One of the neatest features of digital cameras is their ability to support a wide range of features as part of taking a photo. For example, better lower-end models and higher usually support the ability to change photo effects, such as taking a picture in black and white, colour, using a sepia tone, or more abstract methods like a “solarized” look. This can greatly enhance a picture depending upon the “look” you’re after, and helps to avoid the need to edit your images later using an application like Photoshop.
Similarly, these models will also typically allow you to configure different flash levels, resolutions, image sharpness, and so forth. Since the number of images that you can store depends upon the amount of memory installed in the camera, you could take the majority of your photos at a lower resolution, and then selected photos that you intend to print at a higher resolution, optimizing your use of memory.
Because all digital cameras are different, it’s important to take the time to read the instruction manual to determine the optimal advanced settings for your photos. Better still, take the time to experiment with different settings in various lighting situations to see what works best. It’s obviously a better idea to do this in advance rather than be fumbling with the menu controls as that once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity disappears.
