Choosing Good Batteries for Digital Cameras

The power need for digital cameras is very high. As they get smaller in size, the challenge has been to come up with a battery that would meet those requirements and still be small enough to fit into the smaller digital cameras.

No one would be happy with a camera that didn't have enough power to run it for a reasonable amount of time. There are two divisions of batteries for digital cameras, and these divisions are very broad:

* Off-the-shelf batteries While a few cameras have AAA batteries, AA (or CR2 batteries) are the more common in use. These are lithium-based and are intended for only single use; they are also commonly seen in camcorders. The alkaline battery, which is nonrechargeable, provides only enough power for a very short time in most digital cameras. Most photographers have moved to the AA nickel metal hydride batteries along with a charger; these provide the necessary power and can be easily recharged. Mid-range and low-end cameras may use off the shelf batteries, but only a few cameras (DSLR) accept them.

* Proprietary battery formats These are the second type of battery. Specifically built to the manufacturer's specifications, they can be either OEM or aftermarket replacement parts.  Most of the proprietary batteries are lithium ion. The battery life begins to degrade after a certain number of charges, usually about 500 cycles; yet they are very powerful for their size. Because of this, both high-end professional cameras and consumer models at the low end have lithium ion batteries.

Digital photographers, both professionals and amateurs, will find many types of batteries available; all will be within the two categories mentioned above. It is possible to find as many opinions about the type of battery to use as there are photographers using them. Only the consumer can actually make the decision about which they choose.

Action Photography Tips & Guide


Of all the kinds and styles of photography being practiced today, sports photography is probably the most exciting—not to mention the most difficult—of all. Since this action photography involves so much speed and action, photographing the subjects or players would require more than the usual knack for good angles but also the strength to endure physical limitations during the shoot.

Sports photography usually include shots that are taken during the game or while the subjects are in their respective field. Aiming to “freeze” moments during the actual event, sports photographers should be equipped with the right photography equipment, trained with enduring tenacity, and fueled with an overwhelming desire to capture each moment and emotion at their best.

PHOTOGRAPHING DIFFERENT KINDS OF SPORTS

The best thing about sports photography is that the photographer can freeze a single moment that contains pure and raw emotion and share it with the public in print. If you’re into photography and quite interested in taking adrenaline-pumping shots, you should familiarize yourself with different kinds of sports first. Since each sport varies, the styles and techniques used in capturing and freezing each moment also vary.

If you are already in the field taking photos, it is a must that you have a brief background about the sport you are covering. Knowledge in the fundamentals of coaching style, sport rules, and players will help you identify their most interesting angles. It is also a must to identify your “safety” (a shot that is easy to shoot and can be published if you don’t get good photos all throughout).

Here are some basic sports photography guidelines fit for common sports:

1. Baseball. Most seasoned sports photographers would agree that baseball is one sport that is hardest to shoot because of its unpredictability. Make sure that you get your safety first before getting experimental shots.

2. Basketball. Unlike baseball, this is the easiest sport to shoot because you only have to focus on two subjects: the player who handles the ball and the net. But its simplicity limits you to different angles, so make sure you get plenty of shots to choose from.

3. Football. This is another easy sport to shoot but it is considered as the most equipment intense sports because it would require waiting for the perfect shot. Although it’s easy to get safeties, it’s still up to you to produce action shots that would be a stand up.

4. Soccer and Hockey. Because of the speed and sudden movements involved in these sports, auto focus cameras are recommended.

5. Volleyball. Although it is one of the rarely covered sports events, volleyball is also one of favorites because dramatic shots can be derived all throughout. Since moves in the sports are quite tricky, make sure that you turn your camera’s auto focus on.

6. Golf. It’s hard to shoot photos during the game due to the nature of the game itself. What you can do is to camp at one location and take shots as players pass by or use a cart to follow the individual players.

7. Track and Field. Though access can be limited, this is one sport that is fun to shoot because movements are predictable and easy to shoot. All you need is good timing.

8. Gymnastics and Figure Skating. One basic rule in these sports: NO FLASH. Since they involve individuals performing, the use of flash is restricted because it distracts the players. The major problem you’ll encounter is lighting but this can be solved once the venue is lit up.

9. Motorsports and Racing Events. These are fairly easy to photograph because you can get away with slower lenses. But since you’re far from the track, you need longer lenses for the shoot.

Underwater Camera Covers-There Are Many Options

If you are looking to buy a camera without having to deal with the hassle of underwater camera covers then there are quite a few options available to you. A lot of digital cameras now days are made to be used underwater as well as having a lot of other protective features to make them more durable for the more adventurous photographers out there.

If you are looking to buy a water proof digital camera than there are several things you should look for before making your final decision. Digital cameras are not cheap so you need to make sure to get the best one you can.

1. Sealing. The fundamental aspect of any underwater camera is the sealing used. After all, an underwater camera would be pretty worthless if water got inside of it. When looking at your potential picks make sure to pay close attention to any gaps such as USB ports or the lenses if they can be removed and swapped out. These are often weak points in underwater camera sealing and can spell doom for your picture taking if they fail.

2. Picture quality. When it comes to modern digital cameras they all have a fairly standard photo resolution of around five megapixels. Odds are this will be plenty for your photography needs. You may be inclined to get a lower resolution model to save yourself a few dollars but in the long run the amount of money saved really is not worth it. Conversely, getting a higher resolution will probably not be worth the extra cost unless you are looking to take professional photographs.

3. Size and appearance. For conventional cameras the size and appearance are entirely for aesthetics, but when it comes to underwater cameras that do not use underwater camera covers, they can play a larger role. You need to make sure the camera's size and shape conform with your swimming or diving style so that you can hold onto it easily when underwater. Also, a lot of underwater photographers tend to get brightly colored cameras so they are more easily spotted in the dark.

4. Check it's rating. Not all underwater cameras are the same and some will be more tolerant than others. For example, an underwater camera may have a rating of 8 which will make it good to use in shallow water. However for deeper dives you will want a higher rated camera. This is simply because the camera with a lower rating will not be as tolerant of the water pressure and would break if it went too deep.

5. Max depth. Going off that, all underwater cameras (even those with underwater camera covers) have a maximum depth at which the water pressure will be too great and cause them to break. Make sure you check your camera to know just how far down it can safely go.

6. Beware of chemicals. There are a fair few chemicals out there that can damage your cameras waterproofing such as chlorine and petrol. Make sure to keep it away from harmful chemicals and only use it in fresh or saltwater bodies of water. If you want a camera to use in the pool, try a waterproof disposable camera instead.

The Top Three Underwater Cameras Available

The introduction of underwater digital cameras has made it possible for divers and under water enthusiasts to practice the art of photography in oceans, seas and pretty much everywhere underwater. They are also designed to protect the internals of the camera in situations where the camera might be splashed or submerged shortly, like on a boating trip.

Several manufacturers build cameras purposefully designed for underwater use, while others build shells that work with existing models, not purposely built for underwater excursions. If you do not need the professional features of a more advanced camera or have reservations against using an expensive camera for your underwater shots, you can always purchase a disposable type unit; although these cameras have softer lenses and lower sensor resolutions, which might degrade the overall quality of your photos.

The Optio W60 digital point and shoot camera by Pentax is a waterproof model. Pentax has been producing waterproof cameras for a while. This particular model sells for about $300 but can be found for less if you search around. It sports a 5x optical zoom lens that starts at 28mm wide angle with a 10 mega pixel sensor. The W60 can be used up to a maximum depth of 13 feet underwater for 2 hours. It has a convenient 2.5 inch LCD which is great for underwater use with out having to rely on a miniature viewfinder.

A more rugged designed underwater camera is the Olympus Stylus Tough 8000. Like the name implies, it certainly is tough, as it is shock proof from a drop of 6.6 feet and can be used up to a maximum depth of 30 feet underwater. Beyond this depth visibility for a photograph may be very limited anyhow, so you could say that this camera is very high spec. The camera is also freeze-proof up to -10C. Like most devices in this class, it has a wide angle lens. Best of all, the camera is priced at just under $250, which is slightly less than most of its competitors.

Canon didn't get left behind in this specialist market, unveiling their Powershot D10 for under water photography enthusiasts and hobbyists alike. Canon made their D10 not only water proof, but crash proof and freeze proof as well. The D10 will survive a "swim" to a depth of 33 feet, can be dropped from 4 feet, and can be subjected to a temperature of -10C. This little camera would not even register the abuse. The D10 has a maximum resolution of 12 megapixels with a bright 2.3 inch LCD display for easy viewing. The Powershot D10 will set you back about $320.

Kids Underwater Camera-Even Little Ones Enjoy Photography

Taking pictures is a pass time that many people out there enjoy. The joy of capturing a moment on film that will last forever can be quite amazing. But a lot of people have this notion that photo taking is for grown ups, mostly because the cameras are too sensitive for kids to handle. This is certainly a reasonable fear unless of course you buy kids underwater camera.

There are a ton of digital cameras on the market, many geared towards use by kids. With that in mind they are built tough to survive the harsh treatment of being in a child's hands. With cameras designed specifically to be used by children, there really is no reason not to allow them to partake in the fun of snapping a few shots.

Now, digital cameras are not free so you might be wondering if it really is a good idea to allow your children to run around with this piece of equipment. The answer is yes. As stated above, these digital cameras are designed with toughness in mind. We have all been kids and we all know that kids are not always the most gentle with their things, and these digital cameras benefit from that knowledge.

Kids underwater camera can obviously work when wet and underwater, but they often times other defenses against the harsh things kids can throw at them. They typically have shock protection from falls and the like. They also are more durable against grime like mud and extreme temperatures such as the cold. They can be used in virtually any environment by your child, allowing them to take pictures of whatever they fancy.

Now, even if you are considering getting a camera that your children can use, you may be inclined to get one of those toy ones. To be honest, there really is no point. You can get child-proof digital cameras for not much more then you would pay for a toy one. They are equally as durable if not more so and unlike their toy counterparts they have the added bonus of being able to be used by you should the need arise.

Why bother getting a normal camera for you and a toy for your kids when you can simply get a durable kids underwater camera that can perform all the functions you need out of your camera while still living up to the punishment your kids can dish out.

Cameras designed with kids in mind are really quite durable. You would be surprised at just how much punishment they can actually take. They have a lot of protection in place such as water proofing, dust proofing, freeze proofing, and crush proofing allowing it to survive anything your kids could possible throw at it. In fact, the Olympus Tough Stylus 8010 can literally survive being thrown thanks to it's crush proofing. Not that this is advised, mind you.

In closing, if you buy a durable camera made with your children in mind you can share your photo taking hobby with them, allowing them to explore the world of photography.

How To Select Your First Digital Underwater Camera

Buying your first digital underwater camera can definitely make you envision taking pictures in a much different light (literally and figuratively). Today, even non-waterproof cameras can be transformed into underwater cameras by way of waterproof housing and casing. Additional accessories and peripherals for underwater photography pave the way for inspiring and interesting pictures you can capture and share with friends and family.

Today's digital underwater camera is jam-packed with so much technology and new features that you just may become overwhelmed with what to look for. Consider the type of photography you prefer to do first. If it is something you wish to use to capture more casual images underwater, for example of family and friends swimming at the pool or beach, purchase a camera with face-detection tool. It'll aid you very much in catching the expression on people's faces underwater without having to zoom in on them and missing the moment.

Camera models with the tap technology like the ones from Olympus are also great to use. It enables users to merely tap the side of the camera to shoot the photograph instead of struggling about underwater for buttons to click.

For more casual pictures like family or holidays, a digital camera with face detection and tap technology are great to have. These can prove convenient when you are underwater holding your breath, and attempting to get the expression on your kids' faces when they're swimming underwater. Tap technology, available in waterproof digital cameras similar to some Olympus designs, is when a camera's side can be merely tapped to take photos instead of making you push countless buttons to take a photograph.Your favorite pictures should always matter a lot when you are in the market for the finest digital underwater camera for you personally. Will you be shooting under the surface photographs of your children as they are learning to swim in the pool? Are you a newly certified diver who wants to record your first real foray under the surface? Or do you simply love the notion of a camera that can turn into an underwater one for use during out of town trips?

It should be also essential to read up on the positives and negatives of each model to help narrow down your choices. Some could be affordable but offer fewer features compared to similar cameras. Alternatively, a digital camera could possibly be jam-packed with extras but may be way out of your budget. Learn how to weigh the positive and negative aspects of waterproof digital cameras so you can still get the right possible deal.

You'll notice lots of waterproof cameras and lenses to pick from these days. The bottom line is, you should do some reading before choosing one for yourself. In the end, the digital underwater camera that can work best for you is the one which will conform to your way of life, preferences, and price range. While you are at it, also consider useful features similar to fast shutter response, longer battery life, and lighting in low marine light especially if you want to shoot sea flora and fauna after the sun has set.

Owning a digital underwater camera can drastically change the way you are taking photos. Many think this is a tool merely intended for divers and marine life fanatics.

Cheap Underwater Camera Housing

When it comes to digital cameras there are a lot of options for you to choose from. The option becoming more and more popular are underwater cameras. No longer do you really have to rely on cheap underwater camera housing to allow you to snap photos under the sea. Now days underwater digital cameras are built to operate underwater, affording you far more versatility in your picture taking.

However even if you decide to buy yourself an underwater camera, there are still a lot of things you need to take into consideration. When you are looking at your underwater cameras, the first thing to consider is their sealing. Sealing is what allows them to operate underwater to begin with and it is the first and only line of defense should it be submerged, so you want to make sure it is top notch.

This becomes even more important on cameras with a lot of openings, such as those with removable lenses and USB ports. You want to make sure your camera has excellent sealing so that it will not break on your first dive. Sealing is also effect by the depth at which your camera is submerged. Cameras are rated based on just how deep they can go. With a cheap underwater camera housing you could only take your digital camera a few meters underwater, but with a proper underwater camera you could go much, much further.

The main concern with depth is the water pressure. Cameras are fairly fragile and it would not take much for it's sealing to break or the more sensitive parts to break. This is why you need to be aware of just how far down your camera is able to go so that you do not accidently exceed this depth and break it.

Another thing you should be aware of is it's size and shape. For most digital cameras these are merely aesthetics, maybe a little convenience issues. But with underwater cameras they become far more important as you will want to get a camera that is the right size and shape so that you can hold it easily while swimming.

If you get a camera that is too big or too small, you might drop it and recovering it could be quite the pain. This is also why you should make sure to have to strapped securely to yourself when diving.

Something else to be aware of is that underwater cameras are prone to being damaged by things like sand or chlorine. While cheap underwater camera housing can protect from this, an actual underwater camera has very little defense. It is best to keep your camera out of pools and to thoroughly clean it after every dive you make.

Underwater digital cameras can open up a whole new world of photography. All those fond moments at the beach, or especially for those who like to go diving. But even for those land lovers out there it can still be a good purchase as underwater cameras are highly durable and that water proofing may come in handy one day, and since they essentially the same price as a normal camera, there really is no reason not to buy one.