Take Your Best Shot (Popular Photography): Essential Tips and Tricks for Shooting Amazing Photos

Gorgeous full-color photography how-to book gathers the best photo tips from professionals and amateurs, as well as how to use all the latest technology.

From the shutter-snapping experts at Popular Photography magazine, Take Your Best Shot takes your from camera novice to point-and-shoot pro. Learn how to:

-set up flattering window-lit portraits
-capture breathtaking underwater images
-take eye-defying motion-blur action shots
-shoot surprising abstract compositions 

. . . all with the help of this manual's collection of tips from pro photographers. Take Your Best Shot starts with expansive sections on basic gear and camera functions, and then devotes entire chapters to photographing people, places, and things, offering insightful techniques for taking impressive photos. Includes illustrated step-by-step how-tos and diagrams that break down each shot so it's as easy as 1, 2, 3.

"An excellent roadmap to the joys of photography. Even experienced photographs will find it a vivid reminder of what first sparked their passion for photography."

—Brian Smith, Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer

"What's not to love? Smart, fun, fresh, and hip to history, this is a really hot book that comforts the beginner and challenges the old pro." 

- Anthony Bannon, Director of the George Eastman House, International Museum of Photography and Film.


BRIEF ABOUT AUTHOR :

Miriam Leuchter is the editor of Popular Photography, the world’s largest imaging magazine. She has juried many international photography competitions, and her own photography has been published and exhibited in magazines, newspapers, and art galleries in the United States and Europe.

With more than 2 million readers and over 70 years of expertise, Popular Photography is the world’s largest how-to monthly magazine for image-making enthusiasts. The magazine’s editor are just great how-to writers, they are all talented photographers, who really know how to get the most of any image.

SOME OF THE SAMPLE CUSTOMER REVIEW FROM AMAZON :

1) The perfect book to take you to the next level - I am often asked to recommend a book to help new photographers learn how to do more than simply point, shoot, and hope for the best. The books I have seen so far are either so elementary that they are insulting or just advanced enough that a beginner can not understand them. "Take Your Best Shot" is the perfect book for those ready to take the next step. It is not a cookie cutter recipe for success in every instance, but it gives enough information to get the reader started on the right track, teaching you how to explore the skills needed for each activity. It is not for someone who has never picked up a camera before, but it will take the new photographer who is ready to move away from all-automatic everything to one who can learn how to control their camera for more consistent and predictable results.

By Samuel W. Feinstein on October 27, 2011

2) Best All Around Photo Book for the Price - I have been an avid photographer since the 70's. Over the years I have purchased and read hundreds of photography books and attended a multitude of photo workshops and seminars. No book is as good as this one for the price. Sure you can find books that will cover a specific subject in more detail but you can't find a better general photography book that covers so much material in an easy to understand manner with excellent photographic examples.

Don't think twice this book is well worth the money!

By C. Gaiser on February 17, 2014

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 14.1 MP Digital Camera with 8x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Red)

Panasonic DMC-FH20 Digital Camera Features

The DMC-FH20 sports a powerful 8x optical zoom lens (35mm camera equivalent: 28-224mm). This gives you highly natural expressions from people and animals that you can't get close to. And its slim, compact, pocket-sized body can easily go wherever you do for both everyday snapshots and traveling.

28mm Wide-angle Lens

The 28mm wide-angle lens* lets you easily capture large groups of people indoors or expansive architectural structures and scenes with dynamic width and rich perspective, even from short distances.

* Converted to standard 35mm camera equivalent, at the maximum wide position.

Powerful 8x Optical Zoom

The DMC-FH20 sports a powerful 8x optical zoom lens (35mm camera equivalent: 28-224mm). This gives you highly natural expressions from people and animals that you can't get close to. And its slim, compact, pocket-sized body can easily go wherever you do for both everyday snapshots and traveling.

iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode

When you don't know which mode will give you the best shooting results, or when a sudden photo opportunity pops up and you don't have time to make any settings, simply choose iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode by simply pressing the dedicated button and let the camera do it all for you. You just choose iA Mode, aim at your subject, and shoot. 4 detection and correction functions are simultaneously activated to optimize the settings, so you get stunning photos every time.

HD Movie Recording (1,280 x 720 pixels at 30 fps in Motion JPEG Format)

The DMC-FH20) can record motion images in high-definition (1,280 x 720 pixels at 30 fps in Motion JPEG format). The pixel mixed readout method enables bright motion-image recording even in low-light settings. The DMC-FH20 can also record full-size motion images in WVGA (848 x 480 pixels at 30 fps) or standard motion images in VGA (640 x 480 pixels at 30 fps) and QVGA (320 x 240 pixels at 30 fps). Shop Amazon Camera - New Arrivals from our Top Brands (Canon, Sony, Nikon, Dropcam)

FEATURE : 

• 14.1-Megapixel High-Resolution CCD: The DMC-FH20 features a 1/2.33" CCD with effective 14.1-megapixel high-resolution.
• 2.7" 230,000-Dot High-Resolution LCD: The DMC- FH20 features a 2.7" 230,000-dot high-resolution Intelligent LCD and High-angle Mode.
• 28mm Wide-Angle 8x Optical Zoom Lens in a Compact Body: The DMC-FH20 features a newly developed 28mm wide-angle high-quality LUMIX DC VARIO lens
• Up to 16.9x Extra Optical Zoom: The Extra Optical Zoom uses the center of the CCD to further extend the powerful 8x optical zoom
• Sonic Speed AF: The Sonic Speed AF system in the DMC-FH20 has a maximum speed of approx. 0.35 second for auto focusing.

SOME OF THE SAMPLE CUSTOMER REVIEW FROM AMAZON :

1) Great point & shoot - Purchased camera for an upcoming trip. Wanted a point and shoot that was pocket sized and took good pictures. I was going to get a Canon Powershot but then started looking at Panasonic. I feel like I got more for my money. Maybe because Panasonic is not yet a household name in cameras. A few clicks online will reveal they are "joined at the hips" with Leica.

Using the iA mode delivered great pictures everytime. Did not take a bad picture yet, the smarts built-in really work! Focusing time is short, but you have to let the camera focus before pressing all the way. Zoom is great for such a small package, but image stabilization is a must without tripod. Also has wide angle lens which is a plus, not readily available in competing models. Have not played with any of the scene modes, I let iA handle that. And when I'll need the manual modes, I'll be reaching for the dSLR where I can play with buttons.

Played briefly with the video mode and was happily surprised. It is not a camcorder replacement, but it is better than expected. Sreen is large and bright under all experienced conditions so far. It does have a mode that adjusts LCD brightness to ambient light automatically. I do miss the viewfinder but I would trade a bigger LCD for a poor viewfinder anytime. Great point and shoot camera so far, good optics, it does what it should. Will probably look for a second battery soon, but I am a little confused at moment on which one to buy.

By Amazon Customer on May 2, 2010

2) Only just the best compact camera on the market for me - I've used a Canon for many years, recently bought the ultra compact Canon SP790IS. My original Canon was slowly giving out. Did research and checked out the FH1,FH3, FP8 and the FH20 along with the Canon 790. Received this camera several days ago, this FH20 rocks. Pictures are really very, very good. I couldn't believe it. The size is great, ease of use is beyond belief. I'm an artist and use my camera to take pictures of lighthouses, old barns and interesting buildings. This camera gives me what I'm looking for and more. So glad I took the plunge. As the first reviewer said she read a test of the FH20 by a pro photograher, I read the same article and it's all GOOD. I'd receommend this camera above all others. Thanks Amazon, once again you came through for me as did Panasonic.

By Doris C. Moran on May 12, 2010

Nikon COOLPIX S3500 20.1 MP Digital Camera with 7x Zoom - Silver (Certified Refurbished)

Simplicity. Reach. Style.Get more from a photo op with a versatile 7x optical zoom NIKKOR glass lens, 20.1-megapixels of resolution and smart features that make shooting attractive, clearer photos and 720p HD videos a breeze. Everything you need to make the moment last.Photo of a smiling blonde woman in the park holding the S3500Be ready for success at every photo op with the stylish, easy to use COOLPIX S3500. Whether you're shooting a close-up portrait of your favorite pet or a wide group shot of your closest friends, the COOLPIX S3500's 7x optical zoom NIKKOR glass lens will capture beautiful, clearer 20.1-megapixel photos and 720p HD videos. Lens-shift Vibration Reduction helps minimize the blur caused by camera shake, while Subject Tracking locks on to moving subjects and keeps focus right where you want it. When you don't want to fuss with camera settings, Scene Auto Selector automatically picks the best settings for your shot. Let your camera do the work while you enjoy living in the moment. Don't sweat a little camera shakeVibration Reduction helps keep the shot steady, even if your hands are notHave you ever caught a great moment with your camera but then discovered your shot is blurry because of camera shake? The COOLPIX S3500's lens-shift Vibration Reduction helps keep the shot steady, even if your hands are not. Say goodbye to blurry photos, shaky videos and tripods. Capture the sights and sounds720p HD videos with sound bring your memories to lifeWhen a photo a... Shop Amazon - Movers & Shakers in Camera & Photo


FEATURE :

• This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished, shows limited or no wear.
• Includes all original accessories plus a 90-day warranty.
• 7x wide-angle NIKKOR glass lens.
• 720p HD video recording.
• Vibration Reduction helps keep shots steady.

SOME OF THE SAMPLE CUSTOMER REVIEW FROM AMAZON :

1) Surprisingly Good For The Price - I have taken more photos since writing the initial review and am even more impressed with this little camera now than I was then. I am amazed how clear and sharp the photos are right out of the camera.

I can't do as much with this camera as I can with my Canon 60d DSLR. The latter has much better zoom capability, is much better for action shots, etc., but it costs many times more than this one so you would expect it to do more. However, for the typical family shots and street photography, this camera is a much closer second place to the 60d than I realized when I wrote the first review.

And the fact that you can carry it in your pocket, always ready for use, is a huge plus. I now find myself using this camera for family activities much more than I do the 60d.

********************************************************************************************

My present primary camera is a DSLR Canon 60d. However, with its lenses, it is much too large and heavy to carry wherever I go when I am out and about. I wanted a small camera I could carry in my pocket, one that took very good photos and did not break the bank. The Coolpix S3500 fills that need very nicely.

Compared to my Canon 60d. which cost many times more what I paid for the S3500, it is a 2 or a 3. But considering what you get for your money, the S3500 is a strong 5.

The photos are clear and sharp, the colors (I have it set in "standard") are very natural appearing, and it handles "noise" up to ISO 1600 about as well as any camera.

At ISO 100 & 200 there is negligible noise and an increasing amount thereafter. But even at 1600 the noise removal software I use cleans up the photo as easily as it does my Canon 60d. Quite surprising for a camera of this price.

This camera has just about anything anyone could want for casual photography. And it takes good photos.

One thing I especially like is that it uses standard SD cards. I'm using an 8GB card so that I will have space if I want to shoot some video. The greater capacity of the card, the more photos and video clips it will hold.

Also, both surprising and welcome, is the 7X optical zoom. Typically cameras of this type, even more expensive ones, have an optical zoom of only 4X or 5X.

(Note: This camera, like virtually all others, has both optical zoom capability and an option of digital zoom. My advice is to make use of the optical zoom of 7X and turn off the digital zoom since all that does is to crop the photo to make the subject look larger. With the optical zoom you can actuallyincrease the size of whatever you are shooting.)

A Quick Start guide comes with the camera. Don't be fooled by the thickness of the book, there are only a few pages in English.h The rest of the book is repeating the same basic information in 3 other languages.

2 DVD's come with camera. One, and the most important to me, was the user manual. It too includes 4 languages, but you can download and save the language portion that you want. It is well done and I recommend using it when you set up the camera rather than the very basic quick start guide. Don't install everything on your computer, just the portion in the language of your choice.

The second DVD gives you tools for processing, printing, and uploading to Facebook your photos. I didn't install it because I have other software that I use.

Also in the box are a hand strap, battery, and charging device, there is no SD card, but the camera does have 25MB of internal memory that will allow you to take a few photos while you get an SD card, and no case. You charge the battery when it is in the camera using the cable.

If you are looking for a small, relatively inexpensive camera for family photos and other casual shooting, this camera deserves very serious consideration. I'm glad I chose it even though I thought I would never own any brand except Canon.

By Kenneth Depree TOP 1000 REVIEWERVINE VOICE on July 2, 2013

2) Exceeds expectations - The camera exceeded my expectations. I actually was able to take pictures of people moving without the picture coming out blurry. Also the quality of the picture is so beautiful.

By Christine Belli on May 11, 2013

Fujifilm FinePix S9400W / S9450W - 16.2 Megapixel CMOS, 50x Zoom, WiFi Digital Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD Display - White (Certified Refurbished)

The Fujifilm FinePix S9400W/S9450W Digital Camera is a bridge-style point-and-shoot featuring a 16.2 Megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor that is capable of producing high-resolution stills and full HD 1080i movies with notable low-light sensitivity to ISO 12800. The built-in Fujinon 50x optical zoom lens provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 24-1200mm, covering wide-angle to super telephoto perspectives to suit working in nearly any shooting scenario. Lens-shift type image stabilization helps to maintain sharp imagery throughout the zoom range by compensating for the effects of camera shake. When recording movies, a dedicated 5-axis image stabilization system can be employed to further eliminate the appearance of motion for crisp, clear recordings. The 3.0-inch LCD monitor provides a large, bright area ideal for scrolling through imagery while the electronic viewfinder provides eye-level viewing capabilities. Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows for instant sharing of images directly to an Android or iOS mobile device, and is easily accessible via a dedicated Wi-Fi button on the back of the camera. When used in combination with the free Fujifilm Camera Remote app, you can browse the image contents from the camera and transfer photos and movies directly to a mobile device or PC or upload straight to social networking and image sharing sites. Shop Amazon Cameras - Get 2% Back in Rewards on Select Cameras & Lenses

FEATURE : 

• This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished, shows limited or no wear, and includes all original accessories plus a 90-day warranty.
• 16.2MP 1/2.3-inch backlit CMOS sensor.
• 50x optical zoom (24-1200mm).
• Display: 3.0-inch, approx. 460K-dot LCD with EVF.
• Full HD movie capture (1920 x 1080, 60i), Wireless connectivity.

SOME OF THE SAMPLE CUSTOMER REVIEW FROM AMAZON :

1) The camera seems to work great so far - The camera seems to work great so far. I was wanting something in between a point and shoot and professional camera. This is pretty close to what I wanted. It has multiple settings to use, and is fairly user friendly. Really the only complaint is that it didn't come with a lens cap. It didn't have a user's manual either, but I was able to get online and find that. I know it was refurbished, but it said it came with all original accessories; so I assumed it came with one. I will have to make a separate purchase for that, but overall I am satisfied with the camera.

By rebecca on January 12, 2015

2) Nice bridge camera with lots of features for the buck - I bought the FinePix S9450W for an upcoming trip so I'd have time to learn the features before really needing them for wildlife and scenery and so I'd be able to transfer pics to an iPad for backup. So far I am impressed with the zoom capabilities, the easy wifi image transfer (link to app and instructions: http://app.fujifilm-dsc.com/app/camera_app/pc/en/), and the use of standard AA batteries (can use rechargeable AA batteries). Camera feels solid and it is easy to hold and steady. Two levers control the zoom. Enough different shooting modes to satisfy an intermediate photographer wanting to experiment. Intuitive settings menu. I like having both the LCD display and the eye viewfinder. Picture quality seems excellent in most situations. Haven't used the movie mode yet. And the price of this refurb was fantastic and other than what I note below, you'd never know the camera was a factory refurbished model. Included an owners manual on a CD and USB connector.

Although the listing said it came with all original accessories, it DID NOT COME come with a lens cap (yes, that was included with the original). I contacted DealFisher and they said the cap was not included with the refurb and offered to give a complete refund and cover shipping. Fair enough, but I wanted to keep the camera. So after looking around to confirm what fit, I purchased a lens cap (JJC LC-49 fits) for a few bucks and still feel like I got a good deal on the camera. As of the time of posting this review, the listing still incorrectly says "includes all original accessories." That should be corrected and a link to the appropriate cap would be nice! Also the description incorrectly says there is a "dedicated Wi-Fi button on the back of the camera." That is incorrect--to transfer by wifi you have to go into playback mode and then into the menu to access the transfer protocols. You also have to install the app on your tablet or phone. Not difficult, but not exactly one-button easy either.

By TL on January 17, 2015

Philips CAM110BL/37 10 MP Digital Camera with CMOS Sensor and 5 x Digital Zoom (Black)

Gemini Philips HD Pocket CamCorder - Sporting Goods.


FEATURE : 

• Shoot clearer and steadier videos with advanced anti-shake.
• Relive memories in great detail with full HD videos.
• Up to 10 megapixel resolution for high quality photos.
• Instant video editor for simple editing on the camcorder.
• Quick sharing for emailing and posting on Facebook/YouTube.

SOME OF THE SAMPLE CUSTOMER REVIEW FROM AMAZON :

1) cruise ship - My Philips CAM was excellent when we use it to record our vacation on a cruise ship. The sound came out perfectly, the sharpness of the back ground was great. The color came out beautiful. It's small fir perfect in my pants pocket, my handbag, it's awesome to have.

By Liesa Chapman on March 17, 2012

2) bang for your buck - this gets five stars because i only paid like $20 because the flip out usb plug wouldn't stay in. i threaded a bolt into the tripod mount that holds the usb plug in, so if yours breaks, don't worry, it's an easy fix. actually, i would give this product five stars anyway, because it goes from off to shooting in about two seconds, and shoots awesome video for such a small camera. don't expect cinema quality, and it's terrible in low light, but what do you expect from a tiny sensor? want to see this camera in action? i shot the entirety of this music video (http://youtu.be/_1JuF_AJmN4) on it, as you can see, in VERY mixed light conditions. fresh!

By david hazardous on December 10, 2013

Beautiful looking Samsung NX2000 20.3MP CMOS Smart WiFi Compact Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with 20-50mm Lens and 3.7" Touch Screen LCD (White)

With the Samsung SMART CAMERA NX2000 you’re telling stories, not just taking pictures. Its ultra-sensitive 20.3MP APS-C CMOS Sensor allows you to create images full of detail with colors that fire up the imagination. The spacious 3.7” (93.8mm) WVGA touch screen gives you plenty of room to hone your craftsmanship, and variety of Smart Modes and manual controls make it ideal for photography enthusiasts like you. Shop Amazon - Hot New Releases in Camera & Photo


FEATURE :

• 20.3MP CMOS Sensor.
• SMART features - Social Media Upload, E-mail, Direct Link, Mobile Link, PC Auto-backup, Remote Viewfinder, All share, Cloud Service.
• Hybrid Autofocus System.

SOME OF THE SAMPLE CUSTOMER REVIEW FROM AMAZON :

1) A very good mirrorless DSLR like compact camera - I have tested my new Samsung NX2000 for 2 weeks and its overall performance and picture quality is not bad, actually very good. I was shopping a DSLR like mirrorless compact camera that provide light weight, changeable lens and good picture quality camera. I have two choices either Sony NEX5T (just released this month) or the Samsung NX2000. Believe me, you won't find too much reviews and details info on the website because both cameras are new. Some info and spec I found on line actually was incorrect and the reviewers did not really done a hand on review. Most of them were just review the camera spec sheet and criticize its good and bad. I concluded Sony NEX5T is a better mirror less camera than NX2000 but its price tag still consider steep when adding up the optional lens, accessory flashlight. It will cost more than a grand. If budget is also a factor of consideration, the NX2000 can fit in perfectly. The NX bundle lens kit cost less than $800.

So far the operation and picture quality of the NX2000 are pretty good. Its APS-C sensor definitely can react to more lights. The high ISO performance is very good below 6400 without noise. It is still tolerable if higher than 6400. The noise reduction from this camera is very good. The contrast AF is not bad, believe me it is not fast but really not bad. The 8fps continue shoot was surprising fast and perfect for motion sport. 20-50mm kit lens without image stabilization performs pretty well and the 50-200mm zoom lens with OIS is excellent.
Pro:
Price fits budget buyer who wants good quality picture and changeable lens compact camera.
Easy and clear in camera menu and touch screen with less button (I consider less button is a pro but some user don't)
Fast 8fps continue shooting with high accuracy to catch the perfect moment.
Big APS-C sensor gives better quality pictures. Combines with the high ISO low noise reduction, this camera can shoot without flash.
Many optional Samsung lens to choose ( I prefer buying the 16mm wide angle lens too)
Con:
Contrast AF not Phase detection (the speed is still acceptable to me)
No optional EVF, it is very difficult to see the screen under sun light. Samsung, how can we take a good photo under the sun light when the LCD screen is totally invisible by the reflection. I think Samsung needs to consider an option EVF that can be attached to the hot shoe like Sony did on the NEX.
Battery life is also unacceptable. I highly suggest purchase 2 or 4 for back up and you need a aftermarket wall charger.

Update Oct 1 2013: After continue usage of this camera, I found out the LCD screen under the bright sun light is really a problem. Although I can adjust the LCD brighter to make it easier to see, it will drain the battery faster. Samsung really needs to make an optional EVF to attach it on the hotshoe as soon as possible. I don't mind to spend couple hundreds to buy an optional EVF for this camera but seems Samsung is not listening to the feedback of the consumers. No tilting LCD panel + no optional EVF made the outdoor bright light shooting not too much fun.

Update Dec 4 2014: When I keep using this camera everyday on street, indoor, outdoor sport and car show, this camera continues give me the good quality result. I have no idea why some people gave one or two stars on the review. Some said the price on Amazon is more expensive than Costco then gave one star to the product. It seems it is not fair to this product. Some complained the auto focus is slow, I know this camera doesn't have a super fast AF focus with phase detection, but the speed is not too bad at all. The point & shot cameras are no way to compare. Remember this camera is not P&S, it is a DSLR like mirrorless camera. If you don't know how to use the M,A,S,P mode and its setting, you either don't buy this camera or go to take a photography lesson. Because I am sure if you can't take good pictures with this camera, it is either your skill or haven't learned the full function of this camera.

By cutie19 on September 23, 2013

2) Samsung NX2000 20.3MP - I started with a Minolta SLR back in the early 70's, graduated to a Nikon SLR and a complete dark room. Did a lot of neat stuff "push-processing" film to increase the speed, then to color. Last 8 - 10 years a lot of digital gear, printing software and that was huge in terms of flexibility.

The Samsung NX2000 has exceeded my expectations, which is loaded with features you might expect to pay a much higher price for a much larger and heavier body. Some basic software (included in this purchase) and I was off and running. Very user friendly. 20 to 30 minutes with the manual and I was uploading to my iPad, Facebook and into files for storage. 15 year old grandson was able to do same with this camera.
Can not say enough about how user friendly this camera is.

By Paul Rohrbach on January 3, 2014