 800x600 pixels and under 200KB
There is no voting for this challenge.
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Online Camera and Accessory Purchasing Questions.
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Is it better to by a camera online, or from a regular store?
This is a tough question as there are pros and cons to both. It is probably best to ask yourself what your needs are and which type of merchant best meet your own personal needs.
Where can I buy a camera, or camera equipment online?
There are many reputable dealers and camera stores online today. However, based on a survey of many buyers the majority of people are most satisfied with shops that have an established brick and mortar location and a long history of customer service and satisfaction.
What are the best online stores?
Different people are going to have different experiences and opinions. With that in mind we cannot honestly say that one online store is better than another. We are considering setting up a page that would include as many online stores as we can find and allow forum members to comment on their experiences with specific shop. If you think this would be a valuable service to the community, please contact one of your moderators and let us know.
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Digital Camera Questions.
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Where can I find reliable information on digital cameras and compare their features?
Probably the best place on the Web right now for complete up to date reviews is Digital Photography Review. They have an extensive list of cameras that they have reviewed and tend to have the most current information. To visit their site, Click Here.
What is the best digital camera for my budget?
Because the technology of digital cameras is changing almost daily, we would suggest that you read a number of current reviews and post this question to the forum. We have a variety of people here using different digital cameras, and they are always glad to share their experiences with different brands and models.
What is a CCD?
CCD is an abbreviation or acronym for a Charged Coupled Device. Basically it is a chip that captures the light passing through the lens through a digital camera at the time of exposure. For all practical purposes it is the film of a digital camera.
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Digital VS. Film Based Photography Questions.
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Is it better to buy a digital, or a film based camera?
This has become a very emotionally charged issue for many photographers, the truth is that the answer will vary depending on the specific needs of the individual. We are currently planing an article that will objectively weigh the pros and cons of each. When it is completed, a link will be provided here.
I have heard it is much less expensive to own a digital camera. Is this true?
The cost of owning and operating either a digital or film based camera will vary from on person to another. Because the prices of cameras and peripherals are changing daily, providing a detailed cost analysis would be an exercise in futility on our part.
However, there are a number of costs related to owning and operating a digital camera that should be considered before making a purchasing decision. A basic list would include: the quality and flexibility of the camera itself, adequate memory for storage of images while shooting, extra batteries, photo editing software, a photo quality printer, photo quality paper and printer inks or dyes.
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35 MM SLR Camera Questions.
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What is the difference between a 35 MM SLR camera and just a plain 35 MM camera?
A 35 MM SLR camera allows you to view the image you are going to photograph directly through the lens via a mirror and the viewfinder whereas a plain (commonly referred to as a point and shoot) camera has a separate viewfinder that uses its own lens to compose an image.
This difference is extremely important if you plan on using your camera to photograph anything more than your standard family snapshots as a point and shoot camera can only approximate what will be recorded on the film and a SLR allows you to see exactly what you are going to photograph.
For complete in depth articles on camera basics you can visit our forum's Learning Center. There you will find information pertaining to almost anything photography related. To visit the Learning Center, click here.
Can you tell me what is the best 35 MM SLR for me to buy?
We do not endorse any one brand, or model of camera. What we will say is that there are several major manufacturers one should consider when making this decision, and that it is highly advisable for you to think in terms of a system that will allow you to grow.
The term system is key here. Camera bodies, lenses flash units and other accessories should be interchangeable. This way as you grow and develop as a photographer the equipment you start with remains an integral part of the system, and it does not become obsolete as your skills improve and your desire to move in new directions emerges.
I have an old 35 MM SLR that was given to me by someone. Is it worth using?
This will depend on the original quality of the camera and its current condition. The best suggestion we can make is to take the camera to a reputable dealer and have it appraised. Once you know the original value and what a current camera of similar capabilities is worth, you have a base to start from.
If the camera functions well use it, if there are problems it will need to be repaired. This is usually best accomplished by sending the camera to the manufacturers repair facility in you country. There the repairs can be estimated and you can decide whether or not the cost is worth it to you.
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Medium Format Camera Questions
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What is a Medium Format Camera?
The term medium format is used to describe any camera that uses film larger than 35 MM and smaller than 4" X 5". However, in today's market almost all medium format cameras use 120 Roll film.
The advantage to these cameras over their 35 MM counterparts is that the film is several times larger. This allows for more detail to be captured during exposure. This, in turn, allows for greater enlargement during printing and/or sharper prints at an equal size.
Should I consider a Medium Format camera for a first, or primary camera?
If you are just getting into photography, the price of a basic medium format system may be prohibitive. Most, if not all, medium format camera systems are designed to stand up to the daily rigors and needs of the professional photographer. As such, their price is considerably higher than that of an entry level 35 MM SLR system for the recreational user or avid amateur.
This does not mean that if you have carefully researched your options and believe that this where you would like to start you shouldn't. In fact if you have the desire and the money to back that up, then go for it. Just be aware that everything involved with a medium format camera is larger and more costly.
Are Medium Format cameras harder to use than a 35MM SLR cameras?
From a technical standpoint, no. In fact, many of today's medium format camera systems incorporate nearly the same level of automated functions that make 35 MM SLRs so appealing. However, their additional size and weight does make them a little more awkward to handle.
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Large Format Camera Questions
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What is a Large Format camera?
A large Format camera is considered any camera that uses 4" X 5" film, or larger. On a commercial level 4" X 5" has become the standard. However there are a good range of high quality Large Format cameras that are designed and built to accept film sizes up 11" X 14" and larger.
The real beauty of a large format camera is the level of control in creating the exposure and the amazing detail one can achieve in the print. These factors alone make the Large Format camera the choice of many professional and dedicated amateur photographers throughout the world.
Where can I find more information on Large Format photography?
One of the best non-commercial sources for Large Format photography is called A Large Format Photography Homepage. To visit this site, Click Here.
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Camera Accessory Questions
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What are the "Must Have" accessories that every photographer should own?
There are three or four accessory items that every photographer should consider owning before thinking about the things they would like to have. These are:
- A camera bag, or pack that allows your equipment to be carried around safely while providing you easy access to your gear.
- A sturdy tripod that will support the weight of your camera and lens system.
- A shutter release cable, either electronic, or mechanical, that works with your system.
- An electronic flash that fully integrates with your system. (These are usually made by the same manufacturer as your camera)
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Camera Lens and Filter Questions
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Where can I go to find accurate information about lenses?
Probably one of the most extensive sites on the internet on lenses is Photodo.com. They have extensive reviews and test results on over 900 35 MM and Medium Format camera lenses. To visit their site, Click Here.
What is the difference between a telephoto, and a zoom lens?
People often mistakenly use these two words to refer to lenses that have a longer focal length. A telephoto lens refers to any 35 MM SLR lens that has a focal length of 135 MM or more. A zoom lens, on the other hand, can be used to describe any lens that has an adjustable range of focal lengths regardless of what these lengths are.
For example, a 28MM to 70MM zoom lens covers the range from a moderate wide angle through a normal lens. However, it does not even begin to fall into the category of a true telephoto lens.
Why would I want a filter for my lens?
Lens filters serve a variety of functions. These range from mild UV filtering and lens protection to color correction to creative enhacement and control.
The most popular and IMO absolutely essential filter is the skylight filter. This filter provides mild UV filtering that noticeably warms the image when using color film outdoors. More importantly this filter protects the lens. I have destroyed several of these filters over the years and in each instance the fact that the filter was broken or scratched meant that I had saved a lens that cost at least 10 times as much as the filter.
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Scanner and Scanning Technique Questions
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It seems like there are hundreds of scanners to choose from today. What are the best scanners for scanning my photographs into the computer?
Scanners fall into three basic categories. These are; drum scanners, flatbed scanners, and film scanners. Because of their high cost drum scanners are generally used in only in color labs and high end print houses. For desktop use in photography and graphic design this leaves flatbed scanners and film scanners. Each of these categories has their pros and cons.
By far the most popular scanners in use today are flatbed scanners. These versatile tools have the ability to scan any reflective object from a photographic print to a leaf or flower. Some better quality models also have the ability to scan transparencies.
While less popular than the flatbed, film scanners are truly a photographers best friend when it comes to accuracy that is true to the original exposure. The advantage of film scanners for photographic purposes is considerable. First off the scan is made directly from the film itself. This means that there is virtually no loss in quality from the negative, or transparency to the CCD.
As you can see there are enough variables that the answer to the question depends on the individuals needs. Probably the best advice we can give is to remember that you get what you pay for. When purchasing a scanner, buy the best one you can afford.
How can I get the best possible scans?
To start with, we would suggest fully reading the manual that came with your particular scanner. This should give you a good understanding of its capabilities and limitations. Once you have a solid base to work from following these simple steps should put you on the road to great scans.
- Start Clean... Whether you are using a flatbed, or a film scanner it is important that you keep everything clean. This is extremely important for your prints and/or film. It is always best to where some thin white cotton gloves to prevent the oil and/or dirt from your skin from getting on your print or film. While this is not as critical on prints, once you have gotten oil or dirt from your skin onto the film, it is there forever.
- Clean Some More... If you are using a flatbed scanner, make sure that the glass is clean and dust free. Then regardless of your scanner make sure your print or film is clean. The best ways to accomplish this are to use a soft anti-static brush and/or a can of compressed air. Simply brush or blow and dust off before loading your image into the scanner.
*NOTE* Do not try to wipe dirt off of film! This will only push the dirt deeper into the emulsion and in all likelihood scratch the negative. You should also be very careful when using compressed air. Keep the can upright and use shot bursts that do not expose the film to the excessive cold created by the propellant in the can.
- If you know the exact requirements for your final output, it is always best to scan to those requirements. If you do not, we would recommend the following: For a flatbed scanner, scan so that your final dimensions are at least equal to the print size at 300 PPI (Pixels Per Inch). For a film scanner select the maximum size and adjust to 300 PPI. This should give you a satisfactory working size and will allow you to resize to a smaller dimension and/or resolution without any noticeable loss in quality.
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Alternative Photographic Process Questions
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What is an Alternative Photographic Process?
Up until about 8 to 10 years ago, any photographic process that did not involve standard capture, processing techniques, or printing techniques and materials was considered alternative. Since the advent of digital cameras and the digital darkroom this is no longer true.
However, there are many alternative photographic processes that are alive and doing well today. For the most part these are processes that while based on traditional photographic principles still vary from the established standards of film based photography.
These include for example: Pinhole Photography, Albumen Printing, Platinum Printing, Hand Coloring of Black & White Photographs, Infra-Red Photography and more.
While the scope of this FAQ does not allow for a detailed explanation of each of these processes, rest assured that we are working on informative articles and tutorials that will cover these areas in much greater detail. As these become available, links will be posted here, in the Learning Center and in the Tutorial section.
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Photo Editing Software Questions.
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What is the best Photo Editing software available?
While the virtues of many programs could be debated, the fact is that Adobe Photoshop is currently the industry standard for photo editing software. It is available for Both Macintosh and Windows operating systems.
With that said there are a number of other programs that work exceptionally well. Below is a list of links to some popular Photo Editing software programs. Most of these offer a demo version that will allow you try the program before making a purchasing decision.
What are Plug-ins, and how do they work?
Plug-ins are a form of software that adds new features, or enhances the existing functionality of a software program. In the case of Photo Editing software this includes filter effects, color management, file management, compression and more.
Below is a list of links to some of the most popular companies creating plug-ins. If you know of a plug-in that you believe should be on this list, please contact Syyd, or Alpha with the URL. We will do our best to keep this list all inclusive and current.
Is there any type of Photo Editing, or Enhancement software that is free?
Yes! Below is a list of links to Photo-Editing Software that is freely available with no need to purchase a licence.
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