Storage media for digital cameras

Whether it’s a compact digital camera, a digital SLR or even a mobile phone camera, storage is a common concern for all modern photographers. The mass adoption of digital photography has spelled the end of the limitations of film. One of film’s most pressing limitations was how many shots could be stored at once without having to reload and develop. Digital camera storage, based on solid state memory, has alleviated this problem. Thousands of images can be stored on the one thumbnail-sized card.

There are many varieties of digital camera storage media out there, and it’s important that you choose the right one. Kirk’s Camera Supply carries digital storage media for most cameras. Our range of capacities means that you can find the right amount of storage at the right price for you. For most applications, a 2-gigabyte storage medium is a good start. Digital memory prices are falling all the time (roughly halving every year!) so we can assure you of an excellent deal.

Digital storage comes in several different formats. SD cards (and the even smaller, fingernail-sized micro-SD cards) are among the most popular, and currently store up to 32 Gb. CompactFlash cards are slightly bigger and thicker, and have been used in digital cameras since the early days. They are often considered the most rugged cards for photographic use. MemorySticks are used primarily by Sony cameras, and come in many varieties for different cameras and purposes.

All modern photographers should place great importance in their choice of digital camera storage. Size isn’t the only factor either – quality of manufacturer and build is important to avoid data errors, which may corrupt your photos. It’s important to choose an appropriate card when you buy your camera if it doesn’t already come with one. Come into our store today, and ask which card is right for you.

For more information contact Kirks Camera.

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.

Compact vs. SLR

When purchasing a new digital camera, one is confronted with a huge range of choice. There are many different models, brands and types to choose from, so the task can seem quite daunting. The sales consultants at Kirk’s Camera Supply recognise this, and will help you choose the camera that is best for you. The two most popular forms of digital camera are the simpler compact variety and the more sophisticated SLR-style type. It’d important to compare the two before deciding on what you will finally purchase.

The compact camera is perhaps the most popular kind. These are the successors of the film-based consumer camera, but allow far more in terms of relative features. Some compact cameras produce nearly professional quality pictures, while still remaining small and easy to use. The chief benefit of the compact camera is its size – it’s easy to keep in a handbag or pocket, and can be taken out for impromptu shoots like family events. However, the lens of the compact camera cannot be removed.  This is rarely a concern for your average consumer photographer, but it can limit the quality and variety of your pictures.

At the other end of the spectrum is the Digital SLR. These are similar to the Single-Lens Reflex film cameras of years-gone-by, in that they have interchangeable lenses and a large body. They produce very high quality shots, and the parameters of the camera can be customised to a much greater degree than with compacts. Although generally more expensive than their compact equivalents, many at the lower end of the range are specifically aimed at consumers who want a little more quality and choice. These are quite affordable and make perfect cameras for the hobbyist.

So, whether a compact or an SLR is up your alley, Kirk’s Camera Supply has got you covered. We can help you choose the camera that’s right for you. Our trained staff are more than willing to provide assistance in choosing from our affordable range of compact and SLR cameras. Visit our Ringwood store today for a tour!

The benefits of photography

The world of photography has grown immensely since its inception. It’s now common practice for every household to have at least one camera to record family memories. Their presence in our modern world is ubiquitous, with most modern mobile phones incorporating one in their handset. Still, despite the universal nature of the camera, it still provides a fun, engaging hobby in the form of photography. Photography can extend from simple recording of events to a full-blown professional art form. To get the most out of the field, of course, one needs to have quality tools and a good support base. Kirk’s Camera Supply can provide you with both of these.

We stock a wide range of digital still and video cameras, as well as accessories to enhance your photography experience. With our extensive online selection, you’re sure to find the right tool for the job. For example, if you simply want to record fun times with friends or family, a handheld digital still camera might be your best bet, or a DV camcorder. Many digital still cameras nowadays have video recording features, allowing you to produce video comparable to that from a camcorder. The possibilities are endless.

The creative aspect of photography is always an alluring aspect for artists young and old. Computer image manipulation programs, combined with the rise of digital photography, have meant that professionals and beginners alike can create photography masterpieces with ease. Creative photography could be your window into artistic fulfillment. More importantly, it’s fun!

Here at Kirk’s Camera Supply, we service customers from all walks of photography. Our staff are ready to consult and help you find a camera that is suited to your purposes. Whether basic or sophisticated, Kirk’s can handle any photographical request. Browse our range online or in-store to discover your idea camera.

Fuji Finepix F300EXR product specifications

The Fuji Finepix F300EXR allows you the ability to have the power of 15X zoom and 24mm Super-wide angle in your pocket with its compact, but uncompromising design. This professional camera holds all the cutting-edge features, but with the versatility of a small household digital camera.

12.0 Megapixel Super CCD EXR
Fujinon 15x Optical Zoom
Hybrid AF
Intelligent Image Stabilization
Motion Panorama 360
High contrast 3.0 LCD – 160 Degree ultra-wide view of 460,000-pixel resolution
Photo Book Assist
Dog/Cat Detection & Baby Auto Shutter
Tracking Auto Focus
Super Intelligent Flash
EXR Auto – Extreme Point-and-Shoot
Film Simulation Mode
Pro Focus Mode
Accessories Included

For a fantastic family camera, with a professional edge, the Fuji Finepix F300EXR is the way to go. Visit Kirks Cameras in store or give them a call for a friendly, helpful staff team who will give the right advice on your new camera!

Nikon D3100 Introduction to Specifications

When you are looking to capture some of life’s most precious moments, the Nikon D3100 provides photography that can create an ever-lasting memory.  This camera is a simple, yet powerful DSLR which provides you with surprisingly superb results. The Nikon D3100 caters for all occasions, from taking the occasional snapshot, to composing full HD movies.

DX-format, 14.2 effective megapixel CMOS image sensor
EXPEED 2 – Nikon’s new image processing engine
ISO sensitivity 100-3200 (expandable to ISO 12800 equivalent)
Active D-Lighting – Beautiful balancing of light and shade
Picture Control – Customizing images before the shot
Guide Mode – The sure way to obtain desired results
Scene Modes – Your short cut to expected results
Scene Auto Selector – Letting D3100 decide the best mode to match the scene
Help function – One-touch access to in-camera assistance
Info display format – Choose the view that’s right for you
D-Movie – Breathtaking full HD 1080p movies [NEW]
Live View – Live View with new AF modes and large 7.5-cm (3-in.) monitor
AF Mode for Live View and Movie Shooting – New autofocus (AF) modes help capture moving subjects
AF-area modes for live view and movies – Four modes to capture subject
11-point AF system – Quick, accurate autofocus ready for the decisive moment
Advanced white balance control – More natural whites
Built-in pop-up flash – Additional light whenever needed
Convenient and powerful Speedlight SB-400 (sold separately)
Scene Recognition System – Intelligent operation in any setting
Ample image and movie editing functions – In-camera image and movie editing
High-performance NIKKOR lenses – The right choice for amazing photos and full HD movies.
Nikon’s original VR system – Less camera-shake blur in images and viewfinder
Compact and lightweight – Easy operation and take-anywhere portability
Continuous 3 fps shooting – Catch the decisive moment
Eye-Fi support – Transfer photos and movies wirelessly

Searching for Simplicity, Power and Top of the range Technology? This Camera has it all, and more. To be fully informed about a majority of different cameras and have professional advice, Go no further than Kirks Cameras for all your Camera needs, call or visit in-store now!

Sony Cyber-shot Specifications

The Cyber-shot by Sony is all about capturing the best of life’s amazing moments – from trips to sports to every day activities. It’s never been more true with the water, dust, shock and freeze-proof new Cyber-shot TX5 - Sony’s first ever camera with high-fashion looks that handles just about anything your active lifestyle can throw at it. Suitable for any skill level and age, it guarantees that you will have a funky, clever camera on hand at any time.

At just 17.7mm in width, it is one of the world’s thinnest and smallest waterproof digital still cameras on the market. It is available in five stunning colours that are highly gender-friendly (black, silver, pink, green and red), the TX5 is suitable for a night out for dinner and dancing or hiking in the muddy mountains.

This great camera is waterproof down to 3m - great to shoot pictures in the pool or while you’re snorkelling. You can even adjust settings on the intuitive 3 inch LCD touchscreen while you’re underwater or wearing gloves – easy! This tough performer also shrugs off dust, and can keep shooting after being dropped from a height of 1.5m. The TX5 can even deal with freezing conditions down to -10 degrees Celsius, making Sony’s Cyber-shot an ideal companion for skiing trips.

With 4x optical zoom and a 10 megapixel sensor, the Cyber-shot is close to sitting on-par with some of Sony’s DSLR cameras – without the difficulties and training involved. Give Kirk’s cameras a call, or come on in to our Ringwood store to find out more today!

Digital Cameras: Get Rid Of Noise From Your Photos

Noise can be frustrating when it appears in your photos, especially when you don’t want it there! Whilst it can be a great way to achieve a funky, modern effect, it does take away from the sharpness and clarity of your photo. Increasing the ISO allows you to capture sharp pictures in low light situations by increasing the camera’s sensitivity, but it can also add unwanted digital noise to your picture. So, what are some ways of correcting noise and emilinating it from your photos?

To begin, it is important to know exactly what noise is and what to be looking out for. Dots, speckles and smudges of random color are generally what makes up digital noise on your photograph. It is most visible in places such as within skin tone or on a backdrop, where the tone should be even but becomes unstable. Digital noise can have a ‘grainy’ appearance; and this can often be appealing when attempting to achieve a unique style.

There are two great ways to eliminate digital noise – via your digital camera and on your computer. In order to reduce noise on your camera, use higher ISO values only when you require it – so the lower your ISO level, the less noise will appear in your photos. Many modern digital cameras have a noise-reduction mode and if so, ensure that it is switched on. Get to know your camera, what it likes to take and in what conditions.

To further eliminate noise, the next step can only be performed on your computer – so it’s time to get computer savvy! Transfer your photos to your computer and select your favourite image editor program. If you do not have one on your computer, have a look online and download a basic model. Programs such as PhotoShop and Paint Shop Pro often will have a noise-reduction filter that you can use to get rid of noise. Make sure you gain a good knowledge of the program that you are using, and understand how to use it effectively.

By this point, your images should have a very low level of noise apparent, if any!