Digital cameras and imaging myths busted

By Leonard Goh on 23 June 2008

CNET.com.au paparazzi hunts down the common folklore about digital imaging and bring them to light.

There are many misconceptions about digital cameras and imaging. Some of them have been around since the dawn of photography, while others surfaced with the digital revolution. It's easy to believe the hearsay when you've heard them often enough, but most turn out to be fake when investigated. In this feature, we explore the common myths and legends of digital photography and give you our take on them.

Myth 1: Expensive cameras let me shoot better pictures

We say: this common misunderstanding applies not just to digital cameras, but other items as well — tennis rackets, cars, etc. While an expensive camera usually sports the most advanced features and cutting-edge technology, having all of them doesn't necessarily ensure better pictures. The trick here is to identify the features that matter and match them to the cameras you are planning to buy. A keen eye for aesthetics usually helps, too, but you can go further by applying basic photography techniques. Like some pros will say: it's not the camera that makes the picture, but the person behind it.

 


Myth 2: Higher pixel count equates to better image quality

We say: as much as having more pixel resolution allows for larger prints, it should be noted that the size of the camera sensor also plays a critical role in determining the quality of images. Unfortunately, the sensors in most compact or even prosumer snappers are smaller than those in a digital SLR. When you try to cram too many pixels into a small area, chances are the image quality will be sacrificed. This is easily understood if you look at two similar-resolution pictures — one taken with a compact shooter, the other with a dSLR of the same resolution.

 


Myth 3: Every imaging problem can be solved in Photoshop

Whoever came up with this theory must either be a bad photographer or a very lazy one. Sure, image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop can lighten up some shots, sharpen them or even remove blemishes. But there are limitations to what you can patch up with the software. Besides, you really don't want to edit every one of the 300 images you shot during your vacation. You can save some time by better understanding your camera controls and using the appropriate settings.

 


Myth 4: RAW format is for pros only

We say: we admit it can be slightly intimidating to work with RAW files, but the programs that are bundled with cameras these days make post-processing easier. This gives more creative controls even to amateur photographers. However, do note that the RAW format takes up more space in the flash card, though we think the trade-off is worth it.

 


Myth 5: Scene modes are for dummies and I am not one

We say: it may have been the case in the past, but point-and-shoot cameras now are so advanced that they can recognise facial features and much more. The pre-programmed modes contain information on every kind of photographic situations there are possible, and most cameras are intelligent enough to apply the appropriate settings to achieve optimum exposure, colour and contrast.

 


Myth 6: I need a computer to print my shots

We say: this was the case in the early days when you needed to download your pictures into the computer before you could print them. Nowadays, you can get your images printed at just about anywhere, from photo labs and automated photo kiosks to online print service websites. Most printers now also offer built-in memory card slots for stand-alone printing. Alternatively, if both your printer and camera are PictBridge-compatible, all you have to do is connect the camera to a printer, select the images, and hit Print.

 


Myth 7: Fast memory cards needed for optimum performance

We say: while this may be true for digital SLR cameras, faster memory cards typically don't perform significantly faster in most compact cameras. This is because file sizes that compact cameras handle are relatively small compared to those generated in dSLRs. So keep this in mind the next time a salesperson at the store tries to convince you to fork out more dough for a faster memory card.

 


Myth 8: Auto mode takes lousy pictures

We say: in the past, shooting in the Auto mode usually meant having to compromise on the image quality of your shots, particularly when shooting in challenging situations or low-light environments. But with manufacturers adopting more advanced shooting algorithms in their cameras these days, properly focused and exposed pictures can also be captured using the Auto mode.

 


Myth 9: Third-party batteries work just as well

We say: sure, these juice packs may be cheaper than the cells from the original manufacturer. In some cases, they may even boast higher battery capacities. But before you switch to third-party cells, consider the risks: some of them undergo poor quality control resulting in inconsistent voltage output and an inability to charge properly, which can cause damage to your camera. Not to mention, you will also void the warranty when the camera is damaged due to the use of a third-party battery.

 


Myth 10: Cameras that take AA-sized batteries have lousy battery life
We say: this really depends on the type of AA-sized batteries that are being used for the camera. As digital cameras are high-powered devices, alkalines do not generally last very long. Lithium cells give a much longer usage but cost a lot more than alkalines. High-capacity rechargeable Nickel Metal-Hydride cells (above 2,500mAh) offer the longest battery life (comparable to Lithium-ion rechargeables) and are probably the most economical option out there. Granted that cameras using AA-sized batteries typically give them a bigger footprint, its convenience lies in the fact that you can get replacement batteries just about anywhere.


Topics: digital camera, imaging, myths, photography, pixels, resolution, raw images

Comments (1)

  • adil3130 commented on 05/08/2008 18:49

    i found this digital camera myth busting article quite helful particularly the point raised reguarding aa batteries having a shorter camera life. not true i was actually put off purchasing an aa battery operated camera til now.. thankyou

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