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DIGITAL SNAPSHOTS
Reviewing images big plus for digital
images
By PETER WEINBERGER
A common practice for digital photographers
is to review a just-composed image on the back of the camera.
Photojournalists refer to this as "chimping."
Chimping is one of the great advantages digital cameras have
over film. Used correctly, it can be an important tool to
improve your picture-taking experience.
The rear LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
monitor on a digital camera has various review and editing
functions. It is possible to see one, four or nine images at a
time (although the images are very small.) Your pictures can be
enlarged to check detail, or simply deleted. Here are some tips
on the best ways to chimp:
Chimp to check photo content. Did the
subject blink, or have an odd facial expression? Is the image
sharp? Did the flash work properly? Don't chimp to check
exposure quality, since these monitors are inaccurate for tonal
quality.
Deleting large amounts of images can be
tedious. Since most of these screens are less than two inches
in diameter, going through an entire take to photo edit is
difficult. Most real photo editing should be done after the
shoot.
It will be more difficult to use these
screens in bright sunlight or with sunglasses. It's like
looking at a TV in daylight; the screen will be hard to see.
Don't be obsessed with reviewing your images. It can be a
distraction when shooting pictures. Focus on capturing a
special moment, chimp later.
Reviewing images will be popular with the
subjects of your photographs. Be strategic on when and how
chimping will enhance your picture taking.
Reviewing your images on a digital camera's
rear monitor twill help you assess picture quality instantly.
Your subjects will also enjoy seeing the results of the picture
taking.
