Often people would claim that there is a lack of interesting subjects or that they possess an inadequate camera. As for subjects, we live in one of the most fascinating and photogenic countries. The unique mix of culture, endless festivals and sunny surroundings provide any shutterbugs with limitless picture opportunities. Any camera whether it is film or digital, be it a complex SLR (single-lens reflex) or a simple 'point and shoot' can provide you with endless hours of fun and challenge, if you care to.

If you own a digital camera, much of the fun comes from the instant preview/ review feature. The handy LCD screen on the rear provides the user with both instant confirmation and immediate gratification. It allows you to check your composition, confirm the correct exposure, try out the various camera settings and delete unwanted shots on the spot. In addition, cameras equipped with an articulate swing-out LCD screen allow you to photograph from unusual but more interesting angles.

The question most often asked by many new camera owners revolves around the choice of accessories. As always, I recommend just a clear protective UV filter and the largest capacity memory card the user can afford (if it's a digital camera with removable media). The supplied memory card is usually too 'undersized' for any meaningful photographic outings. Try to get at least a 256mb card, which currently retails for around RM 250 (price may vary according to the brand, speed and type). Familiarise yourself with the camera's features, understand its capability and limitations, then think of the other optional accessories.

With more memory available, you'll find yourself taking more pictures, experimenting more and, in the process, improve your skills much faster. With some tricky but worthwhile shots, you may want to 'bracket' the exposure. Bracketing means taking a series of shots of the same subject with variations in exposure or other settings. Think of it as "playing-safe". Some cameras do this for you automatically or you can also do it yourself in manual mode. Most pros used this technique when they are shooting certain subjects under lighting conditions that are tricky to gauge. Whether it is bracketing or experimenting with different settings and angles, the memory card tends to fill up very fast.

While we are on the subject of memory cards, it may be worthwhile to note that some people prefer carrying a few separate (and smaller capacity) memory cards than just one 'big' single card. The rationale is akin to carrying eggs in different baskets. Should something go wrong with one card, you don't lose all your images all at one go. There are photographers who go on extended holidays or assignments carrying a dedicated portable storage device that allows the user to transfer or back up the images on the move. Others simply haul along their notebook for extended storage. Still, many others prefer to review and delete superfluous pictures as a means of freeing up valuable space on the storage card. Most digital cameras also have a video output which allows you to view the captured images on a television. If you intend to connect the camera to the television in your hotel room, remember to bring along the supplied A/V (audio-video) cable. I've also noticed that a few (very few) cyber cafes are now equipped with multi-format card readers and CD/DVD burners for their customers to download and burn discs of their downloaded pictures. If you're planning to rely on this method, check in advance to see if such facilities are available at your intended destinations.

So you have all your storage needs figured out and can't find any thing interesting to shoot except your traveling companions and some clichéd scenery and landmarks? Why not practise whenever and wherever you can; in your own backyard or neighbourhood. Learn how to recognize a picture opportunity, to wring a magical moment from seemingly mundane and everyday surroundings. Train your eye by studying the images created by more experienced photographers found in print and on the web. Develop your composition skills and style through practice. Carry your camera with you as often as you can, apply a bit of imagination and have fun while you're at it.

Think of the camera as a tool and most importantly, when you see a nice picture from someone, don't go around exclaiming "Wow! Great pic, what camera did you use?" Once, you get past the unfortunate misconception that it's the camera that makes the picture; you'll start taking better pictures with whatever camera you currently own. Happy clicking!

Above article appeared in the print and online version of The Star Weekend 14/02/04.

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