In the last few years digital cameras and 'digital darkrooms' in the form of computers and image manipulation software have revolutionized modern photography. Truly professional results are tantalizingly within reach of all - and The Digital Photography Handbook shows you how to combine photographic flair with digital expertise to achieve them. Part one looks at the cameras, the lenses and other hardware accessories, explains the technology behind them and helps you choose exactly what you need. Part two explores the art of photography itself, from composing a shot to considerations such as depth of field, focus or exposure. It also examines a series of themes such as landscapes, weddings and holidays providing tips and ideas for how to photograph them. Part three moves into the 'digital darkroom'. Here, expert instruction will give you the confidence to correct common problems and get the most out of your images, while a series of masterclasses focuses on professional image manipulation techniques and artistic effects, breaking them down into step-by-step stages for you to follow. Finally, part four looks at printing your photographs - whether to paper or on to the web. For those interested in taking their photography a little further, it explores building a portfolio and offers advice on copyright and selling your pictures. In this new, updated edition Doug Harrman includes the very latest developments in digital technology, equipping you with everything you need to become an accomplished 21st-century photographer.

About the Author

Doug Harman has over 20 years' experience as a technical journalist and digital technology tester. He has written extensively for numerous digital photography magazines and websites including Amateur Photographer, Total Digital Photography and What Digital Camera.

Table of Contents

GOING DIGITAL: THE BASICS - GETTING STARTED. The Digital Camera: Camera Features Explained; Types of Digital Camera; How Many Megapixels?; Memory and Memory Cards; A Buyer's Guide; Starting To Use Your Camera; Care, Maintenance and Cleaning. Lenses: Zoom Lenses; Fixed Lenses; Changing Lenses. The Computer: Which Computer?; Computer Accessories; Getting Connected. Accessories: Which Software?; Which Printer?; Which Scanner?; Preventing Camera Shake; Extra Flash; Extra Storage; Light Meters; Batteries and Power. USING YOUR DIGITAL CAMERA - TAKING GREAT PICTURES. Photo Techniques: Composition; Focus; Depth of Field; Exposure; White Balance; Creative Flash; Low Light; Close-Ups; Black and White. Photography Ideas: Portraits and People; Still Life; Reportage; Travel; Architecture; Landscapes; Sports and Action; Weddings; Gardens and Flowers; Children; Pets and Animals; Abstracts. THE DIGITAL DARKROOM - IMPROVING YOUR IMAGES ON A PC. Basic Digital Techniques: Starting to Use Editing Software; Saving Your Photos; Auto and Quick Fix; Cropping; Straightening; Resizing; Sharpening; Brightening and Darkening Photos; Removing Redeye; Creating Black and White. Advanced Digital Techniques: Colour Management; Adjusting Colours; Levels; Curves; Advanced Curves; Channels; Cloning and Healing; Dodge and Burn; Layers; Masks. Masterclasses: Blurring Backgrounds; Adding Movement; Making Panoramas; Restoring Old Prints; Special Effects; Special Effects Using Filters; Making Art - Poster Effects; Making Art - Painted Effects. OUTPUT - GETTING THE BEST END RESULT. Backing-Up; Printing; Scanning Your Photos; Creating Slide Shows; Emailing Photos; Getting Your Photos On-line; Making A Portfolio; Making Money; Copyright. Glossary. Index. Acknowledgements. The Authors.