The team here at Kirk’s Cameras understand that many of our customers are first-timers when it comes to DSLR cameras - and we would like to assist you in understanding ISO sensitivity. Be sure to look out for more of our simple, easy DSLR and Digital Camera tutorials and educational blogs!

ISO (’International Organization for Standardization’) sensitivity expresses the speed of photographic negative materials. Prior to ISO, this was expressed as ASA - standing for American Standards Association. ISO denotes how sensitive the image sensor is to the amount of light that is present at the time of photography. The higher the ISO, the more sensitive the image sensor and therefore the possibility to take pictures in low-light situations. In simple terms, ISO will help you to take images in the best lighting conditions at the best quality possible as per you settings.

In the past, ISO was a far more technical matter. Prior to digital SLR cameras, a photographer would have needed to physically change to a different roll of film if they required a different ISO speed. With the dawn of digital technology, you can simply dial the ISO straight in comfortably and easily - meaning that all of your images are on the one memory card.

The most common ISO speed settings are 100, 200, 400 and 800. Depending on your digital camera model you may also have them in the range of 64, 100, 160, 200, 400, 640, 800, 1600 and perhaps beyond. Some general tips to remember as a beginner would include:

• Use an ISO of 100 or 200 when taking photographs outside in sunny conditions.
• If the sky is overcast or it is evening time, then use an ISO within the range of 400 to 800.
• Night time or in cases of low light you might need to set your digital camera ISO to 1600.

The lower the ISO number, the slower the speed, the higher the ISO number, the faster the speed. A lower ISO will provide better image quality, however a higher ISO will capture the image you desire in low-light conditions. It is all about practice, trial and error in order to get your ISO settings perfect - we recommend you spend time getting the ISO perfect prior to taking your ideal photos. Good luck, and don’t forget to come into Kirk’s Cameras today for all of your camera needs!

For those on the hunt for a DSLR designed for the pros, this could be your next camera. The Nikon D3S is a refinement of the highly popular Nikon D3 - which set the standards high amongst professionals around the world. Perfect for speed photographers and photo journalists, the Nikon D3S is perfect for those looking for an upgrade - including brand new updated features such as a 720p/24fps HD video mode and a new Hi3 extended sensitivity setting that allows stills and movie capture at a whopping ISO 102,400.

Although this clever DSLR may appear chunky, it fits into the hand like a glove, providing comfort and confidence in your skills. The outer design is user friendly; with all buttons and functions smartly marked for ease of use. The features of this exciting DSLR camera are never ending - so we’ve narrowed down some of the most intriguing to add to our list.

• 12.1 Megapixel Sensor
• ISO 200 - 12,800 (ISO 100 - 102,400 in Boost Mode)
• 720p/24 fps HD Movie Mode
• 11fps in Continuous Shooting Mode
• Larger buffer for 48 RAW frames in one burst
• Multi-CAM3500FX Auto Focus sensor
• In-camera RAW Processing
• Nikon EXPEED Image Processor
• Super Fast Operation   
• Auto-focus - tracking by color  
• Scene Recognition System
• Dual Compact Flash card slots
• Compact Flash
• 3.0 Inch LCD monitor
• Virtual horizon - indicates if camera is level
• HDMI HD video output
• Detailed ‘Control Panel’ type display on monitor
• Buttons sealed against moisture
• Dual battery charger as standard

If you believe that this camera sounds perfect for your next project, be sure to come right on in to Kirk’s Cameras in the heart of Ringwood - we will give you in-depth information, reviews and a demonstration of the Nikon D3S.

The Pentax K-x is a new DSLR camera with a twist - it comes in 4 different, vibrant colours! For the avid photographer who is a little creative and wants something that stands out, the Pentax K-x is a fantastic option. But that’s not all - this exciting new camera doesn’t just look good, it’s also packed with amazingly high quality features that can make anyone look like a pro!

The Pentax K-x has a huge, high resolution 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor, featuring sensor-shift Shake Reduction for stabilized image and video capture. A large 2.7 inch LCD screen features Live View with contrast, phase difference and Face Detection. You are readily able to capture widescreen HD video in full 720p resolution at 24 frames per second cinematic frame rate.
 
The body of the Pentax K-x is highly compact, the design allowing for complete one handed operation and comfort when travelling or on the move. To keep it artistic, creative processing and filter modes produce high quality finished images, while offering the ability to explore artistic freedom through unique special effects that are highly user-friendly.
 
If you are one who loves sport, or needs to photograph the kids at footy on the weekend, this camera is perfect for you. Fast 4.7 frames per second capture any speed, whilst a responsive 11 point wide angle  autofocus system focuses quickly and accurately, and can easily track moving subjects. You are able to capture up to almost two thousand shots with universally available, easy-to-find AA lithium batteries - and we all know they’re just sitting around the house!

So, to find out more about the Pentax K-x, give Kirk’s Cameras a call today, and speak to a camera professional about our DSLR range.

The brand new Nikon DS3, released on the 14th of October 2009, is an exciting new option for those photographers looking for something a little higher in skill level. The DSLR camera has been designed for those individuals wishing to meet or beat a professional standard of photography. As the brother of the popular Nikon D3, the DS3 has been modified and perfected to the highest of quality.

With a vastly expanded dynamic range and 1,280 by 720-pixel HD video capture capability, this camera is one of the best. A huge 12.1 megapixel CMOS sensor enables the camera to boast light sensitivity all the way to 12,800 in normal us. An enhanced mode can extend that range all the way to ISO 102,400 for settings with extremely low light. This can also be applied to video capture in high definition.

There are many more exciting functions now available on this ground-breaking DSLR camera, such as an improved 51-point autofocus speed, optimized sensor cleaning functions and a high speed mode that can capture approximately 9 frames per second. If you are interested in capturing video recordings with great sound, an external microphone can be used.

This camera has been heavily perfected to suit the requirements of any avid photographer, and is able to supply you with high quality, rich images and video recordings. Come on in to Kirk’s Cameras today in Ringwood, and we will tell you more about the Nikon DS3.

The Canon EOS 7D is making waves in the photography world - as a fantastic option for those semi-professional camera enthusiasts to take high quality images at a professional level. With its vast array of customisable settings, fancy features and helpful extras, this fantastic DSLR can make anyone with a clue look like a professional photographer.

In terms of weight and carrying the Canon EOS 7D, it is not difficult, however not light weight alike many new DSLR cameras on the market at current. Its stainless steel and polycarbonate body weighs 820 grams without a lens; meaning that you will need a secure, sturdy camera bag to keep it safe and protected at all times when not in use.

Despite weight and appearance, the Canon EOS 7D is a modern DSLR marvel for semi-professionals - incorporating some of the highest quality features available to date. The Canon EOS 7D is the first Canon DSLR camera to feature two D!GIC 4 Image Processors; this giving the camera a large speed boost in order to take 8 JPEG images per second for up to 90 photos. Using this technology also speeds up Live View, for tose who are not so savvy with a viewfinder.

What is also very impressive about the Canon EOS 7D’s features is the 19 cross-type points of autofocus and the boost to its light sensitivity - now ranging from 100 to 6400 ISO and can be pushed out to 12,800 ISO if required. Image noise is also improved in this DSLR camera, with little noise evident even in photos taken at 1600 ISO.

Even with all of these exciting technical features, the Canon EOS 7D is obtaining most of its popularity via the full High-Definition video shooting mode - which the DSLR handles perfectly well. Video can be recorded at a full HD rate of 1080p and at 30, 25 or 24 frames per second for smooth results. The in-built microphone is sufficient, however some professionals may feel the need to use an external microphone. The Canon EOS 7D, when used well, can capture extremely high-quality, film like video in a matter of seconds.

In addition, a Picture Style button on the back of the camera lets you switch between nine different creative colour styles in a quick fasion. A Q button shows your current settings on the screen, and if you press the RAW/JPEG button and the camera will take the following photo in both formats. Clicking on the Info Button twice brings a digital level onto the screen to ensure the horizon appears as it should in your landscape photos.

So, if you are looking for a semi-professional digital SLR camera the Canon EOS 7D is perfect for you. Come on in to Kirk’s Cameras today, and we will give you a demonstration and some more facts about this great DSLR.

As Olympus’s most recent DSLR camera, the E-450 is being highly spoken about! With its ultra compact design and new, exciting technology, this model is a true update of the E-420. Olympus has designed the E-450 to be user friendly, creative and of the best quality available.

This wonderful camera is great for travelling, day trips, or whatever you can imagine! It is light, small and will fit into your bag without taking up all of the space. Perfect for a holiday, or the kid’s sporting events on the weekend. And - it still takes a rich, sharp and great photo.

So, what makes this new DSLR so much fun? Olympus has included some new features in this modern camera, including an updated imaging processor engine and three of Olympus’s most popular art filters - these being Pop Art, Soft Focus and Pinhole. There is no need for post-shoot editing with the E-450, as you can use and take your images with the filter in action!

With a great range of diverse lenses to suit any level of photographer, with any interests, the E-450 is a stand-out from the crowd. Get creative, and come on in to see the team at Kirk’s Cameras today, and we’ll give you a short demonstration of this fun new DSLR camera!

The Nikon D5000 is an ideal choice to consider for all entry-level photographers, or simply anyone searching to upgrade from a point and shoot to a DSLR to enhance their photographic experience. Let’s read about what Nikon can offer us with the new D5000…

The D5000 now features a diverse 450 degree vari-angle LCD monitor that can be viewed in normal position against the camera back or swung out and rotated or tilted. This wonderful feature allows simple viewing from virtually any perspective or angle desired, assisting entry level camera-users with trickier shooting points. This monitor can be stowed away with the LCD facing the back of the cameras, saving any scratches or damages to the screen.

If you are someone not so experienced, but love the idea of owning a Nikon D90 for it’s megapixels, look no further. Featuring a 12.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, the D5000 produces highly detailed images that exhibit smooth tones, outstanding colour and low noise across a wide ISO sensitivity range. It is also compatible with NIKKOR’s finest lenses available.

Easy useage is a traditional aspect of Nikon’s DSLRs and the D5000 successfully carries on this trait. The compact body suggests an intelligent layout with controls sensibly positioned for easy operation. A simple in-camera range of options assists all users, no matter what experience level.

The Nikon D5000 combines the best of DSLRs with the simplicity of a point-and-shoot, enabling photographers to be creative in a simple and effective manner. Come on in to Kirk’s Cameras in Ringwood, and speak to a specialist about the Nikon D5000.

Our team at Kirk’s Cameras in Ringwood have a lot of customers come in with their old point-and-shoot digital cameras, asking what they could upgrade to as an alternative. Many keen photographers get to a stage where a digital camera doesn’t quite fit their needs, and with DSLR cameras expanding broadly and quickly, why not have a go? Nikon has proudly announced the release date of their new D3000 - a camera that is simple and professional - perfect for those looking to upgrade.

Combining all of the traditional and new features into one simple camera, the D3000 is smooth to operate and use. The D3000 features a new ‘Guide Mode’ — a way for less-experienced photographers to master the capabilities of DSLR cameras. With a user-friendly interface, Guide Mode assists users in choosing shooting modes for a variety of situations and advanced photographic techniques if they wish. Guide Mode is fully adaptable, and can be customised to suit every photographer and their needs.

Some technical specifications of the D3000 include:

The Nikon D3000 will be released in Australia in mid September 2009, so for all of our customers who are looking for the best alternative to your old digital camera, come on in to see one of our friendly staff and we will assist you in ordering your very first DSLR camera!

Nikon is proud to annouce that they will be releasing the new generation D300s, and it will come in with a bang. The D300s combines all of Nikon’s famous and traditional number one qualities with an array of fresh, up to date technology - bringing photographers the best mix in all advanced features. Nikon proudly advertise this DSLR camera as a creative photographer’s dream, hosting professional results, reliability and fantastic performance.

These are just a few new elements that can be found in the Nikon D300s. Along with traditional abilities such as auto exposure and auto white balance, this camera blends together the best in DSLR technology. The Nikon D300s is due for its release in mid September 2009, so come on in to Kirk’s Cameras and make an order, or ask one of our specialists some questions on this clever digital SLR camera, we have all of the accessories you need to get you started!

At Kirk’s Cameras, we have a lot of people coming in looking for a competitively priced entry-level DSLR that provides fantastic performance for first time DSLR buyers. The Canon EOS 1000D is often an option we will put forward to customers, let’s have a look why…

The EOS 1000D has been designed for those photographers who are keen to upgrade from a digicam to a far more capable, however easy going, DSLR camera. The camera is host to a 10.1 megapixel sensor, capturing great photos of an amazing quality and sharpness for those who aren’t so savvy with a DSLR. All over, the camera is small, however still includes a 2.5 inch LCD screen. It also has the ability to capture in 3.0fps continuous shooting mode in JPEG.

The camera has been updated in regards to its dust reduction, doing a professional job. Live View is also available on the EOS 1000D, along with a sharp and precise picture on screen and when printed. One of the best features about the EOS 1000D - which will captivate many photographers - is that operation time is very fast, with the highest quality. As an entry level DSLR, what is not to like!

Our friendly and experienced staff at Kirk’s Cameras are keen to meet with you at our Ringwood store, so come on in and ask as many questions as you like!