How to Dramatically Improve Your Digital Photos

Many photographers are surprised after they buy their first digital camera.

All that research on features and megapixels led them to believe their purchase would somehow create the best photos ever.

Unfortunately, great photographs depend on more than just a good camera. Even the best camera, in the hands of one not so skilled in photo composition, will produce only so-so results.

Getting the best digital photos depends upon several factors.

? Your technical knowledge of the camera...are you familiar with all the features and settings?

? Your knowledge of good composition and lighting techniques

? Your knowledge of how to properly edit your photo for final printing or viewing

Reading your owner's manual, and online tutorials, will give you all the technical knowledge you need to properly and efficiently operate your camera.

There are also many books and online tutorials available for learning to properly compose and light your scene. You can also go to any art museum and take a good, technical view of the work on display. Note how they composed each scene and where they placed the main subject. What was their point of view, from up high, down low, or level with the subject. Where did the light come from?

You can learn a great deal from studying the successful work of others. When you develop a detective's eye, you can get some great clues that will speed your path to success.

However, even the greatest digital camera and phenomenal composition and lighting skills will not eliminate your need for some post-shoot editing. You won't find a single top pro photographer who does not do a bit of digital editing after the shot was taken.

I feel like the photos are only 80% done when they come right from your camera. We can really add 20% more quality and WOW! factor with just a few simple edits. Especially sharpening.

Most choose Adobe's Photoshop series for editing their photos. While many think it's difficult to learn, there are many resources available online and off that can assist you. Some people like books, some prefer video.

I've always preferred a blend. I like to look over someone's shoulder and watch them edit. But then I like to have a text reference guide beside me - because inevitably I'll forget one step and get lost. I like a 'crib-notes' or 'recipe style' version with just the basics. I don't like trying to read through some huge text volume.

So remember, buying a great camera is just the beginning of great photo creation. You must also learn a bit about composition, lighting and editing as well.

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