The advent of digital

We are presently living in a highly digital world – much of our technology has some kind of digital component, being computer controlled and readily connected to different devices. The effect of digital technology has been extremely visible in the realm of photography, with digital cameras now in the vast majority of homes.
Indeed, traditional ‘analogue’ or film photography has seriously diminished over the past decade. It is becoming more and more difficult to find places that are willing to process or even sell 35mm film. The only remnants of the ‘old world’ of photography are the disposable cameras frequently taken on school trips and for photos with a ‘retro charm’. Still, there is a dedicated following for film photography, and it still plays a large part in the educational and artistic markets.

The greatest advantage of digital photography is its versatility. Digital cameras can take many more photos than traditional film-based cameras, photo which can later be edited using a computer program such as Photoshop. Photos can now be made perfect using simple but very powerful tools. In addition, they can be shared with family and friends using the internet, or displayed continuously in digital photo frames. Digital technology offers innumerable possibilities, enhancing creativity, communication and practicality.

Kirk’s Camera Supply recognises the great importance of digital technology in photography, and has gradually come to the forefront of the digital world. Our online presence is a testament to this endeavour. We consider ourselves experts in digital photographic technology, and use this expertise to assist you when purchasing a camera. Come and consult with a Kirk’s camera expert today at our Ringwood store, and find how you can benefit from the digital explosion.

Camcorders and digital video cameras

Kirk’s Camera Supply doesn’t just deal in digital still cameras – we also stock a range of video cameras and accessories. Whatever your skill level, we carry a video camera that will suit your needs and budget. From families wishing to record those special moments, to film students producing high-quality homework, to professional moviemakers, we’ve got you covered.

Technology has progressed considerably since the days of the Super-8 camera, or even the humble Handycam. Full High-Definition (HD) video is now a reality, and is even included on several still cameras. Film and tape are no longer the media of choice, as hard disks, DVDs and flash memory provide greater storage and generally higher quality. Videos are now transferred digitally to computers where they can be edited in a non-linear fashion and kept safely on disk. The speed of the FireWire/IEEE 1394 interface means that video transfer is faster than ever.

Modern digital video cameras are exceptionally easy to use – it’s generally a case of ‘point and shoot’, and your memories are instantly recorded. A tripod is a very useful addition, especially with the advent of ‘video blogs’ where your thoughts are recorded, for example, during your travels, and posted online. Whatever project you have in mind, a digital video camera from us will suit it perfectly.

We carry an extensive range of digital video cameras and camcorders, as well as accessories to enhance your video experience. Caring for your camera, whether video or still, is important to ensure good results on every use. Come into Kirk’s Camera Supply, and find the video camera or accessories you’ve been looking for. Our expert staff are willing to assist you with your purchase.

Tripods

Posted by admin | Camera Maintenance, Camera Review/Information, DSLRs, Digital Cameras, Photography, SLRs, Tripods | Tuesday 25 January 2011 9:52 am

A decent tripod is a firm base for successful photography (pardon the pun). Many consumer photographers are used to taking photos ‘on the fly’, and this has lead to the advent of digital image stabilization technology to remove motion blur. However, many non-professional photographers can still benefit from having a tripod on hand.

For a large number of ‘incidental’ photographers, a tripod is an essential piece of equipment. It allows precise control of the angle of a shot, provides a stable platform to produce crisp images and a stand for timer photography. Tripods can range from the basic, $10-$20 variety for basic shots, to the advanced, highly configurable structures used for professional work. Tripods are surprisingly inexpensive, and a basic model will suit the needs of most entry-level photographers. There’s even the unusual ‘GorillaPod’, which secures your camera to virtually any surface imaginable via bendy legs.

Tripods can be easily stored along with your other camera accessories via means of a storage bag. Nearly all tripods fold up into a portable, lightweight package, so they can be carried easily on trips.

Where a tripod cannot be used due to space concerns, another viable option is the monopod. These are extensible rods that you can rest the body of your camera on, providing a more stable image. As your hands do not bear the weight of the camera, there is less shake to upset it. Kirk’s Camera Supply stocks a range of monopods that you can use to improve your photography in tight spaces.

Visit our store in Ringwood and browse our range of tripods for yourself, or flick through our catalog online. A tripod is an excellent investment for any photographer – drop into Kirk’s Camera Supply and find one that’s right for you.

Advantages of an online camera retailer that has an actual shopfront to visit and browse if needed

Posted by admin | Camera Review/Information, Digital Cameras, Photography, Product News, SLRs | Tuesday 23 November 2010 9:04 am

Whilst being both an online and storefront retailer, Kirk’s Cameras allows you to purchase cameras and camera accessories in a way that best suits you. Through their online store, you can order products safely and securely from the convenience of your own home or office. Forget about frustrating traffic, the hassle of finding a car park, and waiting to be served. Through Kirk’s Cameras’s online store you can order what you want and have it in a matter of days. Their website is easy to navigate and provides all the information necessary so you’ll have no problem finding the camera or camera accessory that’s right for you.

If you prefer to see the product before you buy, Kirk’s Cameras also has a shopfront conveniently located in Ringwood. Their staff are more than happy to show you their range of products and answer any questions you may have. You’ll find exactly the same range as online and with the products right in front of you, you’ll have no problem finding exactly what you’re looking for.

The unique benefit of purchasing from Kirk’s Cameras is that you have both online and shopfront options available. Unlike other companies who deal exclusively online or through their shopfront, Kirk’s Cameras offers the best of both worlds. When you purchase a product from their online store, you can be secure in the knowledge that if you have any problems, you don’t have to worry about solving the issue online. Waiting for emails and returning goods by post can be time consuming and frustrating. Simply visit their SUBURB store and one of their friendly staff will solve your problem on the spot. Even if it’s only advice or a demonstration on how to use your camera, their staff are happy to help.

Similarly, if you purchase a product from their shopfront and find you need some accessories later on, it’s as easy as jumping online and ordering whatever you need. Through their online store you have the same guarantee of quality, with the convenience of delivery to your door. So if you need a camera or camera accessories, simply visit Kirk’s Cameras‘ Ringwood store or look them up online. You’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for at the price that suits you.

Kit Lenses Versus Specialty Lenses - What’s The Deal?

Posted by admin | Camera Advice and Maintenance, DSLRs, SLRs | Tuesday 14 July 2009 1:02 pm

When purchasing your new DSLR camera, it is important that you know what you need, and for what purpose you need it. Every single lens camera bought in a kit - whether digital or standard - comes with a ‘Kit Lens’. However, for our eager photographers, this kit lens may not be quite what you’re after - you may need to investigate your options of purchasing a specialty lens.

What is a ‘Kit Lens’? A kit lens is a starter lens sold bundled with a DSLR or SLR camera. It is generally an reasonably inexpensive lens, with basic qualities, but perfect for a beginner photographer. The kit lens you receive most likely will be a zoom lens, ranging from medium wide-angle to mild telephoto. Some higher end or more expensive DLSRs will not come with a kit lens, as they are expected to be bought separetly.

For a photographer looking to capture a specific style of image, a specialty lens may be the way to go. Specialty lenses are typically broken down into five categories - fast, fish-eye, wide, lensbaby and tilt and shift. A brief knowledge of each can assist you in making a decision.

A fast lens enables you to shoot in low light without compromising your shutter speed, and you can shoot extremely shallow depth of field. Many photographers love shooting landscapes and group shots - a wide lens is perfect, giving you the option of capturing a broad image. Effectively, a fish-eye lens is a super wide lens without the geometric correction - meaning that the edges of the image distort to fit the image in. The lensbaby is mounted onto the end of a bellows, allowing you to tilt the lens to change the centre of focus and create a smeared effect. Finally, the element of a tilt and shift lens can be moved side to side and up and down.

So, when you buy your DSLR camera, you need to know whether to purchase purely the body of the camera, or also the kit lens. Kirk’s Cameras in Ringwood are more than happy to advise you, and point you in the right direction, so come in and visit our team!