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Nikon Camera The
OVER 2 HOURS OF VIDEO TUTORIALS
The independent guide to getting the most from your Nikon
THIRTEENTH EDITION
Digital Edition
100% UNOFFICIAL
Includes the latest models
Master your Nikon • Find the best kit • Edit & manipulate images
Contents 08
A guide to your Nikon camera Learn more about your camera with our handy guide
Guide to Nikon
Using your Nikon
08 Your Nikon Camera
52 Composing images with your Nikon camera
Lean more about your camera and which one to use as we get to grips with the newest, top-selling models
22 Guide to Nikon lenses Our guide to the best lenses for your Nikon, their uses, and which one fits your budget
30 Essential Kit for Nikon Must-have gadgets to enhance your shots
40 Guide to Nikon modes Explore the Nikon mode dial
30 Essential kit
6 The Nikon Camera Book
Composition rules and how to apply them
58 Stay sharp Lean more about focusing your Nikon
68 Metering with Nikon The principals and application of metering
74 Using flash Get the hang of this tricky technique
80 A guide to filters for landscapes Enhance your Nikon’s creativity with filters
“Focusing is one of the most important skills”
142 Upgrade your
black and white
Advanced techniques
58
Stay sharp
92 One light portraits
122 Focus on wildlife
Create portraits that capture your model
102 10 essential ingredients of landscapes Discover tips from Peter Eastway
114 Shoot still life like a pro Produce unique and creative shots
126 Focus on wildlife
Take striking images of birds and more
138 Upgrade your black and white shots How to get the best black & white images
92
One light portraits
148 Discover the secrets of low light & long exposure Take creative images in the dark
Editing your Nikon images 160 The essential guide to editing Use Photoshop to transform your Nikon images
168 Photoshop fundamentals Improve your Nikon’s photos in 5 minutes
172 Nikon Capture NX-D A guide to using Nikon’s editing software
102
Capture exquisite landscapes
The Nikon Camera Book 7
Your Nikon camera Whether you want to shoot photos or movies this camera will be the best companion
Nikon Z 50 DX The newest addition to the Nikon mirrorless line-up is perfect for everyone Technical data Model Nikon Z 50 DX Price £849 / $859 (body only) Web www.nikon.com Megapixels (effective) 20.9 Max resolution (pixels) 5568 x 3712 Sensor information 23.5mm x 15.7mm Shutter speed 30 -1/4000sec ISO sensitivity A, 100-51200 Exposure modes P, A, S, M Metering options CW, S, M, HW Flash modes FC, SS, RS, RE, off Connectivity USB 3.0, HDMI type C Weight 450g Dimensions 126.5x93.5x60mm Batteries Rechargeable Li-ion Storage CompactFlash, Dual XQD LCD 3.2”, 2,359K-dot touch Viewfinder: 0.72 pentaprism
10 THE NIKON CAMERA BOOK
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he Nikon Z 50 DX is the first Z-series DX-format camera in the Nikon lineup. The mirrorless camera houses features inherited from the Nikon Z 7 and the Z 6 cameras, which include the wide Nikon Z mount and fast Hybrid-AF. The Z 50 also features a large 20.9 MP DX-format sensor, sharp electronic viewfinder and a tilting touch screen. The EVF enables you to see everything clearly whether you are shooting video or stills, and you can choose to view the scene naturally like you would through an optical viewfinder or how they’ll look with your settings applied, meaning that this camera is perfect for any level of photographer. The impressive mirrorless camera has Intelligent Eye-Detection AF, which automatically focuses on your subject’s eyes, making it the perfect choice for shooting stunning portraits. The impressive ISO range of 100-512000 and low-light AF capabilities mean that you can shoot freely in any lighting conditions and capture more detail than ever before in the dark. You can record stunning 4k.UHD movies at 30p, as well as slow-motion video in Full HD,
SRP: £849/$859 (body only)
and with no crop-factor limitations, you get to take advantage of the large DX-format sensor. Capturing stills while filming is also possible as well as 4K time-lapse sequences in-camera. The Z 50 DX features a deep grip, which feels comfortable and sturdy to hold. It includes a pop-up flash, it is very lightweight, and the body doesn’t feel too bulky. The quiet focusing and silent photography mode mean that you can capture moments discreetly without disturbing anyone, making this the perfect camera for wedding photography, as well as capturing candids on the street. With 20 in-camera effects available for both stills and video, as well as the ability to make them your own, there are plenty of creative options for every photographer.
Summary Verdict Nikon’s first APS-C sensor camera will suit every level of photographer with its hybrid AF and seemingly endless creative option. Record stunning 4k movies, and capture impressive detail and stunning colour.
Your Nikon camera
Despite the large size and weight of the D5, it feels well-balanced in hand and the placing of the Nikon’s buttons is intuitive
Nikon D5
SRP: £4,000/$6,500 (body only)
The flagship D5 model from Nikon is as good as it gets, capable of capturing excellent stills and stunning video Technical data Model Nikon D5 Price £4,000 / $6,500 (body only) Web www.nikon.com Megapixels (effective) 20.8 Max resolution (pixels) 5568 x 3712 Sensor information FX 35.9 x 23.9mm Shutter speed 30 -1/8000sec ISO sensitivity A, 100-102400 (expandable to 503280000) Exposure modes P, A, S, M Metering options CW, S, M, HW Flash modes FC, SS, RS, RE, off Connectivity USB 3.0, HDMI type C Weight 1,405g Dimensions 160x158.5x92mm Batteries Rechargeable Li-ion Storage CompactFlash, Dual XQD LCD 3.2”, 2,359K-dot touch Viewfinder: 0.72 pentaprism
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here’s always excitement with the arrival of a high-end camera and the release of the Nikon D5 was no exception. The D5 takes over from the D4S as Nikon’s flagship camera. This model is the highest resolution full-frame Nikon camera, and has been built to meet the advancements and innovations in the full-frame market as well as meeting the many needs of professional shooters. There’s a brand-new 20.82MP full-frame sensor that operates across a wide native range of ISO 100 to 102400, which can be ramped up to an outstanding 3280000-equivalent, making image capture even in the poorest lighting conditions a possibility. The newly designed sensor improves autofocus, metering and image processing, which ensures that this camera is capable of producing outstanding imagery. The innovative D5 houses the EXPEED 5, which is Nikon’s most powerful processor ever. The new processor is able to harness the vast power of the new FX-format CMOS sensor, exceeding the D4Ss 16MP. A second processor has even been included just for autofocus. The new Multi-CAM 20K AF system boasts a huge 153 points, which is a massive three times
more than its D4S predecessor. When all of this power is teamed with one of the brilliant NIKKOR lenses the image quality is incredible. The extremely powerful D5 is a must-have for professionals. It’s a solid camera that will withstand years of use from even the most demanding shooter. The D5 has a touchscreen, which lets you swipe through images, zoom into details and much more. The cleverly designed DSLR also has a viewfinder blind, which photographers shooting long-exposures will find to be a valuable addition. The camera comes with secondary command dials with AF controls that enable the user to effortlessly switch to portrait shooting. There is even a second LCD screen that displays white balance, among other things.
Summary Verdict The D5 matches and may even exceed the Canon EOS 1D X mark II, which is really saying something. There are lots of new features over the previous D4S model and image quality and precision is outstanding. THE NIKON CAMERA BOOK 11
Guide to Nikon lenses
Ultimate guide to...
Nikon lenses Let us help you capture the full picture with our guide to lenses for your Nikon
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electing the right lens for the correct subject matter is crucial. Your lens is the eye of your camera and records or captures what it sees. In terms of cost and performance, it usually comes down to the more you spend, the better your results; however, if you’ re just starting out there is no point in splashing out on lots of expensive equipment straight away as you first need to learn the basics of photography and find which genre you wish to pursue. A good lens is pricey; there’s no getting around that fact. The cheaper kit lenses will produce good enough results for beginners, but when you need to take your photography to the next step you will have to invest in a couple of decent lenses. A lens’s angle of view is measured in millimetres. An ultra-wide-angle lens will have a measurement
that is less than 24mm, a wide-angle lens ranges from 25-35mm, and a normal or standard lens is 36mm-60mm. Past this number the lens becomes a long focus lens or telephoto. Another thing to consider when looking for the right lens is the construction. There are prime lenses, which have fixed focal lengths (ie the lens does not zoom in or out), and there are zoom lenses, where the focal point can be adjusted. The type of camera you have will also affect what lens you should shoot with. If you have a full-frame sensor then the angle of view is the equivalent to how it reads on the lens (a 35mm will be 35mm, for example). However, if you have a camera with a crop factor then the focal length will be different. If the camera has a crop factor of 1.6x then a 35mm will be equivalent to a 56mm angle.
“ When you’re ready to take your photography to the next level, you will have to invest in lenses” 22 The Nikon Camera Book
Guide to Nikon lenses
The Nikon Camera Book 23
Essential kit for Nikon Protect your kit
Robust but stylish camera bags
Manfrotto NX Camera sling bag (£67/$70)
This bag has separate compartments to hold your camera, two lenses, a 13-inch laptop on the inside and a tripod connector outside. If you want to use it for another purpose you can remove the internal separators to create more space for other items. The back and shoulder straps are padded so wearing it on long journeys is more comfortable.
Camera bags Keep your kit safe by investing in a suitable bag or case – a dedicated camera bag with protective padding really is a must if you’re spending a lot of money on kit. The range of bags on the market is astounding and you’ll find one to fit your needs whether it’s for adventuring with your camera or making a fashion statement. Quality is the most important factor when choosing a bag; this will be what protects your camera so you should be sure that the materials used are up to standard. Also keep in mind the other gear and accessories you have to carry along with you. If you’re
Lowepro Streetline sh 180 shoulder bag (£155/$160)
One of the most popular brands when it comes to camera bags, this fantastic offering from Lowepro offers discreet protection designed with street photographers in mind. The Streetline SH 180 includes a collapsible FlexPocket, which provides suspended protection from impact when deployed, making it the perfect choice for storing and protecting your DSLR and other valuables while you’re out on the town.
tamrac Hoodoo 20 (£130/$132)
The Hoodoo series of backpacks from Tamrac have been designed with adventure in mind, enabling you to take your camera wherever you want to go. The Hoodoo 20 is conveniently three bags in one – a protective camera backpack, a removable camera shoulder bag and a stylish daypack – giving you ultimate flexibility. The gorgeous backpack offers easy access to your camera through the front opening, and can carry compact DSLRs and mirrorless camera systems along with extra lenses.
Laptop-friendly
The Hoodoo 20 will hold most 15-inch laptops and tablets in a dedicated protective sleeve
Easy access
Nikon cf-dc8 case (£136/$150)
Nikon offers a wide range of camera cases for its compact, mirrorless and DSLR releases, with each one tailored to a specific range. In fact, the CF-DC8 is aimed specifically at the flagship FX- format D500. With a small lens attached, you can keep your camera hanging round your neck from its strap, while the moulded case protects your kit from the elements. Its semi-soft casing absorbs unexpected knocks while keeping dust and dirt off the camera body,
34 The Nikon Camera Book
The front opening means photographers can access their kit with absolute ease
Durable
Hoodoo packs are made with water resistant waxed canvas and PU coated ripstop material for durability
a Nikon DSLR user and you have plenty of lenses and flash accessories then choose a bag that accommodate all your gear. If you use a compact, something small and streamlined will do. Nikon produces its own range of bags designed specially for the cameras it manufactures such as the range for COOLPIX compacts. The company’s bag range extends into backpacks and shoulder bags which are great to carry your larger Nikon camera as well as necessary gear such as laptops.
Lens Pouch (£13/$13) Make sure yo ur len
ses are well by investing protected in len The Goblin len s pouches from Tamra c. s pouches co and a range me in 6 sizes of st prices startin ylishly bright colours wi th g The easy-to-o from £13/$13 to £23/$2 3. perate draw string fasten makes acce ing ss simple an d the quilted ultrasonically , fused interio r provides basic protec tion, yo to worry abou u’ll never have t your lenses getting bash ed again.
Essential kit for Nikon Nikon Speedlight SB-5000 (£599/$600) Compatible with both FX and DX format Nikon DSLRs, the SB-5000 has been designed with professional shooters in mind. It is fast, reliable and versatile, offering superb performance both out on location and in the studio. This Speedlight operates as a hot shoe-mounted flash unit, wireless commander or remote unit – it’s the first Nikon speedlight with wireless control and the all-new cooling system allows more than 100 rapid-fire shots to be captured with the flash operating at full power.
Flexible lighting
Our picks to illuminate images
Compact
With a height of 73mm and a weight of 420g (without batteries) the unit is reasonably small and easy to carry around in your bag
Power source
The unit is powered by four AA-batteries and can take rechargeable cells. You can carry spares in your kit bag in case you need them
Speedlight SB-N7 (£149/$160)
Designed to perfectly fit the Nikon 1 range of compact, mirrorless cameras this flash unit has a tilt capacity of up to 120 degrees giving you a wide range of creative options for bouncing light, it also boasts a range of flash modes such as fill-flash and flash compensation. It’s available in black and white to match the body of your camera. Having a flexible flash like this on as small a camera as the Nikon 1 is a real bonus.
Tilt range
The flash head tilts down to 7° or up to 90°, and rotates horizontally 180° to the left and right
Flashes and Speedlights Using flash is about more than just shooting in low light and brightening up your image. It is an integral part of photography and learning how to use one effectively will increase your understanding of the photographic process and how light works. Most cameras – compacts and DSLRs – have built in flash that can be set to auto to fire when your camera thinks you need it or to use manually. Buying an additional flashgun, however, gives you greater flexibility in the way you use flash (for instance by tilting the head up to bounce it off a surface) and gives you extra power too, letting you hone the result you want.
Metz 52 AF-1 Digital (£178/$319)
A great feature of this Metz flash is that it has a touchscreen making it a lot quicker and easier to find your way around the extensive menu. Despite the lack of stroboscopic mode that can be found in other flashes, it does have a wireless master and slave capabilities. With a very appealing price tag it means that this flash is an option worth considering.
Most compacts don’t have an option to add an additional flash but Nikon’s 1 series cameras do. When it comes to DSLRs the range of flashguns available are enormous and can fit any budget from an entry-level unit to a professional model. When it comes to buying a flashgun you’ll come across the terms flash and Speedlight. These are essentially the same thing. Speedlight is the trade name for Nikon’s flash option and each product in their flash line carries the label.
“The adjustable tilt head lets you correctly bounce light and avoid the harsh result of direct flash”
Wireless speedlight If you use a big lig
hting setu way to cont p then a rol Nikon’s Wire it all from one place is le ss Sp ee (£275/appr dlight Com useful. mander ox $337) do es just that 800 is com . The SUpatible with Creative Li ghting syst most of Nikon’s em can set off numerous and with it you flashes. Th tells you w e LCD hat’s co can progra nnected and you m it as you go.
Sigma EF-630 DG (£399/$379)
The Sigma EF-630 includes an autozoom function which automatically sets the illumination angle by reading the focal length of the lens. It also includes exposure control to regulate the type of bounce and illumination coming from the unit. Though pricier than an entry-level model, the Sigma unit is well built, practical and useful in a variety of shooting situations from studio to close-up. It has a guide number of 63 making it a powerful option for more serious low-light shooters.
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Guide to Nikon modes
The Auto mode usually does a pretty good job at getting the right settings for you, especially on scenes with simple lighting
Using Auto mode, you don’t have to worry about understanding exposure
P S
A
Auto
Auto mode
Discover the benefits of shooting in Auto mode and get inspired to step up to scene modes or manual settings as you gain some confidence
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The Auto mode is the most noticeable icon on the mode dial and it’s also the most basic option. Designed for complete beginners, the Auto mode doesn’t require any input from the photographer when it comes to selecting your exposure settings, meaning your only role in the process of producing a picture is to point your Nikon at the scene and press the shutter. Many mistake the Auto mode for being the best option when it comes to taking a quick capture. Although it’s probably the most familiar, there are much better modes to select, including specific scene mode options and the Programmed Auto mode, which we’ll cover a little later on. If you’re working with a relatively new Nikon camera, you can discover more about them using the Guide mode setting too. Using Auto mode, however, means you don’t have to worry about understanding exposure. The Auto mode works by evaluating the lighting in a scene and determining what shutter speed, aperture setting and ISO you will need to shoot at. The camera will even consider the automatic use of 42 The Nikon Camera Book
flash. Auto cannot recognise what subject you are shooting, however, so although you’ll often get a good, even exposure, the settings may not offer the most professional results. Portraits for example are unlikely to include an artistic shallow depth of field effect (blurred background), as the camera has used larger f-numbers for the best even exposure. As you’re without control over the exposure, use your Auto mode in other ways. Use it to concentrate on developing your eye for composition, for example, as you don’t have to worry about settings. Focus on framing well-balanced landscape scenes and positioning models effectively in portraits. Advancing your skills in this area as a beginner will be useful when you begin to explore more advanced modes. Knowing what makes a
good image is essential; the right exposure settings comes next. Alongside the Auto mode, your mode dial may feature a ‘Flash off’ mode. This is essentially the same as the full Auto mode but it instead prevents the camera from selecting the flash automatically during an exposure when you may not want it. Use this mode when you want automatic results but want to avoid flash illumination on your subjects. Although it’s the least creative mode on your camera, you’ll find the Auto mode useful for improving your framing skills. Once you’re ready, explore the fantastic array of scene modes on offer before advancing to the step-up Programmed Auto mode and then further to Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and full Manual control.
“Using Auto mode, you don’t have to worry about understanding exposure. Use it to concentrate on developing your eye for angles and framing”
Guide to Nikon modes S
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A
M o Aut
Scene modes
Discover the potential in your scene mode settings to take a little bit more control and start getting great shots straight out of the camera
Scene modes are a lot more advanced than your standard Auto mode camera setting. They are programmed to automatically capture your subject using the best settings for the scene. The selected exposure settings are based on those that are traditionally used, in order to get creative results when shooting the likes of portraits, landscapes, sports and still life.
The Landscape scene mode ensures more of the picture is in focus by selecting smaller aperture settings to increase depth of field. Other modes make similar adjustments to optimise images, including blurring the background in portraits. To select a scene mode, simply rotate the mode dial to one of the icons, depending on what you’re planning to shoot. In some Nikon cameras, you
may need to select the scene symbol and choose a specific mode from the menu options on the screen. Scene modes are a great starting point for those who want to step out of Auto mode and begin getting creative results. Using scene modes, you’ll be able take more control over your images, which should build your confidence towards exploring the more advanced modes available to you.
Portrait mode Select the Portrait scene mode to shoot flattering photos of your family and friends. You can use it to frame one or more people in the photograph too, provided they are stationary – you’ll need to switch to the Sport or Child scene mode if you’re photographing fast-moving people to avoid blurred results. Using the Portrait scene mode, your camera will determine the correct exposure settings for the shot. The Portrait scene mode is designed to softly blur out the background of your image by using wider aperture settings, which creates an artistic shallow depth of field effect. This is a great way to isolate the person in the photograph, making them the main Capture professionallooking portraits without having to adjust your exposure settings using the Portrait scene mode
focus in the frame. The Portrait scene mode also takes care of skin tones, as the camera automatically adjusts how colours are recorded, resulting in a smooth and natural finish. Although the Portrait scene mode takes control over your exposure, you can adjust your in-built flash settings. Opt to turn the flash on, off or select a red-eye reduction mode, depending on the conditions. Your camera will then take the flash into account with the exposure before you take the shot. You can use the Portrait scene mode to photograph people on location or inside. If it is possible, select the face-detection focusing mode to ensure sharp and professional shots.
Use your Night scene mode to capture impressive low-light shots using wider apertures and your on-camera flash
Night mode You don’t have to put your camera away after the sun has gone down; using your Night scene mode, it’s still possible to capture some great low-light images. Some Nikon camera models will feature a standard Night scene mode on the dial; however, others can offer much more specific night modes, including Night Portrait and Night Landscape. You can use the Night Portrait mode to photograph your subject in low light using the built-in flash. The Night Portrait mode will slow down your shutter speed so that once the flash has illuminated the model’s face, the camera can still record ambient light in the background. You need to make sure your model is stationary
throughout the duration of the exposure to get blur-free shots. The Night Landscape mode, on the other hand, is ideal for capturing nighttime city scenes. It works by making the camera let in more light, which involves using slower shutter speeds. For the best results, use a tripod to avoid capturing camera shake which could ruin the result. A general Night scene mode works in a similar way to the more specific Night Landscape mode in that it makes the most of limited light by using the best possible settings. You can use it not only when you’re shooting in a low-light location, but also when you’re shooting indoors under dimly lit conditions. The Nikon Camera Book 43
Using your Nikon
before
filters A guide to
for landscapes
Landscape pro Lee Pengelly demonstrates how filters enable you to get the image right in-camera, banishing those washedout skies and weak colours
All images © Lee Pengelly
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s the landscape is one of the most accessible subjects, you would think this would make it easy to capture. However, unlike studio photographers who can control their own lighting, for landscape photographers it’s a slightly different story. We work with natural light and in the UK this can be unpredictable at the best of times. We have to measure and cope with a changing light in all its various forms – side lighting, back lighting, sunsets, sunrises, into the light, harsh light, diffused light... the list goes on and the various techniques for capturing each first time around aren’t at all simple. Add to this other elements such as cloud cover,
80 The Nikon Camera Book
the seasons, the Sun’s position and you start to get an idea of what we’re faced with. We have to be aware of how the camera sees things and help it along to capture what we see. Unfortunately our cameras don’t work as well as our eyes. Look at any landscape and in microseconds our eyes will adjust to the light, balancing the scene. Try to capture the scene with one frame and getting this balance right in-camera is nigh on impossible. Nine times out of ten we end up with washed-out skies and poor contrast. All is not lost though, as we can control this light with filters, getting the image in-camera to match what we see.
after
Transform a landscape Use long exposures alongside a neutral density filter to capture atmospheric landscape images like this one
Using your Nikon
The Nikon Camera Book 81
Advanced techniques
SHOOT STILL LIFE LIKE A PRO
114 The Nikon Camera Book
Advanced techniques Discover techniques to producing unique and highly creative images of everyday still life
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till life photography may not be as ubiquitous as landscapes or portrait photography, but it has a lot going for it as a subject matter to work with. For a start, it’s virtually limitless, as there are no real rules about the kind of subject matter you can capture, and it’s an ideal home studio pursuit. However, not knowing exactly where to start
with the nuances of composition and lighting can put some people off, which is why we’ve asked Kasia Burke to take a look at the ins and outs of this genre and explain some of her influences, working practices and shooting techniques. She also explores some of the considerations required when working for a client and gives some editing advice.
Custard creams
Blue and white as the base colour contrasted well with the beige biscuits. I wanted to create some chaos around a classic setup. The cream was the last bit to add. Once I was happy with the composition there was no turning back All feature images © Kasia Burke
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Advanced techniques
126 The Nikon Camera Book
Advanced techniques
FOCUS ON
wildlife W
ildlife photography can be a daunting proposition. It’s a hugely attractive field, but it obviously presents plenty of challenges, owing to the wide variety of technical skills and subject knowledge needed. However, the rewards of making the effort to master these are abundant, with the chance to capture stunning photos that are captivating to look at, satisfying to produce and also often
very marketable. Over the next few pages, you’ll discover how to improve your wildlife photography, with the help of experts in the field, Robert Read and Paul Sterry, who between them run the Nature Photographers image library, which can be found at www. naturephotographers.co.uk. Read on to discover their advice, as they tackle everything from kit suggestions through to editing skills. The Nikon Camera Book 127
© Getty Images
Take striking images of birds and more
Advanced techniques
SENSE OF DRAMA
Black and white photography is suited to any subject or scene in which there is a degree of tension
striking light
The light on this tree in the foreground helps to make it stand out from the rest of the scene
Embrace the elements
Discover how different weather conditions can enhance and add more interest to your black and white photography
The weather can have a huge impact on the photographs that you produce, so it is important to know how to embrace the conditions in order to determine the mood and atmosphere captured in your black and white shots. As already discussed, the very best black and white imagery needs to embrace contrast, tones and the light – and different weather
conditions can be used to enhance this. A body of water, fog, mist and haze all have the ability to reduce the contrast of a scene and create a more ethereal high-key feel. It can create an eerie stillness that is perfect for simple, stark black and white photography. In a similar way, a dark and stormy sky can be used to create a more low-key dramatic atmosphere. A stormy
or cloudy sky is great for adding interesting textures to your imagery and a clear, bright sky is ideal for a more abstract, high-key look. The position and strength of the Sun will have a huge effect on your black and white captures and the quality and direction of the light will influence the amount of contrast in the scene. Black and white architectural
Make use of bad weather
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Stormy Embracing a stormy and unsettled sky can add texture and drama to your shot. A stormy sky is a great way to add atmosphere to your black and white.
© Pixabay
The weather can be used to create atmosphere and to convey emotion. Alex Manuel says, “In my opinion, for landscapes the weather is very decisive and is the main element for creating a good image.”
© Pixabay
Create more atmosphere in your black and white by using storms and mist
Mist Mist and fog has a completely opposite effect to a stormy sky and can reduce the contrast, creating a more ethereal, eerie atmosphere.
Advanced techniques Use the light
Discover how the angle of the Sun will affect your black and white captures Learning what impact the Sun will have on your black and white captures is key. If the Sun is directly behind you then you’ll end up with a rather flat image, but simply moving your shooting position can have a huge impact. Shooting in the morning or near sunset when the Sun is lower will create an attractive side light, which is perfect for enhancing texture for black and white captures. Low-angled light helps to define form and creates interesting shadows, and direct sunlight creates hard shadows and strong contrast.
high contrast
© Luke Tscharke
Strong blacks and bright whites are usually present whenever a black and white image succeeds
Back-lighting Shooting with the Sun behind your subject is perfect for creating a high-contrast shot with shadows and definition
exposure photography can benefit from such weather.” When it comes to portrait and fashion photography Sambugaro prefers an overcast day too, and says, “Nothing is stronger and more emotional than a model on the beach with a long black dress, crashing ocean waves and clouds on the horizon.” As well as shooting architecture when the Sun is low, Dietrich says, “I love shooting in urban surroundings at night where the city lights can create great contrasts. I even prefer when it rains, because the reflecting light grants even more contrasts for any given subject.”
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photographers often choose to work in the early morning or evening when the Sun is lower and the light is more directional. “If you have dramatic light hitting your subject, this can make the difference between an average photograph and an excellent one,” explains Tscharke. “And if your scene has strong contrasts between the black and white tones it provides much more impact. The light in the scene can help a lot with this aspect too. “I feel that great black and white images can be made in all conditions if you look hard enough,” says Tscharke. “For my infrared black and white images I am often looking for a bright, sunny day with high clouds in the sky. Conversely, days that are dark and overcast can lead to dramatic and moody images, which is especially heightened if a shaft of light can break through the clouds and illuminate the scene. I certainly prefer the presence of clouds that add interest to the sky and landscape.” Kosmopoulos explains that, “Overcast days can be especially appealing and inspiring as they tend to soften the light that falls on objects and offer a moodier illumination of subjects and the overall scene. Both conventional and long-
© Martin Dietrich
© Luke Tscharke
Sidelighting Architectural photographers often choose to shoot when the Sun is low in the sky in order to enhance the texture and lines in the buildings
Barbossa bolt
Tscharke has created a very atmospheric and dramatic image. The contrasting tones really bring out the texture in the sky and the piercing lightning bolt draws the viewer in
Frontal lighting Here the Sun was behind the photographer, which means that the image looks a little flat in black and white
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Editing your Nikon images
The essential guide to
Editing Use Photoshop to edit and transform your Nikon images from average to awesome in the post-production phase of your project
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ver the years, Photoshop has become a hugely important part of the photographic process. More and more photographers now rely on this software instead of using the traditional on-camera settings, even though Nikon offers its users all the control they could want. This is because in the post-production phase you can push your images to the next level and achieve fantastic creative results that just couldn’t be captured on your camera alone. Many factors can let down a photo-shoot, be it the weather, poor equipment or a shaky hand, but all of these flaws can be edited out and corrected. When using Photoshop you only need to master a few key techniques to ensure that every editing project looks professional and your images perfect. Once you have these skills mastered,
creative editing
We’ll show you everything you need to get creative in Photoshop for expert results
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you can really start to develop and learn to hone your creative skills. Over the next few pages we’ll run through all of the key Photoshop tools and features that you’ll soon find yourself unable to live without. Follow along to learn how to achieve the best photographic-style effects such as retro and cross processing, high-key summer lighting, textured overlays and even how to create polished high-end advertising pieces. We’ll also cover all of the key features and tools you’ll need to get started. Read on, whet your appetite and get inspired to delve further into the creative possibilities that Photoshop can offer.
Editing your Nikon images After This shot is now hugely improved, after just a few easy tweaks
Before
9000
This image looks dull and flat, and in need of some editing attention
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