INTRODUCTION

Photography and video are means of collecting visual data that can be extremely valuable for research, as well as being useful for presentations, teaching, or to interest more general audiences. Good imaging conveys the quality of light, emotion and the essence of the subject to the viewer. The ability to see what is in the viewfinder and know the moment to capture the image is a skill that comes with practice. Although you look through a viewfinder to frame a shot with both still and moving images, in practice each requires a very different set of skills and thought processes. This chapter covers photography first, moves on to video, then discusses protection of equipment and travelling with photographic gear.

STILL PHOTOGRAPHY

TYPES OF STILL CAMERA

Advances in camera technology have greatly simplified the process of obtaining a sharply focused and well-exposed picture. There are three types of commonly used still cameras: point and shoot cameras (including Advanced Photo System (APS) cameras), digital still, and single lens reflex cameras. Every camera has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is important that you choose one that will record the kind of picture you require and that is within your budget.

Point and shoot cameras (PSC)

APS cameras are the smallest and lightest PSCs, and cost US$ 50–250. They have an autofocus lens, built-in flash and weigh 140–220 g. They use film sizes smaller than 35 mm, which record correspondingly less image information per exposure.