Basic To Advanced Photography
Basic To Advanced Photography
Basic To Advanced Photography
INTRODUCTION
Photography is the art and science of capturing light with a camera, either on film or digitally,
to create an image. The basic principles of photography include understanding exposure (the
amount of light that enters the camera), aperture (the size of the camera's aperture), and shutter
speed (the length of time the camera's shutter is open). Other important elements of photography
include composition, which involves arranging the elements in the scene to create a visually
pleasing image, and editing, which involves adjusting the image after it has been captured to
enhance its overall quality. There are many different types of photography, including landscape,
portrait, action, and macro photography, each with its own unique characteristics and techniques.
In the early 19th century, French inventor Joseph Nicéphore Niépce used a camera obscura to
create the world's first known photograph, which was captured on a pewter plate coated with
bitumen. This process was called heliography.
In 1837, Louis Daguerre, a French artist and scientist, developed the daguerreotype process,
which was the first practical method of photography. The process involved capturing an image
on a silver-plated copper sheet that had been sensitized with iodine vapor. The image was then
developed with the use of mercury vapor and fixed with a solution of salt. The resulting image
was highly detailed and had great tonal range, but the process was difficult and expensive.
The daguerreotype process was soon improved upon by the invention of the calotype process by
William Henry Fox Talbot in 1841, which used a negative to produce multiple prints. This
invention led to the development of many other photographic processes such as the collodion
process, which was introduced in the 1850s, and the gelatin silver process, which became the
standard for black and white photography in the later part of the 19th century.
The invention of the modern film camera in the late 19th century by George Eastman and the
invention of color photography in the early 20th century by the Lumière brothers and others
further advanced the field of photography. With the advent of digital photography in the late 20th
century, photography has become more accessible and versatile than ever before.
Nowadays, digital photography continues to evolve with new technologies and software, such as
AI-based image processing and machine learning for image recognition, making it even easier
for people to take and manipulate high-quality images.
Persistence of Vision
Persistence of vision is a phenomenon that occurs when an image is displayed for a short period
of time, but the brain continues to perceive the image for a short period after the image has been
removed. This phenomenon is responsible for the illusion of motion in motion pictures and
animation.
In photography, persistence of vision is used in a few different ways. One way it is used is in
high-speed photography, where a series of photographs are taken in rapid succession and then
played back in a specific sequence to create the illusion of motion. Another way persistence of
vision is used in photography is through the use of a strobe light, which is a type of flash that
emits a very short burst of light. When a strobe light is used to photograph a moving object, the
object appears to be frozen in time, as the brief flash of light captures the object at a specific
point in its motion.
Persistence of vision can also be used to create the illusion of motion in a still image by taking
multiple photographs of an object in motion and then compositing them together in a single
Muybridge set up a row of cameras along the track at the Palo Alto Stock Farm in California.
Each camera was triggered by a thread that was broken by the horse as it galloped past. The
resulting photographs showed that, contrary to popular belief at the time, a horse does indeed
have all four hooves off the ground at the same time during a gallop.
The experiment was made possible by the advancement in photography technology, particularly
in the development of faster shutter speeds that could freeze motion. The result of the experiment
was widely discussed in the scientific and artistic communities, and it had a profound impact on
the way motion was depicted in art. Muybridge's photographs were widely reproduced, and they
provided artists with a new understanding of the dynamics of motion.
Muybridge's experiment is considered as one of the first steps towards motion picture, his work
was the first photographic studies of movement and his images were used to study movement in
many fields including sports, dance and animal locomotion. His work was also significant in the
field of animation, as it helped animators to create more realistic and accurate movement in their
animations.
Camera Obscura
A Camera Obscura (Latin for "dark chamber") is an optical device that uses a small aperture or
lens to project an inverted image of the outside world onto a surface inside the device. It
essentially functions as a pinhole camera, and it is considered to be the predecessor of the
modern camera.
The camera obscura can take many different forms, including a portable box or tent, a room, or a
large-scale architectural installation. The basic principle is that light enters the device through a
small aperture or lens and is then projected onto a surface inside, where it forms an inverted
image of the outside world. The image can be observed by looking at the surface or by tracing
the image onto a piece of paper.
The camera obscura has been known since ancient times and was used by scientists, artists, and
engineers for centuries. In the 16th and 17th centuries, it was used by scientists to observe and
study the solar eclipse, while in the 18th and 19th centuries, it was used by artists as a tool for
tracing and drawing.
The camera obscura can also be equipped with a mirror or prism to invert the image back to its
correct orientation, making it easier to observe and trace.
In modern times, the camera obscura is no longer in widespread use as a tool for observing and
studying the world, however it is still used in some specialized fields such as in surveying, and
some artists and photographers continue to experiment with the device as a tool for creating
unique images.
The structure of an SLR camera typically consists of the following main components:
Lens: The lens is the most important part of the camera, as it focuses the light that enters
the camera onto the film or digital sensor. SLR cameras have interchangeable lenses,
allowing photographers to use different lenses for different types of photography, such as
wide-angle, telephoto, or macro lenses.
Mirror: The mirror is located inside the camera body and reflects the light coming
through the lens up to the pentaprism, which is a prism located at the top of the camera
that reflects the light to the viewfinder. The mirror is flipped out of the way when the
picture is taken, allowing the light to pass through the lens and onto the film or sensor.
Shutter: The shutter controls the amount of time that the film or digital sensor is exposed
to light. When the camera's shutter release button is pressed, the shutter opens and light is
allowed to pass through the lens and onto the film or sensor. The amount of time the
shutter stays open is determined by the shutter speed setting.
Viewfinder: The viewfinder is located at the top of the camera and allows the
photographer to see the scene they are about to photograph. The viewfinder is a separate
optical system that does not require the mirror to be flipped up, so the photographer can
see the scene through the viewfinder even when the camera is not taking a picture.
Film or Digital Sensor: The film or digital sensor is the medium that captures the image.
Film cameras use a roll of film that is advanced after each exposure. Digital cameras use
a digital sensor that captures the image and stores it on a memory card.
Other parts like film advance lever, aperture ring, focus ring, shutter speed dial, and
other buttons and dials are also present in an SLR camera to control the camera settings
and functions.
All these components work together to create a high-quality image that captures the true essence
of the scene. The interchangeable lens and viewfinder design of an SLR camera allow
photographers to easily capture images with a high level of precision, making it an ideal choice
for professional photographers.
TLR Camera: A Twin-lens reflex (TLR) camera is a type of camera that uses two lenses, one
for the viewfinder and one for taking the picture. The viewfinder lens is positioned above the
taking lens and the viewfinder is located on the top of the camera. The twin-lens design allows
for the use of longer focal lengths, making it ideal for portrait, landscape, and other types of
photography that require precise focusing. TLR cameras were popular in the past, but today are
less common compared to other camera types like Single-lens reflex (SLR) and Digital single-
lens reflex (DSLR).
The structure of a TLR camera typically consists of the following main components:
Normal lenses: These lenses have a focal length of around 50mm and an angle of view of
around 45 degrees. They are considered to be a "normal" perspective and produce images that
are similar to what the human eye sees. They are great for portraits and general purpose
photography.
Telephoto lenses: These lenses have a longer focal length and a narrower angle of view,
typically between 40 and 150 degrees. They are great for capturing distant subjects such as
wildlife, sports, and action. They tend to have a shallower depth of field and produce a greater
sense of compression in the image.
Zoom lenses: Zoom lenses allow you to adjust the focal length of the lens, which changes the
angle of view. They are convenient as they allow you to frame a shot without changing lenses.
They can be wide-angle, normal or telephoto lenses.
Macro lenses: These lenses are designed to be used for close-up and macro photography. They
have a high magnification ratio and a narrow angle of view. They are great for capturing small
details and textures, such as flowers, insects, and other small objects.
All these lenses have different focal lengths, aperture and other features and they work
differently to capture the images. They are often made with multiple elements, and with coatings
on the lens surface to reduce glare and improve image quality.
It's important to note that the perspective or angle of view of a lens is determined by its focal
length, which is the distance between the lens and the film or digital sensor when the lens is
focused at infinity. A shorter focal length produces a wider angle of view, while a longer focal
length produces a narrower angle of view.
F-stop is a measure of the aperture size and is defined as the ratio of the lens's focal length to the
diameter of the aperture. The f-stop number is written as "f/x", where "x" is the f-stop number.
For example, an f-stop of f/8 means that the aperture diameter is one-eighth the size of the lens's
focal length. The smaller the f-stop number, the larger the aperture, and the more light that can
F-stop numbers are a standardized system of measurement that allows photographers to easily
compare the aperture size of different lenses. The most common f-stop numbers are f/1.4, f/2,
f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, f/8, f/11, f/16, and f/22. Each f-stop number represents a halving or doubling of
the aperture size, and each step corresponds to a change in exposure of one stop.
T-stop is another measure of aperture size, and it is used for cine lenses. T-stop is a more
accurate measure of the amount of light that enters the camera than f-stop, and it takes into
account the factors such as lens coatings, which can affect the amount of light that reaches the
film or digital sensor. T-stop is written as "T/x" where "x" is the T-stop number.
The aperture also affects the depth of field of an image. Depth of field is the area of an image
that is in sharp focus, and it is determined by the aperture size. A large aperture (small f-stop
number) produces a shallow depth of field, where only a small portion of the image is in sharp
focus. This can be used to create a pleasing bokeh effect, where the background is blurred and
the subject is in sharp focus. On the other hand, a small aperture (large f-stop number) produces
a deep depth of field, where most of the image is in sharp focus. This can be used to create
landscape or architectural photography, where everything in the image is in focus.
In conclusion, aperture is an essential component of exposure that controls the amount of light
that enters the camera. It is measured in f-stop and T-stop, and it also affects the depth of field of
an image. Understanding and controlling aperture is a crucial skill for any photographer, and it is
essential for creating beautiful and impactful images.
Focal plane shutter: This type of shutter is located in front of the film or digital sensor, and it
consists of two curtains that move across the film or sensor. The first curtain opens to start the
exposure, and the second curtain closes to end the exposure. The time between when the first
curtain opens and when the second curtain closes is the shutter speed, which is measured in
seconds or fractions of a second. Focal plane shutters are typically found in single-lens reflex
(SLR) and digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras.
The focal plane shutter has two curtains, one is located at the top of the camera and the other one
is at the bottom. The first curtain starts to open and when it reaches to the middle of the sensor,
the second curtain starts to close. The time between the movement of the two curtains is the
shutter speed. This type of shutter allows for a wider range of shutter speeds, from very fast to
very slow, and is capable of high-speed flash synchronization.
Lens shutter: This type of shutter is located within the lens itself, and it consists of a set of
blades that open and close to control the amount of light that enters the camera. Lens shutters are
In general, focal plane shutters are more versatile and offer a wider range of shutter speeds, but
they are typically found in larger and more expensive cameras. Lens shutters are more compact
and lightweight, but they have a more limited range of shutter speeds. Both types of shutters
have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of which one to use depends on the
specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
Light Meters
A light meter is a device that measures the amount of light in a scene. It is used to determine the
correct exposure settings for a photograph. There are several types of light meters, including
incident, reflected, and through-the-lens (TTL) meters. Each type of meter measures light
differently, and they have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Incident light meters: These meters measure the amount of light falling on a subject. They
typically have a dome-shaped sensor that is pointed at the light source. Incident light meters are
not affected by the color or texture of a subject, so they are ideal for scenes with a wide range of
tones or colors.
Reflected light meters: These meters measure the amount of light reflecting off a subject. They
typically have a flat sensor that is pointed at the subject. Reflected light meters are affected by
the color and texture of a subject, so they may produce inaccurate readings in scenes with a wide
range of tones or colors.
Through-the-lens (TTL) light meters: These meters measure the amount of light passing
through the camera lens. They are built into the camera and use the same light that is captured by
the film or digital sensor to measure the light level. TTL light meters are the most convenient and
accurate because they take into account the aperture and focal length of the lens.
Light meters come with different metering modes, some of the common ones are:
Average: This mode measures the average light level in the scene.
Centre-weighted: This mode gives more weight to the light level in the center of the
scene.
Spot: This mode measures the light level in a very small area of the scene.
Matrix or Evaluative: This mode uses a complex algorithm to measure the light level in
different areas of the scene and compare it with stored data to determine the exposure.
In conclusion, light meters are essential tools for photographers to determine the correct
exposure settings. Different types of light meters measure light differently, and each has its own
advantages and disadvantages. The choice of which type of meter to use depends on the specific
needs and preferences of the photographer. Additionally, the different metering modes provide
different methods of measuring the light in a scene. Understanding and using light meters
correctly can greatly improve the quality of a photograph.
Focus refers to the point in an image that is sharp and in-focus. The focus can be adjusted by
adjusting the distance between the lens and the film or digital sensor. In a camera, there are two
ways to adjust the focus: manual focus and autofocus. Manual focus requires the photographer to
turn a ring on the lens to adjust the distance between the lens and the film or sensor. Autofocus
uses a series of sensors and motors in the camera and lens to automatically adjust the focus on a
specific point in the image.
Depth of field refers to the range of distances in an image that appears to be in focus. A shallow
depth of field is when only a small portion of the image is in focus, while a deep depth of field is
when most of the image is in focus. The depth of field is affected by the aperture, focal length of
the lens, and the distance between the lens and the subject. A larger aperture (smaller f-stop
number) produces a shallower depth of field, while a smaller aperture (larger f-stop number)
produces a deeper depth of field. A longer focal length lens also produces a shallower depth of
field, while a shorter focal length lens produces a deeper depth of field.
It's important to note that the aperture and the distance between the lens and the subject have a
direct relationship to the depth of field. A large aperture (small f-stop number) will result in a
shallow depth of field, which means that only a small portion of the image will be in focus. This
can be used to create a pleasing bokeh effect where the background is blurred and the subject is
in sharp focus. On the other hand, a small aperture (large f-stop number) will result in a deep
depth of field, which means that most of the image will be in focus. This can be used to create
landscape or architectural photography where everything in the image is in focus.
In conclusion, focus and depth of field are two important concepts in photography that affect the
sharpness and clarity of an image. Understanding and controlling focus and depth of field is a
crucial skill for any photographer, and it is essential for creating beautiful and impactful images.
The intensity of light refers to how bright or dim the light is. A brighter light will create a more
illuminated image, while a dimmer light will create a more shadowy image. A brighter light can
also create more contrast in an image, while a dimmer light will create a more subtle image.
The color of light refers to the temperature of the light. Light can be classified as warm or cool
depending on its color temperature. Warm light has a yellow or orange tint and is typically
associated with sunset or candlelight. Cool light has a blue or green tint and is typically
associated with daylight. The color of light can greatly affect the mood of an image, and it can
create a wide range of moods, from warm and inviting to cold and uninviting.
Shadow refers to the absence of light. Shadows can be used to create depth, dimension and
contrast in an image. Shadows can be used to create a sense of depth by showing that an object is
in front or behind another object. Shadows can also be used to create dimension by showing that
an object has volume or mass. Shadows can also be used to create contrast by creating a sharp
contrast between the light and dark areas of an image.
Natural light is the light that comes from the sun, moon, and stars. It is the most common type of
light used in photography, and it is free and widely available. Natural light can be used to create
Artificial light is light that is created by man-made sources, such as light bulbs, flash units, and
continuous lights. It can be used to supplement natural light or to completely illuminate a scene.
Artificial light can be used to create a wide range of moods, from warm and inviting to cold and
uninviting. The direction, intensity, and color of artificial light can be controlled by the
photographer, and it can be used to create specific effects in an image.
The main difference between artificial and natural light is the amount of control that the
photographer has over the direction, intensity, and color of the light. Natural light is often seen as
more desirable, as it is more subtle and less harsh. However, artificial light can be more flexible
and versatile, as it can be used to create specific effects and to light a scene when natural light is
not available.
In conclusion, artificial and natural light are two types of light that photographers use to
illuminate a scene. Each type of light has its own unique characteristics and can be used to create
different effects in an image. Natural light is the light that comes from the sun, moon, and stars,
and it is free and widely available, while artificial light.
Direct light: Direct light is light that comes from a single, identifiable source. It is often
harsh and creates strong shadows. The sun is an example of a direct light source. Direct
light is often used to create dramatic and intense images, with high contrast between light
and shadow.
Soft light: Soft light is light that is diffused and spread out. It creates less contrast
between light and shadow and is often used to create a more subtle and natural image.
Soft light can be created by diffusing natural light with a cloud cover or by using a
diffuser, such as a softbox, on an artificial light source.
Hard light: Hard light is light that is intense and creates sharp shadows. It is often
created by a small, intense light source, such as a spotlight. Hard light can be used to
create dramatic and contrasty images, with sharp edges between light and shadow.
Features of a Photograph
Brightness: Brightness refers to the overall lightness or darkness of a photograph. A photograph
with high brightness will have a lot of light, while a photograph with low brightness will have
less light. This can be adjusted in post-processing through the use of levels or curves.
Contrast: Contrast refers to the difference in brightness between the darkest and lightest areas of
a photograph. A photograph with high contrast will have a large difference in brightness between
the darkest and lightest areas, while a photograph with low contrast will have a smaller
difference. This can also be adjusted in post-processing through the use of levels or curves.
Mid-tones: Mid-tones refer to the middle range of brightness in a photograph. This can include
areas such as skin tones or the sky. These areas are typically not as bright as highlights or as dark
as shadows.
Highlights: Highlights are the brightest areas of a photograph. This can include areas such as the
sun or reflections on water. These areas can be blown out or overexposed if the photograph is too
bright.
Shadows: Shadows are the darkest areas of a photograph. This can include areas such as dark
corners or under the eyes. These areas can be underexposed or too dark if the photograph is not
bright enough.
Silhouettes: Silhouettes refer to photographs where the subject is dark against a bright
background. This can create a dramatic effect and can be used to convey a sense of mystery or
drama.
Lighting Equipments
Soft boxes: Soft boxes are lighting equipment that are used to diffuse and soften light.
They consist of a box-like structure that surrounds the light source, with a diffusing
material on the front. This diffusing material helps to spread the light out in a more even
way, reducing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more natural-looking light. They
Umbrellas: Umbrellas are another type of lighting equipment that is used to diffuse and
soften light. They consist of a metal frame with a fabric cover that attaches to the light
source. Umbrellas can be used to bounce light back onto the subject, or they can be used
as a shoot-through to soften the light on the subject. They are lightweight, easy to use and
can be used in portrait, product and still life photography.
Fresnels: Fresnels are lighting equipment that are used to focus and shape light. They
consist of a series of ridged lenses that are used to control the spread of light. Fresnels are
typically used in stage and film lighting, but they can also be used in photography to
create a more dramatic and focused light.
Skimmers: Skimmers are lighting equipment that are used to create a specific type of
light. They consist of a series of reflectors and lenses that are used to control the spread
of light. Skimmers are typically used to create a soft, even light that is ideal for portrait
photography.
Reflectors: Reflectors are lighting equipment that are used to reflect light onto a subject.
They can be used to fill in shadows and add light to a subject, or they can be used to
bounce light back onto a subject. Reflectors come in different shapes, sizes, and colors
and are used to control the light. They are mostly used in outdoor photography, and
portrait photography to get a soft and natural light.
These are some of the common lighting equipment used in photography, and each has its unique
characteristics and purpose. Understanding and knowing how to use them effectively can help
photographers create beautiful, well-lit images.
The key light is the main light that illuminates the subject. This light is placed in front of the
subject and is usually the brightest light. The key light is typically placed at a 45-degree angle to
the subject to create a sense of depth and dimension.
The back light is used to separate the subject from the background. This light is placed behind
the subject and is typically set to a lower intensity than the key light. The back light helps to
create a sense of depth and dimension, and it also helps to separate the subject from the
background.
The three-point lighting technique can be used in a variety of situations and can be adjusted to
suit the needs of the photographer. It is an essential technique for photographers to master, as it
helps to create beautiful, well-lit images.
It is also important to note that the three-point lighting technique is not the only technique to
light up a subject, and it can be adjusted to different scenarios, like using only one light, or using
more than three lights. In addition, the color temperature, direction, and distance of the lights are
also crucial to get the desired final image.
Filters in Photography
Filters are an important tool for photographers, as they can be used to enhance or change the
characteristics of light in an image. There are several different types of filters that can be used in
photography, each with its own specific purpose.
Neutral Density (ND) Filters: These filters reduce the amount of light that enters the
lens, allowing for a longer exposure time without over-exposing the image. They are
particularly useful for landscape and seascape photography, where a longer exposure can
create a sense of movement, such as a silky water or a dreamy sky.
Polarizing Filters: These filters reduce glare and reflections on surfaces such as water,
glass, and metal. They also increase the saturation and depth of colors in an image. They
are mostly used in landscape and nature photography where reflections can be a problem.
Graduated ND Filters: These filters have a graduated density, which means they are
darker on one end and gradually become lighter on the other end. This allows for the
exposure to be balanced between the sky and the foreground. They are commonly used in
landscape and nature photography where the sky is much brighter than the foreground.
UV Filters: These filters are used to protect the lens from scratches, dust and UV rays.
They can also slightly reduce the haze in an image, particularly in landscape
photography.
Color filters: These filters are used to change the color of the light that enters the lens.
They are commonly used for black and white photography to enhance certain colors and
create a more dramatic image.
These are some of the common filters used in photography, and each has its unique
characteristics and purpose. Understanding and knowing how to use them effectively can help
photographers create beautiful and unique images.
Fill-in flash: A flash unit can be used to fill in shadows and add light to a subject. This is
particularly useful when the main light source is not bright enough or when the subject is
in the shade.
Freeze motion: A flash unit can be used to freeze motion in low light conditions. This is
particularly useful for sports photography and action photography.
Night photography: A flash unit can be used to add light to a scene and create a well-lit
image in low light conditions. This is particularly useful for night photography, where a
flash unit can be used to add light to a scene and create a well-lit image.
Portrait photography: A flash unit can be used to add light to a subject's face and create
a well-lit image. This is particularly useful for portrait photography, where a flash unit
can be used to add light to a subject's face and create a well-lit image.
High-speed sync: A flash unit can be used to synchronize the shutter speed and flash to
allow for a higher shutter speed than the camera's sync speed. This is particularly useful
for action photography, where a higher shutter speed can be used to freeze motion.
Off-camera flash: A flash unit can be used off-camera, this technique allows the
photographer to have more control over the light, such as the direction, the angle and the
intensity of the light.
Some common digital editing techniques include adjusting the exposure, color balance, and
contrast of an image, removing unwanted elements, and adding text or other graphic elements.
Additionally, advanced techniques such as compositing, masking, and layering can be used to
create more complex images.
It's worth to mention that there are also many free and open-source software available for digital
image editing such as GIMP, Inkscape, and Krita.
There are several different sensor sizes used in digital cameras, including full-frame, APS-C,
Micro Four Thirds, and 1-inch.
Full-frame sensors are the largest, measuring approximately 36mm x 24mm. They are found in
professional-grade DSLR and mirrorless cameras and provide the highest image quality and low-
light performance.
APS-C sensors are slightly smaller than full-frame, measuring approximately 22.5mm x 15mm.
They are found in many mid-range DSLR and mirrorless cameras. APS-C sensors offer a good
balance of image quality and size, making them popular for both still and video work.
Micro Four Thirds sensors are even smaller than APS-C, measuring approximately 17.3mm x
13mm. These sensors are found in mirrorless cameras, and their small size allows for more
compact camera bodies.
JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group): This is the most widely used image format
for digital photography. It uses a lossy compression algorithm, which means that some
image quality is lost when the file is compressed. However, the compression also results
in much smaller file sizes, making it easier to share and store digital photos.
RAW: This is a file format that stores all of the data captured by a camera's sensor,
without any compression or processing. This results in large file sizes, but also allows for
greater flexibility in post-processing the image. RAW files are often used by professional
photographers because they offer more control over the final image.
PNG (Portable Network Graphics): This is a lossless image format that uses a different
type of compression than JPEG. It is often used for images that require transparent
backgrounds or for images with sharp lines.
TIFF (Tagged Image File Format): This is a lossless image format that is often used in
professional photography and printing. It supports a wide range of color depths and is
suitable for high-quality image reproductions.
Memory cards: These are small, portable storage devices that are inserted into a camera
or computer to store digital photographs. They come in a variety of sizes and types,
including SD, CF, and XQD cards.
Hard drives: These are larger storage devices that can store a large number of
photographs. They can be connected to a computer or camera to transfer and store
images.
Cloud storage: This is a method of storing photographs on remote servers that can be
accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. This allows for easy sharing and
access to photographs, but also raises concerns about privacy and security.
Color correction is another important editing technique, which can be used to adjust the overall
color balance of an image, or to make specific color adjustments to certain areas of an image.
This might include adjusting the brightness, contrast, saturation, or hue of an image.
Another important technique is exposure adjustment, which can be used to change the overall
brightness of an image. This might include adjusting the shutter speed, aperture, or ISO settings
on a camera, or using editing software to adjust the exposure levels after the image has been
taken.
Digital manipulation refers to more advanced editing techniques that involve changing the
content of an image. This might include removing or adding elements, compositing multiple
images together, or making other changes to the image that are not possible in traditional
photography. Some examples of digital manipulation are removing blemishes, wrinkles, acne,
object or person from the image, adding makeup, changing hair color, sky replacement, etc.
It's important to note that digital manipulation should be used responsibly and ethically, and not
to mislead or deceive the audience. Misuse of digital manipulation can lead to mistrust and loss
of credibility in the photography industry.
Brightness refers to the overall lightness or darkness of an image. Adjusting the brightness of an
image can be used to make an image appear brighter or darker.
Contrast refers to the difference in brightness between the lightest and darkest areas of an image.
Adjusting the contrast of an image can be used to make the colors in an image appear more
vibrant or to make the details in an image more pronounced.
Midtones refer to the tones in an image that fall between the highlights and shadows. Adjusting
the midtones can be used to control the overall brightness and contrast of an image.
Color tones refer to the overall color of an image, and can include adjustments to the hue,
saturation, and luminance of an image. Color tones can be adjusted to make an image appear
more vibrant or to correct color imbalances.
When editing and digital manipulation, these adjustments are usually made using adjustment
layers in editing software like Photoshop, Lightroom, etc. These adjustment layers allow the user
to make changes to the image without affecting the original image data, and can also be adjusted
or removed later if needed.
It's important to note that these adjustments should be done with care, as oversaturating or
overadjusting can lead to unrealistic or unnatural looking images. It's also important to keep in
mind the purpose and audience of the image, as certain adjustments may be more appropriate for
certain situations.
Basics of Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop is a popular image editing software that can be used for a wide range of tasks,
from basic editing to advanced digital manipulation. Some of the basic features and tools of
Photoshop include:
Layers: Photoshop uses a layer-based system for editing images, which allows the user
to make changes to an image without affecting the original image data. Each layer can be
edited independently, and can also be turned on and off, adjusted, or deleted as needed.
Selection tools: Photoshop has several different selection tools that can be used to select
specific parts of an image for editing. These include the Marquee tool, Lasso tool, Magic
Wand tool, and the new Select and Mask tool.
Brush tool: The Brush tool can be used to paint or retouch parts of an image. It can be
used to add or remove color, adjust brightness, or apply special effects.
Clone Stamp tool: This tool allows you to clone or copy parts of an image and paste
them into another area. This can be useful for removing unwanted objects, blemishes, or
other elements from an image.
Healing Brush tool: Similar to the Clone Stamp tool, the Healing Brush tool can be used
to remove unwanted elements from an image, but it does so by blending the cloned pixels
with the surrounding pixels for a more natural look.
Adjustment Layers: These are special layers that can be used to make adjustments to an
image, such as brightness, contrast, color balance, and more. These layers can be adjusted
or removed later without affecting the original image data.
Type tool: This tool allows you to add text to an image, which can be useful for adding
captions, labels, or other text-based elements.
Layer Mask: These are special layers that can be used to hide or reveal parts of a layer,
which can be useful for making selective adjustments to an image.
Action: Photoshop has the ability to record a set of commands, known as an action, and
then play it back as many times as needed. This feature makes it easy to apply the same
set of edits to multiple images.
These are just a few of the basic features and tools of Photoshop, but it also offers many
advanced features such as advanced compositing, 3D modeling, motion graphics, and more. It's a
powerful software and mastering it can take time and practice, but it can be a valuable tool for
photographers, graphic designers, and other professionals who work with images.
Vector tools: CorelDRAW uses vector-based graphics, which are made up of lines and
shapes, rather than pixels. This allows for graphics that can be resized without losing
quality, and also enables the use of more advanced features such as powerclips,
envelopes, and more.
Pen and Shape tools: CorelDRAW has a variety of tools for creating and editing vector
shapes, including the Pen tool, which can be used to create custom shapes, and the Shape
tool, which can be used to create basic shapes such as rectangles, circles, and polygons.
Text tools: CorelDRAW has a variety of text tools that can be used to add text to a
design. The text can be edited and formatted, including adjusting the font, size, color, and
more.
Layers: CorelDRAW uses a layer-based system for editing graphics, which allows the
user to make changes to an image without affecting the original image data. Each layer
can be edited independently, and can also be turned on and off, adjusted, or deleted as
needed.
Effects: CorelDRAW includes a wide variety of effects that can be applied to text and
shapes, such as drop shadows, glows, and more.
Bitmap tools: CorelDRAW also includes tools for working with bitmap images, such as
the Bitmap tool which can be used to convert vector graphics to bitmaps and the Power
Trace tool which can be used to convert bitmaps to vector graphics.
Symbols: CorelDRAW has a symbol library that allows the user to save and reuse
commonly used shapes and graphics.
Transform: CorelDRAW has a variety of transform tools that can be used to move,
rotate, and scale shapes, text, and other objects.
Macros: CorelDRAW has the ability to record a set of commands, known as a macro,
and then play it back as many times as needed. This feature makes it easy to apply the
same set of edits to multiple graphics.
These are just a few of the basic features and tools of CorelDRAW, but it also offers many
advanced features such as advanced typography, color management, and more. It's a powerful
software and mastering it can take time and practice, but it can be a valuable tool for graphic
designers, illustrators, and other professionals who work with vector graphics.
Viewing images: Office Picture Manager allows users to view images in a variety of
formats, including JPEG, BMP, and TIFF. Users can also view images in a slide show
format, and can zoom in and out to view images in more detail.
Creating albums: Office Picture Manager allows users to organize their images into
albums, which can be useful for grouping related images together. Users can also create
tags for images, which can be used to search for images more easily.
Sharing images: Office Picture Manager allows users to share images with others by
emailing or printing them, or by sending them to a web-based photo sharing service.
Folder management: Office Picture Manager allows users to navigate through folders
and file systems to find and view images. Users can also create new folders or move
images to different folders.
Picture Correction: Office Picture Manager includes tools for adjusting images, such as
the red-eye removal tool and the sharpen/soften tool.
Batch Process: Office Picture Manager allows users to perform batch processing of
images, such as resizing or renaming multiple images at once.
Picture Layout: Office Picture Manager allows users to add a picture layout to images,
which can include a frame, a caption, or other elements.
It's worth noting that Microsoft Office Picture Manager was discontinued with Office 2013, and
it's not available on Office 365 or later versions of Office, But alternatives like Windows Photo
Viewer, Photos app on Windows 10 or other third-party software can be used for similar tasks.
Photojournalism also plays a crucial role in bringing attention to social and political issues.
Photographers have been instrumental in highlighting the plight of marginalized communities,
raising awareness of human rights abuses, and shining a light on the many issues facing our
world today. From the Civil Rights Movement in the United States to the ongoing refugee crisis,
photojournalists have been on the front lines, providing a visual record of these important issues
and helping to bring about change.
Despite the many challenges facing the field of photojournalism, including the rise of citizen
journalism and the decline of traditional news outlets, photojournalism remains an essential part
of our world. Photographers continue to provide a visual record of the world around us, bringing
attention to important issues, and telling the stories of the people who shape our world. As such,
it is important to support and encourage the work of photojournalists, and to continue to value
the role they play in our society.
In conclusion, Photojournalism is an important medium that has the ability to capture and
communicate the most important and meaningful events of our time. It plays a crucial role in
documenting history, raising awareness of social and political issues, and storytelling. Despite
In the 20th century, photojournalism continued to evolve and expand. The Spanish Civil War in
the 1930s was one of the first conflicts to be extensively covered by photographers, and the
images produced during this time had a profound impact on public opinion. World War II was
also heavily covered by photographers, with images of the conflict appearing in newspapers and
magazines around the world.
After World War II, photojournalism continued to play a vital role in informing the public about
major events around the world. One of the most iconic images of the 20th century is the
photograph of a lone protester facing down tanks in Tiananmen Square in 1989. This image was
widely distributed and helped bring attention to the Chinese government's violent response to
student-led protests.
In India, Photojournalism has a long history, it has been a powerful medium that has captured
and communicated the most important and meaningful events of the time. From India's
independence movement to the many conflicts and struggles that have shaped the country in the
decades since, Indian photojournalists have been on the front lines, providing a visual record of
these important events. The images captured by photographers during India's partition in 1947,
for example, helped bring attention to the human cost of the conflict and the suffering of millions
of people caught in the crossfire.
In recent years, the rise of digital technology and the internet has had a major impact on the field
of photojournalism. Today, photographers can share their images with a global audience in real-
time, and online news outlets and social media platforms have made it possible for anyone to be
a "citizen journalist." While these changes have brought new opportunities and challenges,
photojournalism remains an essential part of our world, and the work of professional
photographers continues to be vital in informing the public and raising awareness of important
issues.
The truth of the matter is that the photograph is a posed one, Capa himself confessed it later. He
had asked the soldiers to re-enact the scene of a fallen soldier. It was a common practice in the
early days of photojournalism to stage scenes, in order to create visually compelling images that
would capture the attention of readers and bring attention to the plight of soldiers and civilians
caught in the crossfire.
War Photojournalism
War photojournalism is a type of photojournalism that documents conflicts and their impact on
individuals and communities. It is a powerful medium that has the ability to capture the horrors
of war and bring attention to the human cost of conflict. War photojournalists often work in
dangerous and difficult conditions, and their images provide a visual record of the events and the
people who are affected by war.
War photojournalism also plays a crucial role in raising awareness of human rights abuses and
the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire. Photographers have been instrumental in
highlighting the suffering of civilians in war-torn countries, and their images have been used to
raise awareness of the impact of war on everyday people. This is particularly true of modern
conflicts, where the line between combatant and non-combatant is often blurred and civilians are
disproportionately affected.
In addition to its importance in documenting and raising awareness of important issues, war
photojournalism also plays a key role in storytelling. War photographers use their images to tell
the stories of the people and events they cover, bringing a human element to the news and
allowing readers to connect with the subject on a personal level. This is particularly true of
feature photography, where photographers take the time to tell the story of an individual or group
of people, capturing their hopes, dreams, and struggles.
Despite the many challenges facing the field of war photojournalism, including the rise of citizen
journalism and the decline of traditional news outlets, it remains an essential part of our world.
Photographers continue to provide a visual record of the world around us, bringing attention to
important issues, and telling the stories of the people who shape our world. As such, it is
important to support and encourage the work of war photojournalists, and to continue to value
the role they play in our society.
In conclusion, War photojournalism is a powerful medium that has the ability to capture and
communicate the most important and meaningful events of our time. It plays a crucial role in
documenting history, raising awareness of human rights abuses, and storytelling. Despite the
challenges facing the field, it remains an essential part of our world and it's important to support
and encourage the work of war photojournalists. It is a reminder that War is not just a political or
military event, it is a human tragedy and it's important for society to remember it.