What kind of camera to use

[pepperdrumstix]

I mentioned this on another post but I wanted to ask what type of camera is the best for photographing models with out spending a small fortune? How many mega-pixels, what close-up ratio and best brands? Do you use a tripod? What lighting do you use? Lots of lights plus the flash? Then what photo place to you use to post the photos here? Thank you. Patrick M

Edited April 22, 2011 by pepperdrumstix

[DRG]

I use a 12 mega-pixel Nikon with a tri-pod.

I post pictures from Photo-Bucket

[Aaronw]

The Canon Powershot and Nikon Coolpix cameras both start around $100, either one is a decent all around point and shoot camera that will allow you to take decent photos of models. You can get a tripod at Target or Walmart for $20, which will help you take better photos.

You can get a sheet of white posterboard for $2 which makes a nice clean backdrop for your model (so the desk clutter doesn't take away from the model.

If your budget allows you can certainly get a better camera, but these are both good entry level digital cameras. For close ups don't try to stick the camera right up to the model, use the optical zoom. These are both 12 megapixel cameras so if you use the highest setting you can also zoom in more using a photo editor (which should come with the camera if you don't have something already).

If you do a search this question comes up a lot so you can probably find a lot more info, previously posted.

[Erik Smith]

Yes, there are other threads of photo tips that should be helpful.

I use a Canon SLR with a tripod. The tripod is really necessary for clear photos and will allow you to take pictures in lower light situations.

Most electronics shops will let you try the cameras out. Switch the camera to macro mode (little flower) and try taking pictures of things like text or something you can get a good idea of how sharp the pictures will be.

Any camera of 10+megapixels will be more than enough. Even 5 mp cameras used to suffice - and for posting and regular sized photos (4x6) there is not a huge advantage ( other than digitally "zooming" a picture, or essentially cropping the photo to include only what you want).

For lighting, you should stick to one type of light source as different sources will look different in a photo. That is what the white balance is for. It is auto on most cameras but if you are shooting with incandescent bulbs and flash, the colors will be off (incandecsent is yellowish while flash and fluorescent are blueish).

I use three incandescent bulbs, top and one on each side. I put a piece of white poster board in my paint booth.

There, a rambling semi-explanation to your inquiry.