JPEG – compressed quickly in the camera and result in the loss of detail and quality. They store as many images on the memory card as possible.

TIFF- usually uncompressed and offer the opportunity for extensive post-processing. They take up more space and offer the highest image quality level in the camera.

RAW – best option if you want to get the best file for your camera. When shooting in RAW the camera will make adjustments which are permanently embedded into your photos.

DNG- creates a standard raw file format across all manufacturers and cameras. Allows you to store your files for maximum security.

PNG- retain all digital detail and allow for partial or total transparency.

GIF- image quality is not sacrificed, and they maintain transparency and allow for animation.

BMP- large file sizes that save color data and provide a high-quality digital file.

PSD- allows for manipulation on specific individual layers rather than the main image itself. Gives it a greater flexibility and the ability to fine tune an image.

Automatic Mode- Tells your camera to select the best shutter speed, aperture and ISO to get the best shot. Gives you great results in any shooting condition.

Portrait mode- Automatically selects a large aperture which keeps the background out of focus to ensure that the subject is the only thing in focus. Works best when you’re photographing a single subject.

Macro Mode- Allows you to move in closer to your subject to get a close-up picture. Great for shooting small objects.

Landscape mode- Sets camera up with a small aperture to give the scene you’re photographing as much focus as possible. Ideal for capturing shots of wide scenes.

Sports mode- Ideal for photographing moving objects like people playing sports, pets, cars, etc. Attempts to freeze the action by increasing shutter speed.

Night mode- Works when shooting in low-light. Sets your camera to use a longer shutter speed and helps capture details of the background.

Movie mode- Extends your digital camera from capturing still images to capturing moving ones. The quality is not always the best.

Aperture priority mode- You chose the aperture and your camera chooses the rest of the settings. Useful when you are looking to control the depth of field in a shot.

Shutter priority- You select the shutter speed and your camera chooses the rest of the settings. When photographing moving subjects, you might want to choose a fast shutter speed to freeze the motion.

Program mode- Gives you control over flash, white balance, ISO, etc.

Manual mode- You have full control over your camera. Gives you the flexibility to set your shots up as you wish.

1. Always focus on the eyes this will allow the lens to soften the skin.
2. Shoot wide open for a shallow depth of field.
3. Always shoot in RAW to be able to make edits.
4. Shoot in the shade to capture the subjects natural features.
5. Shoot on an overcast day for smooth and pleasing shadows.

1. Lenses in the standard zoom range cover moderate wide angles.
2. Standard zoom lenses are great “walk around” lenses
3. Telephoto lenses compress distance making everything appear closer.
4. Telephoto lenses are excellent for sports, nature and wildlife.
5. Faster telephoto lenses have larger maximum apertures.
6. A fast lens is usually one that has an aperture of f/4, f/2.8 or larger.
7. Less expensive lens give you general apertures.
8. More expensive lenses have a fixed aperture.
9. Wide angle lenses give you a expansive view.
10. Great lenses for landscape photos are 14mm f2/8n and 16-35 f/2.8
11. Wide angle lenses should be used when foreground objects are there.
12. Standard lenses range from 35mm up to 85mm.
13. Prime lenses are just one focal length.
14. Prime lens forces you to think about composition and point of view.
15. Telephoto lenses are great for portraiture.
16. Longer lenses are challenging to track movement.
17. Macro lenses are good for shooting tiny things.
18. Tilt-shift or perspective correction lenses are great for architecture.
19. The cost on the lens depends on several things.
20. All major lens manufacturers satisfy most budgets