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.

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.

For anyone looking to take the next step in the world of DSLR photography, the Canon EOS 60D is the answer. Brand new technology provides users with an exciting new LCD Screen perfect for photography situations that need a low or overhead shooting angle, be that for taking still images or capturing videos in HD, as well as providing beautiful, cutting edge images.

18 megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor
First Canon EOS camera with vari-angle LCD monitor
Four new creative filters: toy camera; miniature effect; soft focus; grainy black and white
DiG!C 4 Image Processor
ISO 100-6400 (up to ISO 12800)
5.3 frames per second (fps) with continuous shooting up to 94 shots in a single burst (JPEG Large/Fine)
Live View Mode with Live Face Detection AF Mode
iFCL metering with 63-zone Dual-layer Sensor
Integrated Speedlite transmitter
In-camera RAW processing
Full High Definition movies with ‘Movie Crop’ feature (via HDMI output)

If this camera is what you’re looking for, or you want to find out more about this or many more Cameras, call or visit Kirk’s Cameras today! We have all of your DSLR needs - from lenses to accessories and much more!

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!

The Canon PowerShot G12 delivers top-quality images with a 10.0 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CCD sensor which offers users extreme capabilities in low lighting. With this camera you will not only capture amazing still images, but also amazing High Definition movies.

10.0 Megapixels with high sensitivity CCD
28mm wide angle lens
Optical Hybrid Image Stabilizer
Genuine Canon 5x Optical Zoom lens
RAW recording
DiG!C 4 Processor
Intelligent Auto
Intelligent Contrast Correction
Servo AF/AE
ISO 3200
Low Light Mode
2.8” Vari-angle LCD screen (High resolution 461,000 dots)
1cm macro shooting
Dedicated ISO and Exposure Dials
Multiple Aspect Ratios
High Dynamic Range photography
Full creative control
Digital Photo Professional software
Optional accessories including a range of speedlites and remote switch
High Definition Movie recording at 1280×720

If you are looking for professional performance in a compact body that offers complete manual control, look no further. The Canon PowerShot G12 will deliver, and so will Kirks Cameras Melbourne, with specialist help and advice. Call or come in-store and make the right choice!

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 comes packed full of features and is now released to the Photography world. This camera has a very sleek design, and is extremely comfortable when taking snapshots, with quality that speaks for itself. The outstanding manually controlled camera is a fantastic advantage of the FZ40, making it stand out against similar cameras on the market. The Panasonic FZ40 is a feature-packed, hybrid digital camera.

14.1-megapixel High-resolution CCD
Powerful 24x Optical Zoom
3.0-inch, 230,000-dot High-resolution LCD
25-600mm f/2.8-5.2 LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT Lens
HD Movie in AVCHD Lite
iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode
32x Intelligent Zoom / 50.6x Extra Optical Zoom
Fast Start-up Time
Short Release Time Lag
POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) – Shake Detection
Face Detection AF/AE with Face Recognition
Intelligent Resolution Technology
High Quality Sound
Intuitive Manual Control and Creative Option Featuring My Color Mode

Wether you are starting out doing some personal photography at home, or a professional photographer, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 is perfect for you! Drop in or call Kirks Cameras Melbourne for expert advice on this and many more cameras!

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!

Nikon has been producing high quality cameras since 1917 and has become one of, if not the most well known camera manufacturers in the world. The quality of their product, combined with their forward thinking, has produced a brand recognition that is unsurpassed in the camera industry.

Forward Compatible

Nikon knew the value of producing a quality product even ninety years ago. They also knew that by producing products that would be forward compatible for years to come, they would gain the faith of their customers. Consumers that purchased a Nikon SLR camera twenty years ago and now have purchased a new digital camera, such as the Nikon D3000, have the confidence in knowing that the expensive Nikkor or Nikon lenses are compatible with the newer SLR cameras (while used in Manual mode).

Affordable - Easy to Use

Moms and Dads can now take photographer quality pictures of their children with affordable, point and shoot digital cameras that are now being produced by every camera manufacturer under the sun, with Nikon taking the market by storm with their line of Nikon CoolPix cameras. Both affordable and easy to use, Nikon is proven that quality does not have to be expensive.

Making a high quality camera affordable enough for the average consumer, while still maintaining the quality of the brand is one more reason why Nikon has proven that they know what their customers want and they deliver.

Kirk’s Camera Supply is the retailer to trust. Let then answer all of your questions and help you to choose the camera that is perfect for your needs and your budget. Whether you are a budding photographer or a seasoned professional, the staff at Kirk’s Camera Supply is ready to assist you with all your photography needs. They carry a huge selection of cameras, lenses, tripods and more. Visit them today at 86 Maroondah Hwy in Ringwood or call them at (03) 9870 4644

Photography at night is not as complex as some may believe - it is all about having the right equipment, the ideal conditions and a positive frame of mind - along with a good quality camera! Kirk’s Cameras in Ringwood are keen to help you understand and learn how to take magnificent photos during the night.

1. Gather Your Accessories

Tripod - It is vital to have a tripod when taking night shots - particularly when capturing tricky landscapes or skylines. Unless you are opting for a deliberately blurred photo, a tripod is a top accessory. In order to get a proper exposure at night, you have to use very long shutter speeds. The only way to keep your camera stable is to use a tripod. They can be purchased or borrowed, depending on your photographic situation.

Remote - Ideally, you should not need to touch your camera when you are taking photos at night. Even if you have a tripod, the act of pressing the shutter release to take a photograph will slightly shake the camera and create a blurry photo. Digital SLR cameras have a port where you can attach a remote release. If you are using a digital point-and-shoot, you will find that some models will come standard with a remote or can be purchased separately.

Torch/Flashlight - This item is frequently overlooked but absolutely critical. Unless you are so familiar with your camera that you can change its settings in the dark, a flashlight is necessary to see the buttons on your digital camera. It is also useful for safety if you are unaware of your surroundings.

2. Set Your Camera

Your camera must have manual controls so that you can adjust shutter speed and aperture yourself - this is vital in obtaining the perfect photo. The camera you use must have an opening on the bottom where you can attach a tripod. Almost all digital cameras — compact and digital SLR alike — have a tripod thread hole.

It is best if your camera has a remote control. If it doesn’t, a self-timer works the same way, so we advise you become familiar with this if you are going to use it. The best ‘late-night’ digital cameras have a feature called long exposure noise reduction. With digital cameras, the longer the shutter is open, the more noise you will see in the final photo. Since all night photography requires long exposures, the camera can process the image when you take it to reduce some of the noise. If your camera has this function, be sure to switch it on.

3. Capture Your Photos

Now that your have your camera set to manual controls, your tripod is set up and your remote or timer is ready to go, it is time to take some photos.

Set up the camera, and manually adjust the shutter speed until the camera’s light meter indicates that a proper exposure will be achieved. Depending upon the amount of available light, you may have to use a shutter speed up to 30 seconds. Despite the camera sitting on a tripod, it is vital that you do not shake the camera in any way.

If you have a somewhat flimsy tripod and your camera is heavy, even a slight breeze can move the tripod and the camera with it. During a 30 second exposure, this will create a blurry photograph. Make sure your tripod is absolutely solid and that it won’t slip or shudder during the exposure.

You can happily shoot away with ease - just be sure to make the best use of your remote and tripod and be aware of your surrounding conditions. Practice makes perfect; but we are confident you will get the results you desire with our night photography tips!

To find out more, or to speak to a professional, please contact Kirk’s Cameras or come on in to our Ringwood store today.

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!