Photo Tips and Articles

At Berger-Bros we try our best to give our customers the best products at great prices, as well as the knowledge and support to make the most of those products. Here are some photography tips and tricks that will help you take better pictures as well as information on cameras, photography and film. We also have a section of articles from both Professional and Amateur photgraphers, so take a moment to read throught them, you're bound to learn a now trick or two!

If you ever have questions regarding your purchase or any other photographic or electronic products in the future, feel free to contact us.

TELESCOPES & BINOCULARS

Stargazing is an enjoyable hobby for people of all age groups, and space exploration has made it more popular than ever.  Today's computer-guided telescopes make it easier and more affordable to see the wonders of the universe.    MORE...

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In the world of still photography, there are four styles of cameras to choose from:

Point and Shoot Cameras are the simplest cameras to use and are an excellent choice for beginners as well as those who wish a no-fuss means of photography. All have auto-focus, automatic film advance, auto-exposure and a built in flash. Most feature include zoom lenses and automated film loading. 

SLR Cameras offer a viewfinder which provides a view equivalent of the lens used to take the picture. Single Lens Reflex cameras used to be more complicated to use, but have advanced over the years to have some of the features that point and shoot cameras have without sacrificing the quality. SLR cameras range from basic models with built in flash and auto exposure to professional units with many features. 

Polaroid Cameras have been around since the 50s and are still very popular. The photograph can be seen just minutes after the image is taken. 

Digital Cameras are the latest in photography technology, and do not capture images on film, but onto memory cards that can be downloaded onto a computer.

What is APS?
APS stands for Advanced Photo System. The Advanced Photo System is an alternative to 35mm that offers many advantages for the casual shooter and several for the more serious photographer as well. The highlight of APS is that it gives the photographer the choice of three print formats -- Classic ("C") format will produce prints that are 3.5 x 5 or 4 x 6 inches. Group ("H") format will produce prints that are 3.5 x 6 or 4 x 7 inches. Panoramic ("P") format will produce prints that are 4 x 10 or 4 x 11 inches. As well, it features drop in film loading as well as film status indicators -- four icons on the film cassette indicate the status of the film. The icon will either show the status as unexposed, partially exposed, fully exposed, or processed. And when you have your film processed and printed, you receive an index print -- a small size representation of all the pictures taken on one print -- and negatives are returned processed in the easy to store film cassette. 

Learn more about APS cameras and film at Berger Bros. We carry a full line of cameras to fit any budget.

What is ASA?
ASA, or ISO numbers refer to a film's sensitivity to light. The higher the number, the more sensitive the film is to light. Films above 400 ASA are ideal for low light conditions where no flash is used. The ability to shoot under such conditions comes at a price as the higher the ASA, the more grainy and softer the photo will appear. Film rated at 100 ASA, or lower, will appear much sharper, however, the shot requires a lot more light form a natural source or flash. 

For general shooting, most believe an ASA of 200 used outdoors or indoors with a flashis a good choice for an all-purpose film. 

Photographic Film - When photographic film is exposed in a camera, an invisible image is formed in its emulsion and an image is made visible by chemical processing. Although the time that film can be kept unprocessed after exposure without degradation of the images depends on the type, it is recommended to process film promptly after exposure. 

Keep in mind also the quality of the end result also depends on conditions in the environment in which the film and camera are stored. Heat and humidity are the enemies of photographic film, a factor that is especially important when using professional film, which must be refrigerated before use, and processed soon after exposure.
 

TIPS

Flash - It is suggested to use a flash out doors even if the camera tells you there is enough light. By using a flash outdoors you will eliminate shadows from the sun and the photo will look more natural. On the other hand, a strong shadow could make a plain shot look more dramatic. Experiment with your camera and different types of film - the possibilities are endless! 

Lenses - To increase the life of your camera lens, always protect the lens with a U/V filter and lens cap. It's also a good idea to keep all your camera equipment in a camera bag or covered place to avoid dust and dirt when they are not in use. 

Black & White Photography - Don't underestimate the power of black & white photography. Although color  photography makes up 95% of the film market, the beauty of this art is often more abstract, dramatic and memorable. Think about the timeless photos from historical events; most of them are in black & white, as it is the format favored by photojournalists. Also, people look better in black & white photographs as it is 'more forgiving' with facial features. 

The Beach - NEVER bring your camera to the beach unless it is especially designed for that environment. Even if you are not using it for underwater use, sand and sea air can damage the delicate mechanisms within the camera. 

Berger Bros. stocks a complete line of underwater and water resistant cameras, as well as protective camera housings especially made to fit over SLR cameras and camcorders. Whether you need a professional underwater camera, a point and shoot or a disposable underwater camera ask one of our underwater photography specialists to find the right equipment for you!