Photo4Less Photography Equipment Blog

History of SLR Cameras

2010-04-01T09:00:00.000-04:00

This is the first pentaprism camera for eye level viewing, the 1949 German Contax S.

SLR, or single lens reflex, cameras use a single mirror to allow the viewer to look through the camera to see what he will shoot. Prior to this, all cameras had two paths to the lens, one to the film, the other positioned above, called a twin lens reflex camera (TLR). The viewfinder and the optical lens cannot share the same path and so the film lens intersects with the viewing lens somewhere in front of the camera.

Most SLR cameras use a pentaprism to solve this inconvenience of not being able to take pictures of things far away. The pentaprism reflects the image twice, which allows the viewer to see the image without inversion.

Prior to this technology, SLR’s came with a waist high focusing screen. The first modern SLR camera was the Duflex in 1947. Canon SLR cameras first entered the market in the 1950’s.

Today Canon SLR cameras come digital and they allow you to see what it is you’re about to shoot on an LCD screen. If you want to shop digital cameras, Canon SLR cameras are an excellent option. For others, come to www.photo4less.com to view Nikon cameras and other makes and models.

Next Time You Shop Digital Cameras, Get a Battery Grip

2010-03-22T09:00:00.001-04:00

When you shop digital cameras, there are tons of tempting accessories to indulge in. A camera bag is a necessity, as you want to keep your new piece of machinery safe and sound. Lenses are a pricey add-on, but a must for anyone looking for variety in their shots. Filters, as we mentioned last week, are great for getting really varied, creative shots no matter what the lighting situation is like. Tripods are optimal for steady shots and portraits, but many can do without them because they’re a little heavy to lug around and aren’t really a necessity for the average photographer. Something that many people overlook when they shop digital cameras is a battery grip.

You don’t have to be a professional to benefit from a battery grip. The main benefit is more power and longer battery life. Two batteries mean you have to recharge half as much. Another benefit is the second shutter release button and setting dial, which can make portrait shooting a lot easier. Battery grips do add quite a bit of bulk to your camera. The weight can be a disadvantage if you’re not looking to carry around extra-weight, but for some, it makes taking steady shots easier. The added weight really makes the camera sit in your hand allowing you to control any unwanted shake easier than you would with a lighter camera.

Filters for Nikon Cameras

2010-03-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

Filters have an incredibly important effect on your images, and are absolutely necessary if you’re looking to have more creative range in your photography. Even though Photoshop is around to do just about anything we want to our photos, if you are serious about photography, filters are a must, even for digital SLR Nikon Cameras.

It was Ansel Adams who said that human perception and the photographic processes are completely different. So with that said, its imperative that photographers use filtration in their photography to create a truly creative image. Filters are great because they allow you to reflect your imagination, as opposed to a simply Xeroxing reality as you see it. Filters are also handy for your Nikon cameras when you’re in area with bad lighting and need to compensate.

Grad neutral density and Polarizing filters are a necessity, because the results you get from using these simply cannot be duplicated, even with Photoshop. Polarizing filters are used to select which light rays go into your lens. They are handy for removing unwanted reflections and saturate colors providing better contrast. Color conversion filters are also great for producing a warmer tone for images by balancing daylight and artificial lighting.

The Panasonic Lumix 20mm f/1.7 Available Now at Photo4Less.com!

2010-03-08T08:10:00.000-05:00

The new Micro Four Thirds cameras introduced a whole new shooting experience to photography enthusiasts all over the world. The connivance of having a small bodied camera with the capabilities of a DSLR is truly groundbreaking and the possibilities are endless. Cameras like the innovative Olympus E-P1 created such a stir and excitement that is hardly seen anymore. It’s retro design and superior images bring the fun back into digital photography and the results are amazing indeed.

But they say that if you want to make the most out of your Micro 4/3 camera, there is one, must-have lens on the market – the Panasonic Lumix 20mm f/1.7. This gorgeous pancake lens produces excellent, Leica like results, and a super shallow depth of field. The Lumix 20mm focal length is equivalent to 40mm on a 35mm film camera and comprised of seven (!) lenses that are masterfully arranged in five groups.

Read the full review here

This magnificent Lumix 20mm lens got rave reviews all over. DPReview.com concluded that this is a “highly recommended” lens, “a winning combination of small size, high all-round image quality and excellent low-light capability”. Steve Huff of Steve Huff photos remarked that “The Panasonic 20 1.7 is a lens I can easily recommend” and the only problem with this lens is that it’s sold out everywhere.

Steve Huff Photo

This lens sells out like hot cakes and hits crazy price marks on Ebay and such.
Well, luckily, Photo4Less has the Panasonic Lumix 20mm f 1.7 lens available, in stock, right now, for an amazing price of $399. So if you’re looking to take your Micro 4/3 photography to a new level and get a truly unique fast lens with low light capabilities and shallow depth of field – then head on to www.Photo4Less.com today and get yourself the Panasonic Lumix 20mm.

Shopping for Nikon Cameras? Nikon D40 is the Camera of Your Dreams

2010-03-01T09:00:00.001-05:00

Years ago, if you wanted to take professional grade photos, it usually meant you were doomed to lug extremely heavy and extremely expensive equipment around everywhere. But those days are over thanks to amazing advances in the digital camera world.

Many Nikon cameras offer the same professional results, with less equipment at more modest prices.

Specifically, the Nikon D40 offers tons of features that make it a great option for those looking into DSLR for the first time, and has enough going for it that even the experienced photographer can find it extremely useful.

Features:
• Superior image quality.
Like most Nikon Cameras, you can anticipate fantastic quality photos. Stunningly sharp images and vivid color can be expected with the D40 thanks to its 6.1 megapixel Nikon DX format CCD imaging sensor and exclusive Nikon image processing center.
• Lightweight.
The D40 is a mere 16 ounces! Out of all the Nikon cameras, it’s the smallest to date.
• Fast start up with instant shutter response.
The D40 shoots up to 2.5 frames per second making it easier to capture those special moments instantly.
• 2.5 inch color LCD monitor with in-camera photo editing.
The larger screen makes playing back your images easier on the eyes and the in-camera editing allows you to nip problems like red-eye in the bud, without the need for a computer.

Nikon Cameras vs. Canon SLR Cameras

2010-02-22T08:50:00.000-05:00

These two companies are the leading competitors in cameras. If you’re looking to get serious with photography, these are your best options. But which one is better? Let’s take a look.
In terms of functionality and features, Canon SLR cameras and Nikon cameras are about the same. To really isolate the differences between these two cameras, we can begin by examining lenses. Nikon’s lenses are not backwards compatible with older Nikon cameras while Canon’s are.

As a result, autofocus will not work if you use a different lens on Nikon cameras, which can be a pain. So here, your choice comes down to how you plan to use your camera in the future, whether it be upgrading eventually, or just expanding your collection of lenses as you move further into photography. If you will eventually buy a new camera and a new lens, it doesn’t matter which one you choose. However, if you want to keep your lenses and the ability to autofocus, Canon slr cameras are more compatible with older and third party lenses.

On the other hand, Nikon has done a lot of work to ensure that when you take a picture with a flash you get the results you want. Their “Creative Lighting System” is featured on more professional styles and is worth noting if you want to get serious about your photography.

Ultimately, these competitors are reliable and have been in the camera business for years. A lot of people boil their choice down to brand loyalty. But if you’re just buying your first camera, it’s important to do your research before you choose a side.

Should I Use A Case For My Nikon Cameras?

2010-02-15T08:31:00.000-05:00

I’m a messy person. Ask my mom... Really. I can never keep things in one place. I lost 7 cell phones and 5 iPods. So to be honest, when I went to shop digital cameras, I knew that I was going to spend in the high hundreds for a cool new DSLR, so I also decided that this is definitely something I would want to take good care of.

So I bought myself a small carrier case that I take when I go to local places and I a larger carrier case for all my memory cards, tripods and lenses when I go on a big trip. The main point is to keep your Nikon cameras or Canon SLR cameras safe. Sure, it's a convenience as well, but it’s mainly used to keep all of your equipment in one place and your camera safe from breaking, getting lost, getting bumped around, getting scratched and possibly getting stolen.

So yes, if your camera means a lot to you, like mine does me, then you will definitely want to use a case. These cases come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, colors, types of materials, etc. My local case is just a simple fabric imposed case with a lot of cushion around it. My travel case is like Kevlar! You could shoot that case and my camera wouldn't be wounded!

If you’re planning to shop digital cameras, Nikon cameras or Canon SLR Cameras then visit www.Photo4Less.com today!

How Can I Take Better Photos at Night with My Nikon Cameras?

2010-02-08T09:19:00.000-05:00

We've all seen beautiful night photographs — those works of art that capture the stars or city lights. However, if you're just getting started, replicating these effects on your own can be difficult. Here are some tips to help improve your night photography:

At night, it's all about exposure. It doesn't matter if you are using Nikon cameras or Canon SLR cameras, any model will come with an exposure option. Exposure controls the amount of light that enters the camera, so a longer exposure time (or shutter speed) means a brighter picture.
Next, you need to know when to use a flash — or a flashlight. A flash is useful for lighting up everything in the immediate area of the camera, while a flashlight (held by a friend, ideally) can spotlight a specific area.
Since light is such a big deal, another tool to consider is a lens hood. This reduces lens flares by blocking light from sources outside the frame of your photo.

But beyond these specifics, remember that at its heart photography is all about trial and error. You've got a digital camera after all — why not use up a few frames experimenting?

3 Free Photo Sharing Sites You Must Check Out After You Shop Digital Cameras

2010-02-02T15:39:00.003-05:00

Whether you’re a Nikon cameras or Canon SLR cameras enthusiast, a point and shooter, or you rock your first Mickey Mouse wind-up camera from grade school, you probably are more than happy to show off your photos to anyone with pair of working eyes. If you can’t find anyone to exhibit your masterpieces to, there’s a special place where millions of strangers are more than willing to check them out—The almighty Internet! Here are 3 photo sharing sites that could work for you.

Flickr

Flickr is awesome. In terms of features, functionality, and its massive popularity, it is the top photo sharing site on the web to date. The only downside is the storage capacity limits for free accounts, but for a small price you can upgrade. Unlimited storage is only $30 a year!

Zooomrr

Zooomrr is like Flickr’s equally cool sister, that doesn’t get nearly as much attention. Although feature-rich and has no storage limit for free accounts, it still hasn’t caught on with the cool kids as strongly as Flickr has, but it’s definitely worth checking out.

Picasa

Picasa, part of the Google brand, is another photo sharing that hasn’t quite caught up to Flickr in terms of popularity but has really great features like robust photo sharing, an incredible photo search engine, and 1GB of free photo storage. Not a bad deal at all.

If you’re feeling left out because you don’t have a digital camera, don’t worry--you can shop digital cameras like Nikon cameras, Canon SLR cameras and more at Photo4less.com

Can I Match Up Any Lens For My Nikon Cameras?

2010-01-25T06:44:00.000-05:00

When you originally bought your digital camera, it probably came with interchangeable lenses. One of the lenses was probably already on the body of the camera and you might have luckily received a second lens included with the price. If you started doing your photography, and you've taken a few courses, and you've done some research, you might begin to notice that there is an array of lenses available to you. These lenses are superb for different kinds of photography such as wide lens, panoramic, macro, etc.

But, can you really use Nikon cameras lens with a Canon slr cameras or visa versa? Sadly, I would love to say yes, but this just isn't the case! If you don't want to run into any compatibility problems, it's a really good idea to match up your lens manufacturer with your camera manufacturer. Unless you get an adapter but that’s a different story altogether. So if you have something like Canon SLR cameras and you find a really cheap Olympus Macro lens you really have been wanting to buy - don't do it!

Pay the few bucks more and get the right lens for the right camera. There are a few brands out there that supposedly work with various brands of cameras, but I'm still not sure I would trust it when I shop digital cameras and lenses!

Do I Have To Catalog And Organize My Photos?

2010-01-18T08:26:00.000-05:00

Even the laziest person will become addicted to archiving, cataloging and organizing their photos. It's just something that you will feel like you HAVE to do. It's not something you always need to do, no. But if you take a lot of photos with your Nikon cameras or Canon SLR cameras (digital), travel a lot, use a lot of different pieces of equipment or cameras, or you sell photography for a living, this is going to be an important aspect! There is one main thing you can do in order to organize and stay organized. Since no one expects you to buy a new laptop or a new drive for every single subject, you can instead look into getting cataloging software.

This is a program you can install right on your computer or HDD drive and every single time you "upload" photos to your drive you can set the photo(s) in a specific format, file, and name. You can even archive these photos so that they stay in the old folders rather than upfront with the new ones. I've heard some really cool and some really scary archiving stories from photographers. This is simply a MUST do, especially when selling photographs. One guy I talked who said he had a very large portfolio on his site - could be compared to one of those stock images sites.

He had a client contact him about one photo in particular of an African Safari he went on, with a particular type of animal in the background, particular sun, trees, etc. Something that simply couldn't be copied EVER again. The client offered $10,000 for the photo. Guess what? He never archived it, hence he never saved it as "important", hence it got deleted when he was doing spring cleaning. So the guy didn't get the $10k, and the client didn't walk away with a nifty new picture. If you are selling - you should be archiving!

This is all about utilizing organizational skills and what is available out there in terms of helping just about anyone become and stay organized. Find the photos you need, at the time you want, with a simple click of a button or search! Shop digital cameras now to find some of the hottest cameras on the market!

What Is The Point Of Camera Accessories?

2010-01-11T08:24:00.001-05:00

If you are just getting into digital photography this actually is a very valid question! Isn't photography all about the camera? Why do you need all this other stuff? Well frankly, it's all about convenience, quality (making the photo better) and functionality. For something like Nikon cameras you might be able to buy a compact camera, but you also might want to buy an accessory like a strap or pouch. This is merely used as a semi-stylish way to keep your camera safely with you by your side so you can use it whenever you want.

On the other hand, for something like Canon SLR cameras you are going to have a LARGE array of accessories. To name a few you have pouches, bags, flashes, lenses, hoods and caps, tripods, lighting equipment, software, books, and so much more! Something like lighting equipment is all about taking a quality photo, whereas with something like software and books it's all about educating yourself on how your camera works, how you can take great pictures or even how to make money with photography.

As for bags and pouches, this is like the compacts in that it's a mere convenience to be out some place and have your camera with you in case you want to shoot something! I always take my Nikon cameras with me everywhere - I find that when I don't, it’s like not taking your umbrella with you - it always rains! There is always an opportunity for a superb picture and by utilizing accessories such as some of the options above for your Nikon cameras or Canon SLR cameras, you won't miss a beat! Shop digital cameras and accessories now and find your "umbrella" in the rain. Have fun!

How To Pick Out The Right Camera That is Perfect For YOU!

2010-01-04T07:22:00.001-05:00

There is an array of cameras available on the market these days as well as different types as well. If you are the type of person that doesn't like to fuss with a lot of buttons and unneeded crap, a compact camera is going to be perfect for you. These are sleek little beauties that can "point and shoot" quite easily, they can also fit into your back pocket or your purse. These also take fine pictures, though some people might not agree. My father has a compact that he bought 2 years ago, and it's amazingly clear.

The photos look like they were taken on a $5,000 piece of equipment, when really it was only $200 - 2 years ago. If you like to figure things out, don't mind a lot of direction and buttons - something like Canon SLR cameras or Nikon cameras may be the way to go for you. These are a little more confusing, take as little more time to figure out, and can end up taking some amazing photos. They are also a little more on the bulky side and probably won't fit into your Gucci purse.

The Canon SLR cameras and Nikon SLR cameras are great for the person that want to get more into the professional side of photography and doesn't necessarily just want to shoot of a few shots at parties and functions. You can shop digital cameras right on our website and find the best option for your lifestyle, needs and price!

How Can I Take Amazing Macro Shots?

2009-12-28T07:01:00.000-05:00

I really love photography in general especially while using my Nikon cameras, but what I love even more is Macro photography. If you ever take a look at a website online or a photography book that has photos, you will begin to realize how this kind of "art" has become such a favorite amongst photographers and art lovers alike. This type of shot is all about focusing up close on a subject and taking a clear and concise photo. Usually this is done with subjects that you would WANT to see up close and that stand still such as flowers, bugs, insects, birds, frogs or any other "smallish" animal or subject.

I love the whole flower macro shots, they are my favorites by far! There is ONE main guideline on how to take the best macros you can. First off, it's important (if possible) to NOT be right up on your subject. This is more about comfort than anything else, although some cameras simply do not do well when it comes to being close to a subject - especially "macro" close! Some cameras won't allow for this and you have to be an inch or so away from the subject. I bought a Fuji cam that made me have to position myself like this.

And let me tell ya, visiting a botanical garden in the outskirts of downtown Pittsburgh, on your belly, staring at something YOU find to be particularly interesting, but no one else knows what the hell you’re looking at - takes a certain person because you get some weird looks! If you do get a camera, make sure it has interchangeable lenses and that you actually buy a macro lens. You will still have to be close to the subject, but not 1.5 inches! I seem to have a lot of luck with macro images when it comes to Nikon cameras and Canon SLR cameras, so hopefully you will too! To find some of our newest and most high grade cameras, visit our store now to shop digital cameras!

How Do I Clean My Camera The Safe Way?

2009-12-21T08:19:00.000-05:00

Cameras and camera accessories are fine pieces of machinery. This isn't something you can just spray with a hose and expect THAT to be OK. Usually, the camera lens itself should have come with one of those camera lens cloths. These cloths are manufactured to keep the quality of your camera lens up to par. It also ensures that your lens will NOT get scratched. Please do not ever use a paper towel to clean your lens. This is going to result in nothing but scratches!

If need be, you can use a liquid spray specifically for cameras. Most people suggest that you shouldn't use window cleaners because of the amount of chemicals in the liquid. Also, sometimes Windex can end up leaving streaks on your lens. Now as for your image sensor, this is something you need to be extra careful about. If you break your sensor, you’re pretty much up the creek without a paddle.

A Canon SLR cameras sensor for example, can oftentimes get dirty with things such as dirt and dust. You can tell if this has happened to your camera because you will visually see marks and spots on your photos once you print them out. By the way, if you shop digital cameras online or offline, your camera should come with a manufacturer's manual. This will include everything you need to know about your camera, including how to clean it.

If you're looking for cleaning accessories for your camera, www.photo4less.com is fully stocked and ready to deliver.

Do Mega Pixels Really Matter When You Shop Digital Cameras?

2009-12-14T08:14:00.000-05:00

Ah yet another subject that no one seems to have a concise and direct answer for! Honestly, when it comes to mega pixels and how high or low you choose from, I think it depends on what you want to use the camera for. Higher mega pixels don't necessarily mean that you are going to get a better picture. My first camera was an Olympus SP-510 UZ. It had over 10 mega pixels, fine zoom and macro. I loved that camera for a newbie such as myself. The 10 mega pixels resulted in some really fantastic and very clear pictures.

I'm a big believer in the user of the cameras well though. You could have a pro photographer and a beginner. Try and give them both 10 mega pixel Nikon cameras. The beginner may not know much about white balance, aperture, zoom, colors, settings, etc. So the beginner, even though they have the same camera, might come up short when it comes to quality. I think I'm a pretty good photographer, but in my first few months of taking photos -- I took some really bad ones! I'm talking so bright it could blind you.

Or so dark you couldn't even see what was in the photo. On the other hand, you give a professional photographer a 10 mega pixel camera and he or she knows all about settings, how they work, how to adjust them so you get the best benefits and he or she could take an amazing photo. It's not because of the camera necessarily, it's the hands that the camera is in. So as far as worrying about camera mega pixels for Nikon cameras or Canon SLR cameras - you really should be looking at your own level of experience instead of the actual mega pixels themselves. Shop digital cameras online to find the perfect camera for your level.

Shop Digital Cameras Online For ALL Your Needs!

2009-12-07T15:15:00.001-05:00

The cool thing about any camera is that you have choices between your expertise and what camera to choose from. For example, if you are just starting to get into photography or you want a small and simple camera to shoot at functions, parties and activities you might want to consider something like compact Nikon cameras. Or if you are an amateur and know the minimal basics of how a camera works, various functions, how to load the camera with various speeds and settings, you might want to consider Canon SLR cameras.

There is a camera to fit not only your expertise, but your personality and your needs as well. The hardest thing is choosing which camera you should get as far as quality goes. One thing I can tell you is that Nikon cameras and Canon SLR cameras are two of the TOP quality manufactures available in the photography and digital camera industry. These cameras taking amazing pictures (depending on the settings and mega pixels), they are pretty easy to use (depending on which class you choose from), and these are cameras that are going to last you a lifetime -- or more! Just remember to take care of your camera.

By the way if you get a digital SLR you can also choose from all sorts of lenses and bodies as well! When you look at our site to shop digital cameras you are going to find "whole" cameras (body and lens), just bodies and just lenses. The lenses are additionally options for things such as zoom, wide zoom, panoramic and macro.

Nikon Cameras Versus Canon SLR Cameras; Which Is The Best?

2009-11-23T08:30:00.000-05:00

I'm not a professional so I can't give you a professional opinion. What I can do is give you an experienced opinion between these two fantastic brands. First and foremost; Canon SLR cameras and Nikon cameras are TWO of the best, most bought, most popular and most innovative camera brands you can come in to contact with. Not only do amateurs use these brands, but so do professionals as well. They are both very functional and very easy to use. If you are finding that you do have problems with how to use the camera, there are actually free classes that you can take online.

The Nikon cameras and Canon SLR cameras also produced amazing prints. Depending on how well you know how to work the camera, pick the right calculations for options like shutter speed, ISO, and aperture you could come up with the most brilliant looking photo. It's going to look like something that came out of a magazine!

As far as which camera is considered the best of the best? It's really hard to say. It's not like choosing between apples and oranges. It’s like choosing between a tangerine and a navel. Both of them have some amazing attributes, they are both in the same price range, they both offer incredible results. In the end, what's considered the best of the best isn't something you are going to find by talking to someone. Instead, you will most likely have to find some reviews online, talk to a few different photography groups, shop digital cameras online - see who says what. If worse comes to worse you could always buy one, and rent the other one and compare them yourself!

Digital Cameras; Where Can I Find These?

2009-11-16T08:17:00.000-05:00

When you are looking to buy or find a new camera such as Nikon cameras or Canon SLR cameras - the best place you can look to shop digital cameras is right online. I would think this would be pretty clear by now when it comes to shopping and saving money, but if it's not - here we go! Shop digital cameras online is going to allow for a multiple selection of choices, cameras, and accessories. The best cameras I have found and that are still in my possession are those in which I have found online.

Most of the stores I have shopped at offline, seem to be interested in one thing and one thing only - money! However, with a lot of these online stores, they are ready and willing to answer any question you might have about the specific camera. It doesn't matter if its Nikon cameras or Canon SLR cameras or any other brand out there. They are professionals! They will answer your questions you have!

www.Photo4Less.com is more than just an online retailer. They are camera experts and visiting their site you’ll find tons of info regarding any particular camera you are looking for: how it works, how long the battery lasts, what quality of pictures it takes, how well it functiones, etc. This way you can buy the camera that truly has the quality you want, so you can really get a better feel for what digital SLR is all about!

Are You Into Photography? Have You Thought You Switching From Film To Digital?

2009-11-09T09:00:00.001-05:00

I know a lot of people go back and forth on the debate of which is better: film or digital. I think both options have different benefits and positives. First and foremost film is always going to be more work, but when you can actually get the photo right, it's going to look amazing. Plus, you can do the true black and white features which are always stunning! On the other hand, digital cameras take very little work, they are easy to use, you don't have to deal with film or developing film and guess what?

They have a black and white option on most digital cameras that looks JUST as good as film! It's going to obviously depend on the person. Some people are really old school, and they only believe in film cameras making the best pictures. Then, there are those of us that love technology, live in the year 2009 and we know that these cameras are amazing! You can find all kinds of different brands like Nikon cameras or Canon SLR cameras. You can find different colors; black, white, silver, hot pink, yellow.

You can find different options; SLR, compact, large format, zoom, fine zoom, macro, etc. You can't exactly do this with a film camera now can ya!?! Nope! For the best cameras most people are going to suggest that you shop digital cameras online. Visit www.photo4less.com where you are going to be able to find the camera you really want, with the options you need at a sweet price you desire!

Do you have a photography hobby? Do you need a New Camera?

2009-11-06T11:42:00.003-05:00

Photography in general can be an amazing activity or hobby to get into. Its fun, it makes you feel good inside, and it's a way to show your creative side. You are going to need a few items in order to get started. The main things that most people will buy when they first get into photography are: a camera, case, memory card, tripod. I think these are the generalized items you should be taking a look at right now. If and when you get more involved in photography, then you can go on to buy even more things like different macro lenses, flashes, and a bigger and better camera!

My first camera I bought when I was dabbling in photography was an Olympus SP-510 UZ. I ended up doing a lot of research before I found the one that would really fit my budget, but that would also fit my level of use as well. Obviously you want to get a nice camera, but you also don't want to be disinterested 6 months from now wondering why you bought a $1200 camera! Some of the best cameras you can find online are Nikon cameras and Canon SLR cameras.

In fact, these cameras along with Olympus, Fuji and Sony are considered some of the best cameras in the world. If you want to find these digital cameras - I would NOT suggest looking in an offline store. Oftentimes they really jack up the price more than they should be. Instead, shop digital cameras online! You are going to find a multitude of options, brands, and a camera that is truly going to fit what you are going to use it for!

Make your camera battery last even longer!

2009-10-27T11:39:00.003-04:00

Last time we discussed how can you save camera battery life. Well, we hope you’ve been trying to and this week we’ll even throw in some extra tips for you. Like what do you do if you’re stuck in the middle of the desert with one battery left, and it’s half empty? I’d say you should look for water and stop wasting your time thinking about photos, but still here are a few things that might work.

Sometimes we tend to forget that every click on any button consumes some amount of energy. One of the power threatening functions is "continues focus." Of course that you should focus but only when you are planning to take a photo and minimize the pressing half down thingy - it awakes every single part of the camera and wastes a lot of battery power.

Using flash is also a major power drainer so try to avoid this as much as possible. Choose higher ISO or use an external flash with its own batteries instead.

But the best tip we can give is carry another battery. That way you won’t have to think about your camera power consumption all day long and just have fun shooting.

But you don't have an extra battery? No more excuses! www.photo4less.com is fully stocked and ready to deliver every camera accessory you're looking for.

How to make your camera battery last longer

2009-10-20T15:46:00.000-04:00

There’s nothing more annoying than missing a shot because the camera’s battery just died on you. Digital photography is a blessing indeed, but the short life of a battery can be a pain.

So what can you do? How can you make your camera battery last longer? First of all you can start minimizing the use of features that take up extra energy.

Turn off the LCD screen and use the viewfinder instead. Not only it will make your battery last longer, but it will also make your pictures look better. If you must use the LCD screen, adjust your camera settings to economy mode. The screen will appear darker but the battery will last longer.

Another key factor in battery power consumption is the uncontrollable urge to preview and review pictures. Stop it! You have tons of free space on your 754 gigabyte memory card so keep the photo viewing for home. Look at the pictures on the LCD when you need to work on your composition and not when you want to get another laugh out of your wasted friend photo.

Want to get that perfect photo? Looking for the right light and the right speed? An extra battery? www.photo4less.com is fully stocked and ready to deliver your purchase.

How to Find Discount Camera Accessories

2009-10-13T12:57:00.000-04:00

Professional photography never ends in buying a camera. It just starts there.

After you’ve bought a really nice DSLR you start looking for lenses, flashes, tripods, teleconverters, memory cards and software, so your pictures will come out truly amazing.

But hunting for professional camera accessories can get a bit pricey, especially when turning to the specialty shops. True, the experience you can get at a pro-equipment store is amazing. It’s a true photographer’s heaven. Still these stores usually sell their merchandise at very high prices. And we don’t like high prices. Now I’m not saying you should avoid these stores, not at all, you can get valuable information and get your questions answered. But when you get your mind set on a product you like, the best thing to do is to shop for it outside.

Online stores and auction sites are usually the best places to buy professional camera equipment. If you are not looking for the newest or shiniest model (I mean seriously, is there something wrong with older lens model?) you can get yourself quite a deal online. Pro-shops usually keep only the most updated models while shopping online you can practically find anything. And when considering that online retailers have no rent and almost no staff to pay for – you can understand why prices can get dirt cheap.

So when looking for discount cameras and discount camera accessories you know that there is only one place to turn to and that’s www.photo4less.com!

Want to know the secret of the perfect grandma gift? Read on...

2009-10-08T14:37:00.005-04:00

Every holiday grandma gets a sweater from all of us. Well, sometimes it’s a necklace, or something for the kitchen but let me tell you this, last time I was looking to buy a present for grandma, I actually discovered the perfect grandma gift of all times.

Wanna take a guess? What grandmas like to do most? It’s easy – look at pictures. So??? It’s a digital frame! Yes! Believe me, the digital photo frame will make your granny so happy… I mean… as soon as she understands the concept, the digital frame will become her new favorite hobby. Check it out, YouTube is full with grandmothers, unwrapping this futuristic marvel.

When you get one of these digital photo frames for your grandmother, just make sure it is fully automatic. Granny doesn’t need any complicated devices and don’t even think of trying to explain what the buttons do. Just hang it on the wall with preloaded family pictures and grandma will love it more than the weekly bingo night.
Visit www.photo4less.com and browse through our huge digital photo frame sale section. Make your grandma happy – it’s priceless!

Nikon AF-S 35mm F/1.8 Lens. "Winning combination of high image quality, large maximum aperture and low price"

2009-09-30T12:11:00.006-04:00

The prime lens is a lens with fixed focal length. While zoom lens has a variable focal length, the prime lens is less versatile, but offers superior results and optical quality, in a small and cheaper package.

The fixed focal lens design is much simpler than zoom lens and offers a larger aperture than most zoom lenses, an important feature while shooting in low light conditions.

Take a look at the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX lens. This lens produces an angle of view similar to what a 50mm lens would produce on a full-frame/FX camera and thus functions as a "normal" lens. Prior to the digital explosion, most shooters would begin their exploration into the world of photography with a "normal" lens with a large maximum aperture.
A lens of this type is the traditional standby for low light shooting, careful composition, and street shooting. This 35mm f/1.8 Nikkor lens recreates that experience for DX format shooters who have been seeking a comparable "normal" lens.

Nikon AF-S 35mm F1.8G, dpreview, Iso 1600, F1.8

This lens is highly recommended by dpreview.com for “its winning combination of high image quality, large maximum aperture and low price” and is available at www.photo4less.com

How to take low light pictures or night pictures without looking like zombie

2009-09-21T08:17:00.001-04:00

The main problem that most digital camera users complain about is the impossibility of taking pictures in low light conditions. Suddenly, grandma looks like a zombie. Your best friend looks like he’s been bitten by a vampire, and the pictures from last night’s party just look blurry, and not because of the booze. How to take low light pictures?

Night Mode – The simplest, most obvious way to take a picture at night is to move your camera’s dial to the Night Mode. Yes, I know, it doesn’t work… It takes an hour for the camera to make a picture and it comes out all blurry. The Night Mode will not work unless you use a tripod or just place the camera on a steady surface and take a picture of a static object. Yes, I know your kids are not static. That’s why you should go for the ISO option.

ISO – this is the standard for a film’s sensitivity to light and since your digital camera has no film, you can manually change the light sensitivity settings by using the ISO option. Choose between ISO 800, 1000, or higher to get more and more light sensitivity and there is no need to use a flash. Pictures taken at low light using the ISO feature will look more natural, although a little noisy. Still, it beats the flash in looks and feel.

Get the right Camera –Some cameras perform much better at night and doing some research, or putting an extra hundred bucks, can help you save a lot of frustration.

Want to get that perfect photo? Looking for the right light and the right speed? www.photo4less.com is fully stocked and ready to deliver your purchase. Even in low light settings.

Panasonic introduces new Micro Four Thirds Camera - Lumix GF1

2009-09-14T08:32:00.002-04:00

The Micro Four Thirds system seems to be the future of photography. This method cuts the mirror as the camera’s middle man and gets the image through the lens, straight to the sensor, which allows camera manufacturers to produce a professional DSLR camera, in smaller, compact point and shoot package. We’ve seen the revolutionary Olympus EP-1 and now Panasonic announced its own new micro four thirds camera - the Lumix DMC-GF1.
The Lumix GF1 is basically the Lumix G1 or GH1, but in a much smaller package. The design is quite simple and straightforward. The G1 will offer the built-in flash and an optional electronic view finder that many found missing in the EP-1. It will also offer interchangeable lens system like in other DSLRs in the market and 12.1 megapixel photos, including HD video recording. On the back of the camera you’ll find a 3-inch LCD screen with 461,000 pixel quality.

Panasonic is about to release the camera in October at a suggested retail price of $899.95 which will get you the camera and a kit lens.

If it’s a new camera you are looking for, bigger lens, flashes, filters, and even dark room equipment – www.photo4less.com is fully stocked and ready to deliver your purchase.

Different types of Camera Lenses - from the Wide Angle Lens to the Macro Lens

2009-09-08T11:15:00.005-04:00

Many times in photography, the lens is more important than the camera itself. There are many different types of camera lenses and each and every lens will give you different results. As a professional photographer, you should know each type of lens and be able to decide which lens will work best with your subject, light and composition.

Here are the most common types of camera lenses:

Wide Angle Lens - Like its name, wide angle lens can take in a wider field than usual. This is a useful lens when taking landscapes and views. The wide angle’s common focal length is 24mm and 28mm.

Telephoto Lens – is a long focal length lens. It’s great in making objects in the far horizon look close and magnified. The telephoto can also show much more details than the human eye, reduce depth of field and solely focus on the subject, creating clear and vivid images.

Macro Lens – The macro lens can take extreme close ups. The quality is very high and a photo can be taken from a distance that will not scare away shy subjects.

Looking for a new lens? A better lens? Want to get that perfect photo? Looking for the right light and the right speed? Visit www.photo4less.com for all of your photography needs. If it’s a new camera, bigger lens, flashes, filters, and even dark room equipment – www.photo4less.com is fully stocked and ready to deliver your purchase.

Panasonic DMC-ZS1K - The Ultimate Compact Digital Camera with 12x zoom

2009-09-01T13:38:00.003-04:00

One of the best things about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1 is the advanced iA mode. If you just love to, well, point and shoot, then this camera is the perfect one for you. When you set the camera to iA mode, the camera does everything. It automatically determines the most suitable Scene mode and helps correct blurring, focus, and brightness problems. With iA mode, it's easy to get beautiful, clear results.

Once you put your trust in the hands of the iA you’ll enjoy everything from face recognition, AF tracking, intelligent ISO and exposure control, and even intelligent scene selector, both in photography and movies.

This Lumix also features a brilliant lens from the legendary Leica with 12x optical zoom. The body is so compact that you’ll never imagine you actually own a point and shoot with a zoom lens that lets you shoot everything from sweeping vistas at the 25mm wide-angle setting to dynamic 300mm telephoto shots. The lens system's exquisite rendering ability lets you capture even the subtle nuances of the sights and scenes in your travels.

The Power of 12x Zoom

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1 is now featured www.photo4less.com with many other professional and amateur cameras and equipment. Go on, check it out, you won't be sorry!

Bring your photos back to life with the Nikon Film Scanner

2009-08-24T08:16:00.001-04:00

Film Scanner is a great feature for those of you who are still using the good old 35mm or anybody who wants to bring old and precious film back to life and need to upload, print and fix film.

This is a simple to use device that can scan images from your negatives, restore old film, and turn them into digital files. Film scanners are great with dust scratches and old film and can restore colors produce the best quality results.

The new Super Coolscan 5000 ED is a wonderful choice for professional photographers who demand both quality and speed. The film scanner got a true optical resolution of amazing 4,000 dpi and 16 bit A/D conversion - the 5000 ED provides amazing image quality, amazingly fast.

An unmatched scanning speed of 20 seconds per image brings desktop scanning to an entirely new level. Optional adapters enhance productivity further by enabling the automatic scanning of mounted slides and uncut rolls of film. The features, quality and speed found here make the Super Coolscan 5000 ED ideal for imaging professionals needing quality scans at the fastest speed possible.

The Cool Scan 5000 is is now featured on www.photo4less.com with many other professional and amateur cameras and equipment. Come on, you know you want those pictures from the prom...

Benefits of using External Flash

2009-08-17T08:04:00.000-04:00

I love low light and night photography but I never use the built-in camera flash. It’s always turned off. I prefer higher ISO and more grainy looking photos than having my subjects look like red-eyed zombies and seem unrealistically flattened.

But sometimes, you just can’t do without a flash so I bought myself an external flash to fit on my DSLR and it works great. First of all it tilts and swivels, so you can adjust it according to your subject and make the light softer. It’s got a lot of power so it can light up a much larger area and makes the photo seem more natural rather than a small flash that lights up only a certain area.

Take a look at the Nikon SB-900 Speedlight. This is Nikon's flagship flash unit, and the most advanced in the Speedlight range. Its automated zoom head has been expanded to cover 17mm to 200mm lenses (in 35mm/FX format), and can cover this range in just 1.2 seconds. This flash now lets you select from three light distribution patterns: Standard, Center-weighted, and Even. It will also automatically detect if it is connected to a DX or FX format camera, and adjust itself accordingly.

For a wide selection of shoe mount flash visit www.photo4less.com and bring your subject back to life.

Teleconvert your Photography

2009-08-10T08:00:00.003-04:00

A teleconverter is basically a secondary lens which can be mounted between your camera and the lens. What does it do? It increases your lens’s focal length.

Take a look at the Tamron SP AF Pro teleconverter that features improved optical construction, and is designed to be used with lenses that are f/2.8 and of focal lengths of 90mm or greater.

The 2x teleconverter (also known as a tele-extender) will multiply the focal length of your existing lens by 2x, and will cut back the amount of light by 2 f/stops. For example, using a 2x teleconverter with a 300 mm lens will effectively increase the focal length to 600 mm. A lens set to f/2.8 will now be f/5.6.

Taken with Tamron Teleconverter

So should you buy a bigger lens instead of a converter? Depends. A teleconverter will make focusing harder and the optical quality of your lens will also be lower. Teleconverters are not recommended for lenses wider than 50mm, e.g. 28-105mm. However, full AF operation is only possible with lenses with open aperture of f/2.8 or brighter.

There are various teleconverter lenses available online at www.photo4less.com so log on and get closer.

Performance meets Perfection - Gitzo Mountaineer Tripod

2009-08-03T08:08:00.002-04:00

When Gitzo launched the Mountaineer tripods in 1994, they were the World’s first carbon fiber tripods. Since then, the Gitzo tripods set the standard for performance and quality.

Well, it's about time you started taking some serious photographs and experience the wonders of the tripod. No more excuses regarding how heavy and bulky a tripod is! Now it is your chance to take that perfect picture, with slow shutter speeds and low aperture.

Just look at the amazing features!

		G-LOCK G-Lock is the new Gitzo leg locking system. The locking mechanism has been completely redesigned in order to achieve a 20% increase in rigidity, faster operation and stronger, safer locking. G-Lock’s special design also provides a “gravity lock” effect: the higher the load applied vertically to the leg, the stronger the lock.

		REVERSIBLE COLUMN The rapid column can easily be inverted for an alternative shooting angle or low level macro work.

		ALR - We have introduced a new Anti Leg Rotation system, which means the tripod can be opened in less than 15 seconds. Simply loosen all the twist locks on each leg at the same time, then pull the leg down and tighten the locks individually.

What do you get? Take a look:

You can find a wide selection of the Gitzo tripods at www.photo4less.com with many other professional and amateur cameras and equipment. Go on, get that perfect photo.

Rebel with a DSLR: Review of the Canon EOS Rebel T1i

2009-07-27T09:00:00.003-04:00

Looking to swipe that old point and shoot of yours to something more professional, but not ready to jump into the big league yet? Here’s the perfect camera for you.
The Canon EOS Rebel T1i is the 6th generation of Canon's popular entry-level DSLR camera series and it improves upon earlier Rebels by incorporating many features that up till now could only be found on pricier DSLRs.

Plus, you’ll get the opportunity to record a full HD video, which means that this baby is placed among the few DSLRs currently available that can capture true high-resolution video, just like a pro camcorders.

You also get anti-static coatings on the low-pass filter to keep it shmutz-free and an ISO rating from 100 through 3200 in standard mode, and from 6400 to 12,800 in expanded mode, that will allow you to shoot a decent picture in a professional dark-room.

Here's to a picture worth looking at:

And a closer look at Canon EOS Rebel T1i:

By the way, if one day you’ll decide to go pro, Canon offers you over 60 EF and EF-S lenses and a selection of EX-series Speedlites to satisfy all of your visual and creative needs.

The Canon EOS Rebel T1i is now featured on www.photo4less.com with many other professional and amateur cameras and equipment. Go on, get that perfect photo.

Get a "close" look with the Canon EF-S 18-200mm

2009-07-20T09:04:00.002-04:00

You’re standing on the top of a mountain and really interested in taking a photo of the boat that’s down there at the lake? Why won't you take a look through the Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens and photo the boat's captain while you're at it. It is a compact and lightweight wide zoom range lens that combines powerful performance with high image quality.

This lens offers the equivalent of 29-320mm in 35mm format. It is ideal for use as a general-purpose zoom lens, providing coverage from a wide angle to a telephoto perspective. What does it mean? Take a look at these pictures:

18 mm

200 mm

What else? You’ll get a 4 stop Image Stabilizer that extends low light options to previously unavailable levels. A superior image quality and optimized Super Spectra lens coatings that will get you those true colors and vivid hi-fidelity images that you are looking for.

Take a look at this video in order to understand the real power of the Canon EF-S:

The Canon EF-S 18-200mm is now featured on www.photo4less.com with many other professional and amateur cameras and equipment. Go on, take a "closer" look.

Lumix FX500 - A compact touch screen with a Leica lens, who needs more?

2009-07-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

I always like to take a picture with a Lumix camera. They feel nice to touch and the Leica lenses deliver superior results. That’s why I had such a good time examining the DMC-FX500 Lumix compact digital camera. With both a bright F2.8 25mm wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens and a 5x zoom, this is one camera that does it all.

First thing you notice is the cool hybrid control system that combines joystick control with touch-screen operation. Another great thing about the camera is that it also offers manual control just like an SLR camera. You can control the aperture and shutter speed by touching the screen with your fingers.

The sophisticated lens system lets you to capture dramatic images with an impressive sense of breadth and depth —truly remarkable for such a compact camera. I found the 5x zoom great for small or distant subjects, and there's even an Extra Optical Zoom function that boosts zoom power to 8.9x although it lowers the resolution to 3-megapixels.

Take a look at this helpful video review of the Lumix DMC-FX500:

The Lumix DMC-FX500 is available at www.photo4less.com with many other professional and amateur cameras and equipment. Go on, check it out, you won't be sorry!

Unleash your Potential with the new Nikon D90

2009-07-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

If you’re looking for a little more than just a camera to take pictures of your kids with, you should defiantly check out the the Nikon D90 SLR Digital Camera. They can’t really get better than this mean camera with its 12.3-megapixel High resolution LCD display. This is the camera that can give your photos an extra kick and its one-button Live View, will provides you, the photo enthusiast, with the image quality and performance to pursue your own vision while still being intuitive enough for use as an everyday camera.

Another great feature is the camera’s superior abilities to take photos in low lighting. You get a low noise across a wide ISO sensitivity range, and significantly accelerate camera performance on all levels.

If you also a kind of a family guy, you’ll be happy to welcome the new D-Movie mode, allowing for the first time, an interchangeable lens SLR camera that is capable of recording 720p HD movie clips, ready for the next video generation.

Here's a short video review of the D90:

The Nikon D90 SLR Digital Camera is now featured on www.photo4less.com with many other professional and amateur cameras and equipment. Go on, check it out, you won't be sorry.

Welcome to Photo4Less Blog. Your #1 Photography Stop

2009-07-01T17:47:00.001-04:00

Want to get that perfect photo? Looking for the right light and the right speed? We know you care about photography and we know that you want to work with professionals - you’ve just came into the right place. For over a decade www.photo4less.com is best known for providing cameras and equipment to the professional photographers industry. We are always ready to answer all of your photography needs, if it’s a new camera, bigger lens, flashes, filters, and even dark room equipment – we are fully stocked and waiting to deliver your purchase.

Hey wait! Although we specialize in professional photography equipment, it doesn’t mean that we forgot about you - the amateur photographer, we carry a large selection of all kinds of amateur cameras and equipment as well, and we have the best prices on the web.

By the way, you may be surfing our store online, but this doesn’t mean you can not enjoy a personal customer service experience. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is always ready to help you find what you’re looking for. And if you don’t know what you’re looking for, we'll be happy to throw in some ideas for you.

Visit us at www.photo4less.com and don’t forget to check our blog for photography news, tips and tricks.