Posted on November 4, 2009 - by Brian

A Digital Photography Checklist

Digital Photography Checklist

All of us have made dumb mistakes when taking photos, only to end up with low quality, or even unusable images. Here is my personal checklist compiled from years of experience. When photographing important events such as weddings, I can not afford to make any technical mistakes. I hope this helps your own photography. Check these settings every time you begin to take photos.

1. Memory Card: Some cameras will work without a memory card: a dangerous thing because you may be shooting images but not saving them! Check to see that your camera has one, and that the card has enough storage capacity for your project. It is a good idea to re-format your card before using.

1. Resolution Setting: Always check to see that your resolution setting is appropriate for the end use of your photographs. In other words, what is the biggest print size you might make with your images? If in doubt, always shoot at the highest setting.

1. File Type: Many cameras write files in different formats, like jpeg, tiff, RAW, etc. Make sure the file type fits the use and desired quality of your photos. Jpeg is the easiest and most common file type, although RAW files are becoming more popular with serious shooters.

1. ISO Setting: You may leave your camera at the auto ISO setting, or change it manually. Evaluate the light level of the scene to decide upon the appropriate ISO. Remember, the higher the ISO, the more noise your images will have. Many pocket sized cameras have excessive noise at ISO 400 and above.

1. White Balance: The white balance (or color balance) is critical to getting a high quality image. Sometimes the auto setting works fine, but many times you must set the camera manually. Many cameras have a built-in calibration feature for creating a custom white balance.

1. Focus Setting: Where is your camera’s focus target? Make sure it is superimposed over your subject. Also check to see that you are in the appropriate focus mode for your subject (A moving subject may require a servo, or follow – focus, while a still subject needs a one – shot type focus).

1. Exposure Mode: Is the current exposure mode the most useful for your type of photo? Manual, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, etc. are all useful in different situations – choose the best one for your photo needs.

1. Aperture Setting: Is the aperture (or f-stop setting) your camera is using right for your photo? Will it give your photo the depth of field needed for your vision?

1. Shutter Speed Setting: One of the most critical, and often overlooked settings to check – Make sure your shutter speed setting is fast enough for a sharp image! Remember, camera shake ruins more photos than any other error.

10. Exposure: Take a test shot to check the exposure of the photo. Use the camera’s histogram to aid you in evaluating the image. Adjust the exposure if necessary. Also check the color balance, focus, depth of field and file type, etc.

Backlighting requires perfect exposure