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What Basic Equipment Do I Need?

Article Submitted By: The TMB TEAM Obviously you will need some type of camera to get you started. Modern Digital compact cameras can achieve high quality images. However, to be taken seriously and to achieve professional images, you should be using an SLR (Single Lens Reflex, basically a camera with interchangeable lenses). There are two types of camera available, Digital and Film. Film was the only option for capturing high quality images for the commercial photography industry. The results from 35mm SLR’s are Fantastic thanks to massive leaps forward in the quality of film through technological developments in the early eighties. For some very demanding shots very high-end clients will demand medium (120mm and 220mm size roll film) or large Format (normally defined as film in sizes 4”x 5” and larger) only, as this gives superior results in-terms of definition. Digital Cameras are advancing at breath taking rates and braking boundaries every year, it is now generally accepted in the industry that the top end digital cameras can achieve the same level of definition and quality as medium and large format film cameras. Digital Photography offers a huge new set of tools for photographers especially the ability to digitally manipulate and print the images via a Macintosh computer or a PC. Before you choose your format consider that digital is a relatively new technology compared to film and is widely believed that it is going to make film obsolete within the next few years. Computer systems are generally needed to manage and manipulate your images. Most modern computer should have enough power to manage large Image files. Macs are more commonly associated with photography than PC’s in most creative industries but leading image software is available on both. The Industry standard software for image manipulation is Adobe Photoshop.Aperture from apple is also a widely used software package for professional file management. The ability to safely archive your files is something to seriously consider. The use of a disc burner drive for producing DVD’s and CD’s are a good way to back up your files, there is also the use of external hard drives and digital archive tapes and drives. You will also need some way of creating prints, if you are using film than either a dark room is required or a Negative scanner is needed to transfer your images in to computer files. For digital files modern Bubble jet printers can achieve awesome results and are easily integrated in to your computer system. You should also consider your ability to access studios and studio lighting.Lighting systems are sold in a variety of kits from basic starter packs to individual components and massive rigs. Generally two flash heads set with built in modelling and flashlights are a great way to start and can cope with a diverse range of sets and circumstances.

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