Cameras & Photography

When the thunder rolls, most people go running for cover. But if you're more adventurous, falling rain could mean the opportunity to capture some really interesting photographs -- if you know what you're doing.

By Mark Boyer

Snowscapes are appealing due to certain qualities of light and texture -- traits that make it a daunting subject for shutterbugs. Learn to conquer snow's challenges and even turn them to your advantage.

By Nicholas Gerbis

A raindrop falling off a leaf may not seem very remarkable, but when viewed up close, it's a complicated dance between the leaf, water and air. Raindrop photography shows us what we've been missing.

By Patrick E. George

Do you want to make a new photo look as though it was taken in the early 1900s? All it takes is a special chemical soak in the darkroom or a few clicks of the mouse on the computer.

By Patrick J. Kiger

When you look at a photograph, consider all of the visual elements that make it so striking: light versus dark, red against blue, black on white. How do we make these things that seem to clash work so harmoniously on paper?

By Dave Roos

This hypnotic, psychedelic swirl of lights is a star trail image, and it's just one example of the amazing effects captured by night photography. How hard is it to take night photos, and what's astrophotography?

By Nathan Chandler

Silhouette photographs may be lacking some of the details of regular shots, but their striking contrasts and clever compositions will wow even the most jaded eyeballs. What does it take to become a successful silhouette shooter?

By Nathan Chandler

You've finally learned how to use your new camera, and there's no shortage of subjects your lenses haven't captured. But you want to share them -- and not just online. Starting a photography club is a great way to interact with other shutterbugs.

By Gerlinda Grimes

Many people find photography to be a fun and fulfilling hobby, so it only makes sense that some try to make a career out of it. What would it take to start a business?

By Clint Pumphrey

Having some professional pictures taken of you and your spouse or loved one is a great way to spend time together. But how do you come up with great shots that don't look forced or clichéd? We've got some great tips.

By Laurie L. Dove

With so many software options out there for editing photos, it can be difficult for an amateur to decide what to get. We've covered the most important ones here, many of which are free!

By Josh Briggs

Compelling pictures are accented by interesting backgrounds and tools that allow the subjects to express themselves. You just need to know how to track down those items.

By Thomas Moore

In consumer optical devices like cameras and telescopes, aperture is an incredibly important concept. But what is it, exactly? Read on to learn more about aperture and its influence on photography and astronomy.

By Nathan Chandler

When you press the button on your camera and hear that distinctive click, you’re really hearing the sound of the camera’s shutter opening and closing in a fraction of a second. That time -- that is, your camera's shutter speed -- can dramatically alter photo quality.

By Ed Grabianowski

All these numbers and letters might seem confusing at first, but using your camera's f-stops is really quite simple once you understand some basic principles. Find out how fiddling with f-stops can enhance your photos.

By Nathan Chandler

ISO speed is one of three things that determine the quality of your photos. How can you control ISO speed to get the best shots possible? Learn all about it here.

By Dave Roos

It's a shock when a photo image looks completely different from the image you've retained in your mind. Did you know that UV radiation is partially to blame?

By Patrick J. Kiger

The best photographers feel a need -- a need for ideal film speed. But what is film speed and why does it matter?

By Thorin Klosowski

Just because your phone has a camera doesn't mean it takes high quality photos. What can you do to click better shots with your cell?

By Clint Pumphrey

Photos of all kinds can capture memories, and there's something particularly endearing about family photos (especially really old ones). But what happens when those delicate old prints get damaged? What's the best way to restore them, and can you do it yourself?

By Nathan Chandler

You want to surprise your parents on their anniversary with a slideshow of their wedding photos and other pictures throughout the years. But how will you transfer those old photos to your computer? We've got 10 tips designed to make the task easier.

By Stephanie Watson & Kate Kershner

The technology we use to take photos has changed but the importance of preserving memories in a photo album hasn't diminished. Here, some of the most important tools to organize and preserve your treasured pictures.

By Thomas Moore

There are few keepsakes as valuable as photographs. How do you organize those precious images so they're easy to access and share? We have the cataloging tips you need.

By Thomas Moore

You can admire them and even laugh at them but there are certain things you should absolutely avoid doing to your family photos. Let's take a look at some practices you should steer clear of.

By Victoria Vogt

If you want to make a scrapbook, you need scissors, paste and a ton of other arts and crafts supplies, right? Not in the digital age. Thanks to technology, knowing how to get the most out of your computer and available software will help your creativity shine.

By Jennifer Sellers