Buying a new lens

If you're not sure about which lens to buy, remember this:
for maximum versatility you want the widest aperture (f-stop), you want autofocus, and you want image stablization (or vibration compensation or something similar).

While the zoom range or prime number (for lenses that have a fixed distance) is determined by your shooting needs, the aperture will give you depth of field control, the autofocus can focus faster than most people I know, and the vibration control will give you sharper pictures when not using a tripod (like when you're on the ground chasing a small child around or at a ballgame and you need to follow the action.

Take one pic

Before you leave the house, take one picture.  If you have your digital camera set to "require" a memory card to capture, then you'll know if you are heading out with an empty card slot.  As a bonus you can check the image for white balance and other settings like metering and camera settings (aperture or shutter priority mode or manual vs. program mode)

Get it right the first time

While you are shooting, try to get as many technical and compositional aspects correct when you are shooting to save yourself time in post processing.

Make a checklist

Before you head out on a photo shoot, make a checklist of poses, props and gear before you head out on a shoot so you don't forget something important. Also - don't forget to put extra batteries, cords, memory cards, and accessories on the list.

When buying your first set of gear.

When you are just starting out and buying your first gear. Pick a camera system (brand) and then buy the most expensive lens you can afford. Camera bodies are just computers that become outdated, but a great lens can last a career...

Welcome to outofnapkins.com photo tips!

This blog is a companion to the outofnapkins.com website and the outofnapkins.wordpress.com blog!

It is a quick and easy way to find photography tips, tricks, timesavers and poses.

Btw, reader ideas and suggestions are gladly accepted (and even wanted)