There are a host of imaging programs available nowadays, and you can make almost any adjustment to your digital photographs on a computer. However, it can be far more satisfying to learn how to create different effects in-camera.
This article looks at some of the easiest and most fun digital camera effects to try.
- Bulb Setting. The "bulb" setting allows you to leave the shutter on your DSLR open for as long as you want ... hours at a time, if you wish! It can only be accessed when your camera is on "M" (Manual Mode). For long exposures, you'll need a tripod or a pod to keep your camera steady. You'll need to use the self-timer feature to fire the shutter and avoid camera shake. Long exposures can be used to create artistic effects with things like waterfalls, or even to capture stars and the curvature of the earth!
- Zoom Burst. This is an incredibly simple technique to use. All you need to do is twist your zoom lens while you're taking your photo. It will create a blurred zoomed effect with lines converging on the center of your image. It's best to use this effect with brightly colored images, which will give dramatic results.
- Panning. This is a commonly used method to capture action, while still maintaining a sense of movement around the subject. To capture a panning shot successfully, you'll need to chose an AF point that covers your subject, and continuous / AI Servo focusing mode. This mode will allow the camera to track a subject and keep it in focus automatically. This should then be combined with a relatively slow shutter speed of around 1/60th to 1/100th second to allow for slight movement.
- Yellow or Red Filters. Using one of these color filters adds tones to black and white shots. Both increase the black and white tones of an image, while avoiding a bland grey mid-tone. If you have an editing program, it's best to shoot in RAW and in color, so that precise adjustments can be made after you've shot the image.
- Slow Sync Flash. Another great way to add movement to images is to use slow sync flash in the form of second curtain sync. Some modern DSLRs allow you to use a second curtain sync mode on the popup flash, but you'll obviously need a flashgun for best results. By using a slower shutter speed of around 1/4th of a second, combined with the flash firing at the end of the exposure, you can freeze action and create long light trails behind the subject.