
Light is the soul of an image. So, learning to manipulate light in order to produce the results you had in mind before you capture the image is an integral part to becoming a better photographer.
Inherently in the learning process, there’s a lot of experimention. As they say, “learn by doing” and “practice makes perfect.” However, there are a number of great resources to help steer you in the right direction – all available for free on the Interwebs.
Here’s 7 lighting tutorials that will help make your photos stand out. [click to continue…]

Cameras.co.uk has posted a review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS7.
It can cope with most photo opportunities and is also relatively easy to use. On top of this you will find a few extra features thrown in for the money.

Digital Camera Review has posted a review of the Canon PowerShot SX200 IS.
It’s a solid, better-than-average performer in most respects, with great zoom range, wide-ranging control options to please everyone from novices to enthusiasts, a lucid interface, 720p video capture, and decent construction.
For more news and reviews, check out Photography Bay’s Canon PowerShot SX200 IS Reviews.

Imaging Resource has posted a review of the waterproof, shockproof and deathproof dustproof Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1.
Panasonic has produced a real winner with the Lumix TS1: a digital camera that you can take anywhere, rain or shine, underwater, and you can even mistreat it and it’ll still turn in better photos than many other digital cameras on the market.
For more news and reviews, see Photography Bay’s Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1 Reviews and Resources.
Here’s a reader question that asks for recommendations for wide angle digital cameras suitable for real estate appraisers. Do you have some advice to offer this experienced real estate appraiser to help him get better images?
I’ve been a real estate appraiser for twenty years. Finding a true wide angle camera with a decent zoom capability, is very difficult. Most appraisers and real estate agents need a well made camera that will shoot interiors and exteriors and produce a quality photo.
Optical view finders have been replaced by LCD screens that are impossible to see in the bright sun light. I’ve tried the dual lens camera and the latest wide angle camera are not as wide as needed. I have a number of cameras but the one I use more than others, is a Kodak DC5000 with a 28mm lens.
There must be a good market for a wide angle camera of this type. I would like to hear from some folks with a similar problem and some good ideas that will resolve this dilemma. Helpful ideas?
I’m going to start off with a recommendation to visit the Photography for Real Estate Blog and browse around for useful tips and techniques.
Now, the spotlight is on Photography Bay readers. I’ll let you guys handle the camera recommendations. What are architecture and real estate shooters using out there? Based on his question and current gear, let’s think about mostly point and shoot solutions and perhaps some useful suggestions on low-end DSLRs.
Fire away with your advice, recommendations and thoughts in the comments below.