New Technology For Security Cameras

September 4th, 2010 by outdoorcamera


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Video cameras are being installed in many new applications. Nanny-cams, police and home security networks, traffic jam monitors, and small-business webcams are just a few of the video monitoring devices employed by and for the average American.

A report from “Research and Markets” says that the global closed circuit television (CCTV) market grew at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 24.3% in 2007 and is forecast to grow at a CAGR of approximately 23% from 2008 to 2012.

Systems are available for the “do-it-yourself” type. Systems that can be installed with wireless transmission of the video signal helps in this regard. More sophisticated systems may require the utilization of a professional installation.

There are three types of CCTV technologies. The oldest technology units are analog systems. These systems have the lowest cost for the hardware, and are useful for some services.

The second type of CCTV is called hybrid technology. These systems capture the image with analog cameras, and convert the signals to digital format, which can be more economical if it is necessary to retain long periods of video. By digitizing the data, software manipulation of the image becomes possible.

The newest player in security cameras is the IP camera. This camera technology can be implemented anywhere where a computer network is available. Because the interface cables may be avoided, this solution can result in the lowest cost and quickest installation. This type of interface is also best when the distance between camera and host is significant.

Night vision cameras are becoming more common. There are two types of night vision cameras: those that can capture an image with little light, and those that have infrared lamps (most often IR LEDs). The distance that can be seen by an IR camera is proportionate to the output of IR light. While in infrared mode, an infrared camera will record only in black and white, but there are cameras available that can monitor with color during daylight hours. Sensors on the camera automatically switch from color recording to black and white according to the light level. Avoid using an infrared camera that is contained in a glass or acrylic front outdoor housing. Infrared light will reflect off the housing, creating glare that obscures the image.

Data storage is always a significant problem with CCTV. Video surveillance systems can be memory hogs (For example, video with resolution of 640 x 480 at 30 frames per second and I420 pixel format requires 640 x 480 x 30 x 1.5 = 13 MB data per second). For this reason, most systems include signal compression to reduce the required capacity. Even with signal compression, it will be necessary to decide on the period of data retention, and sample rate.

Video analytics is the technology of applying software techniques to the interpretation of the video image, so that a computer can filter the data, and call attention to a human operator if necessary. It is important to understand the current limitations of this technology. One should not expect that a CCTV system incorporating video analytics will replicate human perception. Video images of busy environments can be very difficult to interpret for a computer, but images that are more static can be more successfully measured. What video analytics can do is act as a “force multiplier”, allowing a single human to effectively monitor many cameras.

Security cameras provide us with an additional layer of security, and as the technology improves, this layer will continue to grow in popularity and importance.

Brian Bradshaw’s work incorporates more than 25 years working with advanced instrumentation and information technology. He specializes in designing Security Camera Systems for small and medium sized businesses in the Southwestern United States with offices in Dallas, Texas and Phoenix, Arizona. More information is available at B.V. Technology Surveillance Cameras and Video Analytics.

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A Wireless Security Camera Makes Video Surveillance Easy, Portable and Cost Effective

September 4th, 2010 by outdoorcamera


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With a wireless security camera, the walls have eyes. You can easily monitor the safety of your home or business without the complications of a wired camera system. A security camera system lets you observe various rooms or locations in your home or office.

A security camera makes video surveillance easy, portable, and cost effective.

There is a wide range of uses with a Wireless Security Camera:

(1) Watch your kids in their playroom or den. Make sure your kids are safe while you are busy with housework.

(2) Set up the wireless security camera to keep an eye on the nanny when you aren’t at home.

(3) Use one to monitor the arrival of guests on your driveway or at your front door.

(4) Watch your pets with a wireless security camera.

(5) Monitor your store or business with a wireless security camera to prevent theft or other crimes.

Security camera monitor moves through the house with you. Set the camera up in the playroom or den and keep an eye on your family when you are in different parts of the house. See and hear what’s happening with your kids with a portable color monitor right in the palm of your hand.

Wireless security camera has infrared technology, allowing you to see up to twenty feet in the dark to watch your little sleepyheads.

Security camera are sturdy enough to be used outdoors, where you can use it to observe approaching visitors or watch your kids as they play in the backyard.

Benefits of a Wireless Security Camera:

(1) Easy to set up

(2) Cost efficient personal surveillance system

(3) Transportable, can move from room to room or house to house

(4) Send signals through walls and floors

This makes video surveillance easy, portable, and cost effective. Have your eyes peeled all the time with a wireless security camera.

Ralph Winn has over 35 years of education and experience in the security industry. Are you one of the many Americans who have begun to look into improving their home security? This is an important matter and the Home Security Store offers the best protection against burglary and vandalism.

Stay up to speed with breaking security news and technology.

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Video Surveillance and Home Security

September 4th, 2010 by outdoorcamera

There are many forms of video surveillance items on the market from covert spy cameras, baby cameras, to outdoor perimeter cameras. Some home security providers have even gotten into the home video surveillance market with systems that allow you to view your home recordings online. These systems can be placed either inside the home or outside the home.

We are going to focus on cameras that can be placed in the home for surveillance. These video cameras can be used to help monitor the safety of elderly, babies, or the children with their nanny. These cameras may seem like overkill to some but they can give you the peace of mind that someone at home is safe and sound while you are at work or on a business trip so that you can focus on the things you need to instead of worrying.

Hidden cameras are a great extra safeguard in protecting your children while they are under the care of someone else. These are often referred to as “nanny cams.” Nanny cams come in various forms but are typically very small cameras that are difficult to detect. Some of these cameras even have digital video recorder capabilities to video the recordings at a later time. There are cameras that come preinstalled in mantle clocks, boom boxes, books, computer speakers, smoke detectors and even teddy bears.

Nanny cams can either record video or output video to a hidden camera system that can be accessed via the Internet. Some of these cameras even have audio capabilities. A knowledge that you could be on hidden camera keeps honest people honest.

Indoor video surveillance cameras are a great way to keep an eye on our senior loved ones who want to keep their independence by may be at risk for falling. Cameras that can be accessed via the Internet are best for this type of application. Installing cameras in frequently used rooms can be of benefit should a fall occur. Loved ones could periodically check on the senior family member without continually calling making the senior feel more independent.

Installing a camera system indoors can be a great addition to your home security system. Often you will receive window decals alerting potential intruders that they will be on camera. This is a big deterrent as potential intruders do not want to risk being identified. Cameras that are set on potential entry points that have DVR capabilities are a great way to help law enforcement personnel identify burglars and vandals.

Whether you are looking for indoor or outdoor surveillance there are many options available to you. If you have an existing home security system, inquire about the addition of video surveillance. Having a video system installed by a professional with monitoring capabilities can give you peace of mind that your home can be monitored at any time.

ADT Security is the leading provider of residential monitoring systems in the U.S. Help protect your home and family today with an alarm system from ADT, the number-one name in home security.

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CCTV Camera For Better Security System

September 3rd, 2010 by outdoorcamera

Closed circuit television is commonly known as CCTV. CCTV camera allows us to monitor and keep track on every activity. We can view and record high-risk areas to prevent theft, control inventory, increase productivity. CCTV allows remote monitoring of parking lots and building exteriors to improve employee safety.

CCTV is the use of video cameras to transmit a signal to a specific place, on a limited set of monitors. It is different from normal broadcast television in which signal is openly transmitted. CCTV is often used for surveillance in areas that may need monitoring such as banks, airports, major government institutes military installations, and convenience stores. CCTV is generally used for continues monitoring or only as required to monitor a particular event.

Below are some of the applications for CCTV

o Monitoring traffic at traffic junctions

o Keep watch on people at railway stations, airports etc

o Production control in a factory

CCTV applications are endless. Now a days more and more places covered by CCTV surveillance.

Now days different types of CCTV cameras are available in market. Below are some of major types of

CCTV cameras

o Dome Cameras

o Standard Box Cameras

o Day/Night Cameras

o Hidden Camera

o High Speed Dome Camera

o Wireless Control Camera

The benefits to the installation of CCTV systems are both numerous and practical, and include:

o Reducing potentially insurance premiums upon installation

o Increasing staff productivity

o Identifying criminals

o Monitoring various areas at which you can’t reach

o Deters theft, malicious misbehavior and wreckage

o Constant and consistent surveillance 24 hours a day, every day

CCTV UAE security systems are available for your indoor, outdoor, and even underwater surveillance needs, and one system can be expected to last at least five years. For a small amount of pocket change per day, you can protect your business and know that should anything happen, you can always rely on the evidence from your camera.

Author is related with security camera system CCTV UAE at avi-infosys.com. Find many more information on different CCTV cameras in CCTV Dubai.

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Wireless Cameras – Versatility and Security

September 3rd, 2010 by outdoorcamera

Wireless cameras provide flexibility and better options for your security needs. These offer versatility and maximum performance all year round. To get full satisfaction from these surveillance gadgets, know how these work and how to install them. Here are some useful tips to get you going.

Versatility plus

Wireless cameras are becoming favorite surveillance gadgets everywhere. These offer flexibility in installation and are user friendly.But how do they differ from the wired versions?

Mobility and flexibility – Wireless cameras can be moved to different areas in the office or in the home. In contrast, wired cameras, once installed, are not easy to remove. This will require the assistance of a technical person.

Cost effective – Since it is easy to transfer wireless cameras without any technical assistance, there is no cost involved here. You can relocate it from the pool to the family den without sweat.

No fussy wires – Wireless cameras blend well with any interior. Your interior decorating will not be marred by the presence of unsightly wires.

Different sizes to fit different needs – You have the option to get a camera smaller than the size of your thumb which you can take with you anywhere. Don’t be fooled by its size. It can record all activities better than the bigger cameras. People act naturally when they don’t suspect any spy gadgets. You can catch them in the act without sweat.

Available in black and white or color – Surprisingly, technology has made wireless cameras in color affordable. Color cameras are better at providing identifiable images. You’ll know the hair color of the subject and the shirt color he or she is wearing. This aspect in surveillance is useful for identifying miscreants if there is a need to.

How it works

It is smart to know how your wireless cameras work to be able to appreciate them. Essentially, this is how it goes. Between the camera, computer or TV, is a receiver and transmitter. The transmitter forwards the audio and video signals. The distance will also depend on the type of wireless cameras. You could be 500 miles away or just 400 feet away from the camera and still receive real time signals.

You can hide the camera inside a doll or a clock and it will work steadily while the signals are recorded on the regular VHS cassette tape. So get the wireless cameras for different needs: a nanny camera to keep an eye on the nanny, a doorbell camera to see who is at the door, and an outdoor camera to check on your property while you’re away.

There is no need to be alarmed about wireless cameras. Contrary to popular thinking, these are easy to set up and use. Here’s how you start these cameras:

1. When you’ve decided the place for the wireless camera indoors or outdoors, mount it where you want it. Also make sure that is protected from the elements.

2. Plug it in or you can use the battery pack. Of course, you have to make sure that the designated area has access to an electrical outlet.

3. Have your video receiver plugged into a computer, VCR, or TV.

4. Presto, you start enjoying live feed.

So if you spend thousands of dollars beautifying your home, take the time to invest in wireless cameras for your home video surveillance systems. The returns of this investment cannot match a Bill Gates windfall.

You have the option for flexibility with wireless cameras for your CCTV system and home and office video security system. Visit Video-Surveillance-Guide.com now.

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Camera Security Systems – Wired or Wireless?

September 3rd, 2010 by outdoorcamera


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Are you worried about the safety of your home, office or family? Are you trying to find some reliable security option? Then, camera security system is the solution to your problems. Security cameras are very easy to install and provide better safety to your home and business. Camera security systems can be very effective if combined with other security options such as burglar alarm or motion lights.

There are two types of security cameras available in the market: wired and wireless. Some of the factors that you should consider before deciding which security camera you should buy are:

  • Size of the place where you want to install the camera
  • Placement or location of the camera, and
  • Cost

Wireless security camera can cover small distance as well as the large distance. Some wireless cameras can capture the image as far as one thousand feet. Distance that a security camera will cover varies for different models. Wireless security cameras are very convenient to use as they can be placed at any location without any hassle of wires. Wireless security cameras are expensive than wired security camera.

Now if we talk about wired security camera, it is as good as wireless camera. In fact, wired security cameras provides better signal comparative to wireless camera. Wired cameras can be placed at any location, provided a socket is there. If you are worried that wires will look untidy, then you can do conceal wiring or you can hide wires by some other method.

There are many security cameras available in the market, and it is confusing to decide which camera will fulfill your requirements. Here we are going to discuss few types of camera security systems. The different types of security cameras are:

  • Security Cameras: These cameras can be used for any indoor and outdoor applications.
  • Dome Cameras: These cameras are easy to mount and provide lot of flexibility. Dome cameras can be fitted on the wall or ceilings.
  • Vandal Resistant: These cameras are very sturdy and can be mounted anywhere. Vandal resistant security cameras are mainly used for ATM’s, mass transit systems, correctional facilities, and vandalism prone areas.
  • Weatherproof: Weatherproof camera as the name suggests can withstand in any weather and can be used for outdoor applications. Weatherproof cameras are very economical.
  • Infrared Cameras: Infrared camera works well in variable lighting situations and can capture the video even in complete darkness.
  • Inline Cameras: Inline cameras are generally unnoticed. Inline cameras are mainly useful for retailers who require careful monitoring of their business.
  • Board Cameras: Board cameras can be perfectly used for customized secret application. These cameras are usually of 1” square and easy to install.
  • Micro Video Cameras: Micro video cameras are mainly used by police department and narcotics unit. Most of the micro video cameras come with mounting brackets, plug and play video cables, and sturdy housing.
  • PTZ Cameras: PTZ stands for Pan/Tilt/Zoom. These cameras provide precise or exact view. PTZ cameras are mainly used for retail purposes, emergency response vehicles, or any place which requires full monitoring.
  • Inspection devices: Inspection cameras are helpful to perform search and rescue operations, under vehicle search, and drug interdiction.
  • Specialty Camera: Examples of specialty camera are: Vehicle Rear View Camera, Peephole cameras, underwater cameras, etc.
  • IP Cameras: IP cameras can be accessed from a remote location by using the IP address.

Choosing a right camera security system is the key to provide safety to your family and property. So do a survey, before buying to find out the best camera security system for your need.

Steve Strong’s is an employee with Sun Security which supplies Home Security Cameras [http://www.sunsecurity.com/security-cameras-c-119.html] and Business Security Camera Systems [http://www.sunsecurity.com/security-camera-systems-c-116.html]. Visit us at: http://www.sunsecurity.com

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How to Select a Surveillance Camera Lens

September 3rd, 2010 by outdoorcamera

When you finally set out to select your Surveillance Camera, for realizing your well thought out Home Security project, you should be advised that, besides other elements equally important, the lens plays a determining part in the camera performance.

It is the lens that determines the amount of light entering the camera. Besides the quality of materials and of manufacturing, usually reflected in the price, some of the lens characteristics have much bearing on the viewed picture.

Even if you do not want to become an expert in lenses, there are a few concepts that you should understand before you purchase your surveillance camera.

The subjects are well known from the field of still photography, so that the principles should not be completely unfamiliar for whoever has some practice of family picture taking even at a very basic level.

In most surveillance cameras, lenses are interchangeable. Therefore you should decide if the picture seen on the monitor is satisfactory for your application, with reference to the depth of focus, the angle of view and the amount of detail you want to distinguish.

In case you are not satisfied with the performance of the standard lens supplied, you should ask to see how a different lens would improve the images you want to observe.

Normally one should select the best overall picture for the purpose. Note that by changing one of the characteristics (i.e. aperture) one modifies other related properties (i.e. the depth of focus).

The overall result is a matter of compromise whereby, by sacrificing somewhat one feature one gains a better response from another one.

Fixed focal length is a common selection: although limiting somewhat the dimension of the space where all objects result clearly perceived (depth of focus), it simplifies the mechanical construction and reduces the price.

You may be familiar with autofocus feature found in modern digital cameras. There is no comparable capability in cameras because they must work unattended. A lens whose focal length can be manually adjusted is called a Varifocal lens but should not normally be considered for surveillance purposes.

Equally too sophisticated for the application would be a motorized zoom lens, capable of being commanded from a distance to select the preferred level of detail between wide-angle and telephoto.

Fixed iris or aperture is another characteristic to be considered that simplifies construction and operation, albeit with some compromise on picture quality. It would probably be easier to provide sufficient illumination then going for more complex optics.

In conclusion, despite the nice and costly alternatives available, for a simple home surveillance system it would be advisable to select one of the simplest lenses, provided that the quality of the picture is sufficient for the intended purpose.

Elia Levi is a retired engineer. He built a website to assist with a step-by-step Guide to understand, design, select and set up, all by yourself the best and least expensive surveillance system for your home security. Read more on the subject of this article at http://www.1st-diy-home-surveillance-guide.com/Surveillance-camera-lenses.html

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Are Pentax SLR Cameras Any Good?

September 3rd, 2010 by outdoorcamera


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I was never really a professional with photography, but I was getting tired of the same old point-and-shoot camera. One day, I finally decided it was time to buy a Pentax SLR. Before I jumped in though, I did a lot of research. I eventually reached the decision to buy the Pentax K200D. I’ve never been one to buy an item because of its brand, because the name of an item does not necessarily determine its quality and performance. Now, I picked the Pentax K200D for many reasons which I will explain in detail below.

First of all, the camera offered weather sealing. On the box, it claims that it is the only camera in the industry (DSLR cameras) that is weather sealed. Though I probably won’t need this, it is always good to have it to be on the safe side. Definitely a good feature for those outdoor photographers though.

Secondly, the camera allows users to take high quality JPEG and RAW photos at the same time. Most other cameras do not offer this, and alternatively only offer medium quality JPEG photos.

On another note, the camera is like the tank of cameras. I read many reviews from buyers of Sony and Nikon cameras, and many claimed that the cameras consisted of cheap lenses and were not very sturdy. I experienced this first hand after trying out some myself. Furthermore, the Pentax is complete opposite of those.

Something that is a positive to some users, yet a negative to some, is the fact that ir runs on AA batteries. The reason why I find this to be a positive is because there are many good AA quality batteries available nowadays. With this camera and those batteries, I know my camera will be lasting for a long time. Even if I do run out of batteries, I can virtually go to any store and purchase batteries.

The camera features in-body stabilization. This is great for beginners, and this was proven to me directly. This feature helped save many of my photos! Lastly, the camera is an APS-C sensor, a feature that attracted many buyers.

So how do I like the camera? So far it’s great! I’ve been testing things out, particularly with different lenses. The autofocus on the camera is very quick as well. The light metering is also very consistent for me so far. The only thing I found I did not like so far is its burst rate, which is a bit low (4 JPEG or RAWs). I guess it is not too important because I do not do sports shots. If you are looking for a camera to take sport shots, this may not be it for you. Otherwise, it is one of the best cameras I have owned, and will continue to use it and learn more! The price was reasonable, and if I could, I would have bought this camera way before I bought any of my other cameras. The Pentax K200D makes the idea of SLR cameras easy for beginners like me

Getting the perfect Pentax SLR camera, is never an easy thing, especially with the way digital technology is constantly changing. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful websites online, that can narrow down your search and help you find the Pentax camera with all the features important to you.

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Setting Up a Wireless Security Camera System

September 3rd, 2010 by outdoorcamera


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The beauty of a wireless security camera system lies in the simplicity of its installation and use. Your multiple wireless cameras can simultaneously transmit video images directly to a receiver hooked up to your television or computer. It’s a discreet way to keep an eye on your kids, your employees, your business or property.

You don’t need to spend a thousand bucks on buying your equipment and then another grand for the guys who’ll set it up. Instead, buckle up for a quick job that will bring you great peace of mind because all you need are a few good cameras, a computer and a stable software.

Get The Picture: Wireless Cameras

By building your own surveillance system you have the liberty to chose your assortment of cameras. You can have four cameras or 30 cameras, as many as you need. If you intend to conduct outdoor surveillance, you will need to place cameras at the houses’ main entrances, lawn, garage, pool area or backyard.

Good outdoor cameras better be weather resistant and have night vision. Indoor surveillance is a lot less complicated as you can use even use a simple computer or spy camera. These are inconspicuous and easily disguised.

Camera Buying Tips

Before making your purchase, be sure to check the range of the cameras‘ signal to ensure that it reaches your receiver. Larger properties may need cameras with more powerful transmitters.

To minimize the data input, opt for a motion or voice activated camera or you’ll wind up with hours of data to skim through.

Receiver

Wireless cameras transmit video images through walls at a distance of 300 feet to 10 miles. You will need to get a DVR receiver to pick up the signals transmitted by your cameras. The receiver is a vital part of your system as without it, you will be unable to view the images your cameras take.

The device can be easily plugged into your computer or television where you intend to view the images. Some cameras come equipped with their own DVR cards and can broadcast directly to the Internet, but you can also buy the receiver separately from any security and surveillance store.

Software

You will need to install a stable version of a surveillance software that lets you monitor your cameras 24/7. Whether you use Mac, Windows or Linux, you will find plenty of paid and free softwares on-line. These wares let you monitor, store and transfer files. You can view live feeds on your laptop, phone or desktop with equal ease.

Data Storage Space

The data from all your video cameras will need to be stored safely. With multiple cameras at different locations taping all day long, your data storage requirements will shoot up drastically. You will need to rent out server space on-line or buy a separate 1 TB hard drive to store your video data. You will also have to regularly monitor your data.

Learn how to use wireless hidden cameras to provide a safer home for you and your family by visiting: http://www.wirelesshiddencamera.net

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Great Portraits in the Great Outdoors

September 3rd, 2010 by outdoorcamera

If you have ever photographed your weekend outing, family reunion, or a special vacation getaway with your friends or family, you know that outdoor photography can present some very special challenges. This is true even for the most seasoned photographer. Direct sunlight can be harsh. Unwanted objects can interfere with your composition. Proper color rendering can be problematic. And many times, good old Mother Nature is just not feeling cooperative. Perhaps, there’s not much that can be done about Mother Nature, but with some practice and patience you can overcome many of the other challenges you face as an outdoor portrait photographer. Along my journey as a photographer I’ve learned some outdoor techniques that may benefit those who choose to follow:

1. Keep it simple. The subtle pattern and color of an adobe wall, the simple repeating pattern and muted tones of planks on a fishing pier, or the uniform color of a patch of blue bonnets, snapdragons, or yellow primrose can serve as wonderful backdrops for your outdoor portraits. When you are composing your portrait, you want your subject to be the focal point that all eyes are drawn to. Busy patterns, large areas of excessively vibrant colors (especially a mixture of different colors), or over imposing forms in your foreground or background that are not treated properly, can really distract from her if you are not careful.

2. Control the depth of field (the range of distances from your camera that are in focus). The edge of a forest, or mountains in the distance may render beautifully as a backdrop for your subject with proper control over the depth of field. If you have an SLR camera, you can adjust your depth of field to bring the background more or less out of focus relative to your subject. This serves as eye control for the observer of your portrait. The eye is naturally drawn to what is brightest and most sharply focused. If your subject is sharply focused relative to the background, she will be accentuated as the focal point of your portrait. Controlling the depth of field is accomplished by adjusting your aperture setting (the size of your lens opening, expressed in f-stops). The smaller the f-stop the larger the opening of your lens, and the smaller the depth of field will be. For instance, when you see a photograph in a nature magazine of a beautiful butterfly in a patch of flowers, and the butterfly is in razor sharp focus but the flowers are gently blurred; this was accomplished by the photographer using a narrow depth of field (small f-stop setting). For bright light situations this may be difficult to achieve. For any given intensity of light, as you open up the aperture (lower the f-stop) you must increase the shutter speed (thereby decreasing exposure time) to avoid over exposure. Increasing the shutter speed generally reduces resolution in the image. Experiment to find the combination of aperture setting and shutter speed that gives the result you desire.

3. Be mindful of distracting objects behind your subject. What is plainly a bush, a mailbox, or a birdhouse to your eye, can appear like an extra appendage growing out of the top of your subject’s head in your two dimensional portrait. You may get some interesting effects this way, but generally they will not make a good impression on your subject. Take the time to find an interesting angle that eliminates distracting objects from the background.

4. Control the light. “Down light” (e.g. harsh midday light) is generally undesirable. Due to the shadow patterns it creates, it can bring out the worst in your subject … can anyone say, “Raccoon eyes”? “Lateral light” (e.g. early morning and late afternoon light) is much more desirable. Lateral light can be controlled and directed to create beautiful shadow patterns across the face of your subject. There is a saying with many photographers who shoot outdoors, “the first tree in the forest is best” for a background. The reason is, the canopy of the first tree controls the harsh down light, but being on the edge of the forest, you still have lateral light to work with. The same idea holds true for porches or the edge of any other type of overhang. Professional photographers sometimes use shade cloth and reflectors to block down light while directing available lateral light to enhance their subject and achieve their desired effect.

5. Correct the color. Before the digital age, corrective filters or special films were mostly used for color correction in outdoor portraits. With digital cameras, the color can be corrected using your white balance setting (expressed as color temperature in degrees Kelvin). Most digital cameras today do a pretty good job of automatically adjusting the white balance for outdoor exposures. If you would like to experiment with your manual white balance setting use the table below as a guide. For a more detailed understanding of the meaning of color temperature correction, see the article at: http://www.sizes.com/units/color_temperature.htm

Temperature………..Typical Sources

1000K…………………Candles; oil lamps

2400K…………………Early morning sunrise

3200K…………………Tungsten light bulbs

4000K…………………Fluorescent

5200K…………………Typical daylight; electronic flash

6000K…………………Cloudy Day

7000K…………………Shade

Keeping your composition simple, controlling the depth of field, and eliminating objects that may distract from your subject, all help to accentuate your subject as the focal point of your portrait. Controlling the available natural light and correcting the white balance of your photographs can reveal and enhance the true beauty of your subject. Beyond this, make it your aim each day to unleash your creativity that you may see the world around you in fresh and unique ways. Never be content with seeing the ordinary as ordinary. Just stop and think for a moment, everything there is, is ordinary to someone. Art is created by those with the ability to see beyond the ordinary, to interpret their world in an exceptional way, and to reflect their interpretation for others to see. So, experiment and don’t be afraid to try something new. The world is abundant in forms, textures, colors, and patterns of light … all the handy-work of God. Grand landscapes and magnificent manmade structures are not required for great photos in the great outdoors. May Mother Nature always cooperate with you. Good day and happy clicking!

www.hayleybarnesphoto.com [http://www.hayleybarnesphoto.com]

Steve Barnes is a professional portrait photographer, a free lance writer, and co-owner of Hayley Barnes Photography, in League City, Texas. Please visit his website at: [http://www.hayleybarnesphoto.com] or send comments to steve@hayleybarnesphoto.com

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