Bargain Hunting - With a flurry of new models arriving earlier in the years and ore expected to appear soon, there's no better time to pick up a great camera at a great price. We reveal eight of the very best deals
Usually around the months of July and August there's a bit of a lull in the number of new models that are launched as camera manufacturers put the finishing touches to their very latest innovations which are due to be unveiled at the world's largest imaging trade fairs. With new models expected, it has the knock on effect of lowering the price of cameras announced earlier in the year to make them more attractive to buy, but also has an influence on the price of older cameras, which often only have minor differences from the camera that replaced them due to the rapid turnaround of product life cycles. One example is the fujifilm X-E2 - a model launched late in 2013 to replace the Fujifilm X-E1. It can now be picked cheaper nine months later and has helped to lower the price of the x-E1, of which there are still a number of examples to buy as the manufacturer looks to sells its remaining stock.
With DSLRs, CSCs and Compacts constantly being renewed it's perhaps no surprise that the greatest bargains are picked up on cameras rather than lenses. THe prices of many cameras can change daily, so in order to pick up the best deal. It's important to check retailers and price comparison websites regularly. A highly recommended website that can speed up the time it takes to find the best deal online. it usefully lists all the best prices of cameras and lenses from recognised retailers and also provides price history so you can view how much any given products has dropped in price. As with any online deal, if a price seems too good to be true, it usually is, so be wary of parting with your money. Always research retailers you've never bought from before an be conscious of grey imports outside the UK from unrecognised retailers that could incur extra unknown costs. If you're unsure we'd always recommend giving the retailer a call, which will allow you to check if the product is still available. Don't be afraid to ask if they'll price-match too, most retailers will try to meet the best prices you may find elsewhere.
8 Digital Camera Very Deals On Market
Panasonic Lumix TZ40 The Panasonic Lumix TZ40 that's picked up a number of accolades for being the best travel compact on the market. Pros
- Huge zoom
- Optical stabilisation
Fujiflm FinePix Xp-200 Fujiflm FinePix Xp-200 - Waterproof to 15m, shockproof from up to 2m and freeze-proof to -10C, it features a 16MP 1/2.3in CMOS sensor and a 5x optical zoom providing a focal length that's equivalent to 28-140mm. What more, not only is it one of the best looking tough compacts around, it's available in yellow, red, blue or black and features Wi-fi for instant wireless transfer to smartphones and tablets.
Nikon D3100 Nikon D3100 - Though its sensor and screen resolution are no match for Nikon's current entry level DSLRs. newcomers to it from a compact camera will be able to see the image quality benefits straight away, while being able to unleash their potential.
Fujifilm X-E1 Fujiflm X-E1 -Our Recommended choice would be the excellent 18-55mm XF f/2.8-4 R LM OIS lens. One alternative is the Fujiflm 27mmm f/2.8 XF lens for a best price.
Pros
- Premium finish
- Excellent EVF
Cons
- Screen resolution
- AF speed could be faster
Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 Sony Cyber Shot RX100 - The introduction of the RX100 II and RX100 III have played their part in reducing the parice of the original and although the newer models come with advanced features, such as a flip out screen in the case of the RX100 II and a pop up EVF in the case of the RX100 III, the original RX100 remains a superb pocket size compact capable of delivering exceptional image quality. It's a deal that's extremely hard to resist.
Olympus Pen E-PL5 Olympus Pen E-PL5 - For those after a more clinical look, it can also be picked up in white with a silver lens. For those who may already own Micro Four Thirds lenses.
Pros
- Metal finish
- Fast single AF
- Image quality
Nikon D7000 Nikon D7000 - The omission of the anti aliasing filter also exhibits certain crispness when it's used with pro spec glass. Throw in the 18-105mm it lens. however this remains excellent value for money for a superb DSLR.
Canon EOS 6D The Canon 6D would be an excellent backup body for professionals or semi pros who may already be using the Canon EOS 1DX or Canon EOS 5D Mark III. Add the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 : IS USM lens to your basket. with a best prices available.
Great Portraits don't always require a big studio and pro lighting. With these tips you can create six stunning styles with limited kit.
Portraiture is an accessible genre, which needn't cost fortune to practice. in this hand on shooting guide we'll show you six great ways to capture stunning portrait styles, all of which are achievable with little time and money.
People are all around us every day of our lives, so you don't necessarily need to hire a models to get to grips with the genre. Grab a willing friend or family member and hone you shooing skills before you begin searching the models agencies.
You can also forget about expensive, elaborate studio kit : it's perfectly possible to take creative images without the need to spend thousands. Even some simple net curtains can put to good use as a portrait accessory : the key is knowing what you want to achieve and looking for ways to create it in camera.
In order to demonstrate the scope and flexibility of portrait photography, we will demonstrate there very different environments - a small studio, outside in the middle of the day and inside in a living room using just the available light.
each location presents its own unique challenges and benefits but all are equally ideal for portraits Photography , and the similarities are actually greater than the differences. In each situation you will be working with the light to create your image. We're on hand to show you how to manipulate the light to create six distinct portrait styles.
You will also need to know how to work with your subject or models, to help them to relax and pose in a way that works with the type of image you are trying to create. Let's get shooting...
Useful Portrait Kit - Five Useful Tools of the trade
Lastolite Available in three sizes, this kit has absolutely all you need for soft and diffused off camera flash, including a portable stand, brackets and softbox.For USA >> Where To Buy <<For UK >> Where To Buy <<
Working in a different way to other airbrushing programs. This dedicated portrait software makes light work of removing skin imperfections and can even perform re-sculpting work. For USA >> Where To Buy <<For UK >> Where To Buy <<
This is an immensely handy and portable piece of kid, allowing you to control and odify the light quickly and easily. Includes gold, silver, black and white surfaces plus a translucent diffuser. For USA >> Where To Buy <<For UK >> Where To Buy <<
A CTO (Colour Temperature Orange) gel can be purchased as part of a kit ( a range of different configurations are available) and enables you to play with white balance and colour temperature while using off camera flash. For USA >> Where To Buy <<For UK >> Where To Buy <<
In the Studio Learn to create a high key Setup and a moody low key arrangement
Using a three light setup with a white background has enabled us to create this modern high key image.
High Key
The Look
The high-key look typically involves bright and bold images set against a white background. The subject is normally very brightly lit by the key light hence the term (high key). This style gives the photographer flexibility to break some of the rules of portraiture. The skin tones may be a stop or more of portraiture. THe skin tones may be a stop or more lighter than they should be and spill from the background lights may be incorporated into the image.
Check List
Equipment
- White background
- There studio flash heads
- Softbox for the key light
- Standdard reflectors
Techiques
- Balances there lights
- Posing the model
- Framing and composition
The Setup
To achieve the high key look you will normally need at least there light. Two of these lights will be used to light the background, one on each side. A third light is used as the key light that illuminates the subject. Some photographer choose to also add a fourth light to further eliminate shadows. This shot uses a three light arrangement and we're using a standard zoom lens on our DSLR as this gives us plenty of flexibility, A fast shutter speed of 1/200 sec and an aperture of about F11 work best.
Getting The Shooting
If you position your subject very near the background and background lights, you may find that a lot of light bounces back onto the subject an creates a soft looking image or flare sports. Avoid overexposing the background and bring the subject nearer the key light. Try to get your model to adopt bold, striking poses and experiment with interesting compositions that look dramatic and dynamic.
Alternatively, Try This...
If you only have access to two lights, you can still produce effective high key images. Light your background to produce pure white and then place a reflector between the camera and the subject to bounce some of the light back in lieu of a key light. Open up your camera's aperture to ensure correct exposure on the model - we've gone for f56 here.
High key generally demands more light but we also achieved the same effect using just two studio lights.
For our high key setup, our model is lit by just one light but there are a further two lights used on the white background.
Low Key
The look
Shot Portraits in a very small studio space, but had all the room that needed.
The low key look is a much more traditional and classic approach to portraiture. very often the images will look especially effective when converted to black and white. Portraits taken using low key lighting ten to make use of moddy expressions from the subject and frequently have an air of mystery and intrigue about them.
The Setup
you can produce low key lighting effects with just one light. One studio flash fitted with a softbox (or beauty dish) is all you really need. The only potential problem is that in a small studio space light may bounce back from walls, floors and ceilings and spoil your shadows. Avoid this by using black *absorbers* (You an use any black surface with a matte finish, which will do the job of reducing reflections) and by shooting with a fast shutter speed to reduce the influence of ambient light as far as possible. We've increased the shutter speed to 1/250 sec here.
Getting the shot
You will need to position your subject carefully in relation to the light in order to make the shadow as attractive as possible. The modelling lamp in the flash head will give you some idea, but firing some test shot and watching the camera's LCD allow you to see exactly what's going on. Aim for an elegant, sophisticated or moddy pose. You also want your model to be wearing black or very dark clothing which will enhance the shot.
"One studio flash fitted with a softbox is all you really need"
Check List
Equipment
- Studio flash and softbox
- Black or dark background
- Black 'absorbers' to prevent light bouncing
Techniques
- Using a single light
- Control the spill of light
- Pose your subject to complement the lighting
This Low key image is very simple to create and requires a minimal amount of equipment. In this care. just one flash with softbox does the job
Pros and Cons Of Studio Lighting
- Control all aspects of the light and background
- Images Look polished and professional
> Not easy for everyone to access a studio
> Equipment may not suit everyone's budget
Natural Light Setup
Check ListEquipment- Net curtain- Silver or white relector Techniques- Use a natural *key light*- Balance light on the face- Deliberate overexposure
Check List
Equipment
- Net curtain
- Silver or white refletor
Techiques
- Use a nantura background
- Use a reflector as a key light
- Remove background detail
- Deliberate overexposure
Discover how window light can be all you need to create dramatic results
Net Effects
The Look
When you use studio flash, you almost always modify it, such as by using a softbox. When working with natural light, keep the same idea in mind. The net curtains in a living room are ideal, Diffusing the light in much the same way as a softbox does. This is an ideal technique for photographing a bride on her wedding morning.
The Setup
Aside from the large window and net curtains, a small silver reflector is used to bounce a little light back onto the side of her face. A shallow depth of field reduces unwanted detail so a wide aperture of f2.8 is ideal. By ignoring the camera's meter and slowing the shutter speed, we've been able to overexpose the shot and create a high key effect without any flash.
Getting the Shot
We've asked our model to lean into the curtains and rest her head on them while looking back at the camera. We've also asked her to wear a simple white top to match thee texture and tone of the net curtains.
If the contrast is too hight, introduce a reflective surface to subtly fill in shadow on the other side of the subject's face
If you don't have any fancy gear beyond the camera itself-some white card or silver foil can be used as a reflector.
Pros and cons of Natural Lighting
- Natural light is free! it doesn't cost you anything to use and it's all around us.
- Images taken in natural light look closer to what our eyes actually see in everyday life.
> You can't control natural light to the extent taht ou can control falsh lighting
> On very dull days or in low light you'll need to use a camera that can perform well when using high ISOs
"If there's space, try getting the model to sit down or go for a full-length shot"
Overexposed Background
Equipment
- Net curtain
- Silver or white refletor
Techiques
- Use a nantura background
- Use a reflector as a key light
- Remove background detail
The Look
Rather than positioning the model so that the light is falling onto her face, you could also try posing her with her back to the light source. If there's enough space in you location, perhaps you could even consider getting the model to sit down or go for a full length shot.
The Setup
A small reflector is used to ensure light bounces back onto the model from the window behind her. This setup almost exactly recreates the studio setup we tried using just two background lights and a reflector. Just as we did then, we've opened up the camera's aperture to ensure that the model is correctly exposed.
Getting shot
Ask the model to look off to the side and slightly overexpose the image again. Ignore the camera's meter. IF you expose for the background (in this care the window light) not only will the model end up being very underexposed, you will also record detail from outside such as cars an brick walls.
Location Setups
Using your flash or speed light off camera dramatically increases the range of shots you can take on location and lets you control the ambient light.
Check list
Equipment
- Hotshoe flash unit
- Flash braket and stand
- Portable softbox
- PocketWizards or wireless trigger
Techiques
- Underexpose the light
- Balance flash with ambient light
Off-Camera Flash
The Look
For this shot, we will produce a fashion style images with very underexposed ambient light. Our model's is illuminated by just one small off camera flash. The more power offered by the flash the better as it makes underexposing the ambient light easier. However, the effect can still be achieved with a regular hotshoe flash or speed light.
The setup
we are using a Nikon SB-800 mounted on the portable stand and fitted with a small softbox to light this shot. This was positioned to the right of the camera (the model's left) an angled at 45 degrees toward her. Using the flash mounted on the camera would have resulted in a less effective looking shot as we wouldn't be able to control how the shadows fall on her face.
Getting the shot
The ambient light is underexposed by two and a half to there stops, leaving the flash to do all the work. We asked the model to play with her scarf and look straight into the lens.
"Play around with the white balance settings on your DSLR"
This is a great way of creating a quick and dramatic effect outside. For an extra bit of contrast, try adding a half CTO gel in addition to the full CTO gel.
Using Gels
This is a great way of creating a quick and dramatic effect outside. For an extra bit of contrast, try adding a half CTO gel in addition to the full CTO gel.
Check list
Equipment
- Hotshoe flash unit
- Flash braket and stand
- Portable softbox
- PocketWizards or wireless trigger
Techiques
- Underexpose the light
- Balance flash with ambient light
The Look
You can create dramatic effects outdoors by experimenting with a gel on your flash and playing around with the white balance settings on your DSLR. This can produce a range of creative and interesting effects straight out of the camera with minimal post processing work.
The Setup
A hotshoe flash fitted with a full CTO ( Colour Temperature Orange) gel was positioned on a portable stand to the right of the camera (the model's left). The gel ensures that the background records as a cool blue due to the white balance settings used.
Getting the Shot
We asked the model to sit in one of the trees and compose the image so that the line of trees stretching out into the distance is visible over her right shoulder. Only the model, plus the tree in which she is sitting, are affected by the output from the flash, creating the effect we were after.
Pros and cons of location lighting
- There can be lots of potential to explore
- Use flash or the ambient light, depending on the effect you can
> Weather conditions may not be great on the day
> It can be har to get rid of all distracting/unattractive elements from the scene
There are though, long zoom, fixed lens and manual control compact cameras to choose from, so which type is best for you?
Anything with a fixed lens is in essence, a compact camera. This covers models that can fit in a pocket through to those with huge optical zooms. Since there's such a wide range of options it's worth paying attention to the feature lists, because there often have a huge impact on the aesthetics.
The more traditional shape of compact camera is wider than it is tall, and can fit into a pocket quite easily. The feature set can differ quite wildly between models, from those with large, touch-screen displays to those with wide-angle lenses, or the ability to withstand the cold and rain.
At the budget end factors such as the zoom range. LCD Screen and designs are quite basic. Batteries are often lithium-ion rechargeable options (some still use AA alternatives) but a decent models can be picked up for cheap. This makes the lower end of the market perfect for Amateur Photographer or as Christmas or birthday gifts.
Head up a price band and you'll find the longer optical zooms, larger screens and manual controls becomes more commonplace. Lithium-ion batteries are also virtually assured, alongside a more solid build, while the likes of GPS - in order to bag images by location - also begin to appear.
At this price range (tough) cameras also become available. Although outwardly they look quite similar to a standard model, these compacts are able to stand up to being dropped from a height onto a hard surface. drunken underwater and frozen, which makes them perfect for extreme sports.
Heading toward the upper end brings about the large optical zoom range, huge displays (up to 4.8in), an full manual controls. Some models, such as the Fujifilm X100S and Canon PowerShot G1 X, even offer a larger sensor to improve image quality.
Bridge cameras, also called (super-zoom) models, are aimed almost entirely at providing the user with the largest possible zoom in a fixed lens camera. The bodies are thus quite bulky. Looking like a reduced size DSLR with a large grip and an electronic viewfinder.
Some compacts, especially the more expensive one, offer a fixed lens not a zoom lens. Although this gives the camera the best possible optical quality (as the lens is only optimised for a single focal length, and indeed, a single sensor too) to lack of optical zoom does make them far less versatile. Which compact camera should i buy?
Fujifilm X-E1
