15. Bad camera
Pitfall explanation
People don't take crappy photos, camera phones do. This photo typifies too many I saw during my surfing: its hallmarks are an unbelievably strong and defined flash hot spot right smack in the middle of the frame, a hideous cyan colour cast, and lens distortion. Camera phones are fine for emergency shots at accident scenes, photos at keggers to spur your alcohol-blurred memory, candid celebrity shots to sell to the tabloids, grunge-art experimentation, and other fleeting uses. And one day, they may grow into real cameras. For now, however, special occasions still call for the genuine article.
Can this photo be saved?
Nope.
How can I avoid this problem?
Tip 1: Buy a grown-up camera.
Which cameras handle these scenes best?
What it takes: Any camera on our list of top cameras will do, but an ultracompact comes closest to the portability and style of a camera phone.
Suggested models:
Pitfall explanation
People don't take crappy photos, camera phones do. This photo typifies too many I saw during my surfing: its hallmarks are an unbelievably strong and defined flash hot spot right smack in the middle of the frame, a hideous cyan colour cast, and lens distortion. Camera phones are fine for emergency shots at accident scenes, photos at keggers to spur your alcohol-blurred memory, candid celebrity shots to sell to the tabloids, grunge-art experimentation, and other fleeting uses. And one day, they may grow into real cameras. For now, however, special occasions still call for the genuine article.
Can this photo be saved?
Nope.
How can I avoid this problem?
Tip 1: Buy a grown-up camera.
Which cameras handle these scenes best?
What it takes: Any camera on our list of top cameras will do, but an ultracompact comes closest to the portability and style of a camera phone.
Suggested models:
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Sergei Plishka
11/02/2006 01:21 PM
If you do notice a reflective surface in the background, simply take the shot at an angle to the surface so that flash reflects away from the camera instead of right back at it.
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