Bright Light, Big Color: Using EV and White Balance to Make Your Photos True to Life

terrain

Story by terrain

Published on Oct 25, 2007 in Seller Handbook

Photo by terrain

Taking a great photo is all about managing light. Nothing is more frustrating than photos that turn out too dark, too washed out, or off-color. It’s a particular challenge for sellers who have to use artificial light rather than natural light due to time constraints or inclement climates. Luckily, your digital camera has a few handy tricks — exposure value (EV) and white balance — that can help you overcome these challenges and snap your way to better, brighter photos.

How Does EV Work?

Evaluative metering is the term used to describe how the camera divides an image into different zones for light metering — it evaluates the lighting conditions and makes adjustments to exposure based on the position of the subject, the brightness, direct light and backlighting, and a multitude of other factors. Essentially, evaluative metering performs the same functions as the human eye.

However, cameras are not as perfect at adjusting exposure as our eyes. In overly bright or underlit conditions, a little manual compensation is required. Exposure values are the numeric values (+1, -2, etc) which describe a particular combination of shutter speed and lens aperture. On most cameras the exposure values are measured at one-half or one-third stops. The default or no-compensation level is set at 0. By raising or lowering EV from 0, you adjust the shutter speed/lens aperture which allows either more or less light to reach the camera’s sensors, thereby brightening or darkening your photograph.

How to Use Exposure Values (EV) and Evaluative Metering:


photos by terrain

1. Even a basic digital camera should offer evaluative metering. Use your camera’s manual to locate the evaluative metering function. The icon typically looks like this [ (o) ]. Your camera may have other light metering modes such as centre-weighted averaging and spot AE point, but for now, make sure the regular metering function is selected (it is most likely the default setting).

2. You should also have an exposure value (EV) scale associated with the evaluative metering function on your camera. The icon for this scale will often appear as “+/-0”. Select this icon and you will see a simple scale with 0 in the middle and a +1 and +2 on the right or top, and -1 and -2 on the left or bottom.

3. Aim your camera and focus on the object you are photographing. Use the arrow keys (or equivalent) on your camera to move up or down the scale. Watch the camera monitor and you’ll see the shot you’ve composed become brighter as you move up or to the right of the scale, and darker as you move to the left or down the scale.

4. If you have a white object in your scene, use it to gauge when you’ve reached the appropriate brightness level, or place a white object temporarily in the picture to judge the light levels. When you’re satisfied with what you see, press the shutter button and you’re done!

Tip: When shooting in low light you’ll want to raise the EV to brighten the shot, but to do this the camera takes a longer time to gather light and take the photo. This can exacerbate “camera shake” (the tiny movements caused by even a steady hand or by the mechanics of the camera itself). To compensate, use a tripod and press the shutter button cleanly and gently. Most digital cameras have a timer function, in which case your finger wouldn’t even be pressing the tripod-mounted camera when the shot is taken.

How does White Balance work?

White balance is the balance between cool and warm light color temperature captured by your camera’s sensors. Color temperature describes the spectrum of light as it is measured in Kelvin, from “warm” light (low Kelvin) to “cool” light (high Kelvin). See the chart below for a range of common light sources and their relative temperatures:

1000-2000K Candlelight
2500-3500K Tungsten household lightbulb
3000-4000K Sunrise/sunset (clear sky)
4000-5000K Fluorescent lighting
5000-5500K Electronic flash
5000-6500K Daylight with sun overhead
6500-8000K Moderately overcast sky
9000-10000K Shade or heavily overcast sky

The lower the temperature of the light, the more of a warm or orange-ish color cast will be visible in your photographs. The higher the temperature, the colder or bluer your photos will appear. Using pre-set white balances allows your camera to accurately judge and compensate for the light temperature of your composition, and the result is a photo with truer, brighter colors.

How to Use White Balance:


photos by terrain

1. Not all digital cameras offer white balance customization, but most offer preset white balance settings that match commonly used light sources. Use your camera’s manual to locate the white balance function. The icon usually looks like a little lightbulb. Select it and you should see several presets from which to choose. You may also see an icon “AWB” which stands for auto white balance, which is the default setting.

2. What kind of light are you using? It is crucial that you match the preset white balance setting to your light source. Natural source presets typically include “daylight” and “cloudy.” Artificial presets may include “fluorescent,” “tungsten” (incandescent), and “daylight fluorescent” (halogen). Note how the color tint on your camera monitor will change if you flip through the different presets. Select the preset that matches your light source and snap your photo.

3. If your camera has a custom white balance setting, take advantage of it! Select the “custom” option icon and place a white piece of paper or cloth in the scene. Aim the camera so that the entire frame is filled with the white object. Press the “set” or “enter” button on your camera. The camera reads the white object and uses the data from it to set a custom white balance for your composition. Now you can continue to photograph your items.

Tip: If using a custom white balance, keep in mind that any changes to your composition will throw off the data used by your camera to make the custom setting. This includes any changes to your lighting and even alterations to backdrops, props and reflective surfaces. If you need to rearrange your scene, be sure to set a new custom white balance.

Using EV and White Balance together:

EV and white balance can be set totally independently of each other, but still used together for maximum results. If you raise EV to brighten a photo but neglect to adjust white balance, you may have a brighter photo that still has a blue or orange tint. Conversely, if you adjust white balance to match your lighting conditions but don’t adjust your exposure values to compensate for an underlit scene, your colors may be true but the photo may remain too dark overall.

Tip:

Because EV compensation requires more fine-tuning than white balance, set your white balance first and adjust EV second.

Happy snapping!

Discuss: 229 comments

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  • cupcake2create

    cupcake2create says:

    Great information thank you .

    4 years ago

  • IngasGems

    IngasGems says:

    Thanks! Very useful info!

    4 years ago

  • fuzzyfibers1960

    fuzzyfibers1960 says:

    thanks for the info! this is my least favorite part of my creating.

    4 years ago

  • Knitsteel

    Knitsteel says:

    Thank you. I really needed the explanation on white balance!

    4 years ago

  • wunderbug

    wunderbug says:

    thanks so much for sharing, terrain!!

    4 years ago

  • HeyMichelleAdmin

    HeyMichelle says:

    Awesome! Very informative!

    4 years ago

  • chickadeebeads

    chickadeebeads says:

    Thank you so much for sharing this!

    4 years ago

  • Blondezillabeads4fun

    Blondezillabeads4fun says:

    I'll try this today ! Thanks so much for your expertise :D

    4 years ago

  • jewelryforallages

    jewelryforallages says:

    Thanks, one day I'll get the knack of this.

    4 years ago

  • Brooklynbee

    Brooklynbee says:

    This is really informative and interesting. Thanks!

    4 years ago

  • hobbledehoy

    hobbledehoy says:

    Learning those tricks earlier this fall made a *huge* difference in my sales. I went from having really washed out photos to slightly more balanced ones by adjusting the EV. Great lesson!

    4 years ago

  • juln

    juln says:

    Grand article! I've been trying to figure out what EV stood for for years. I do find that whatever my settings, my photos almost always require a bit of foozling in my photo editing program - 'set white point'.

    4 years ago

  • littlegirlPearl

    littlegirlPearl says:

    I so appreciated this article. Not only do I struggle with a moving model(my 2 yr. old), but the lighting has been one of the biggest challenges. Tomorrow, I'm off to fiddle more with my camera. Thank you!

    4 years ago

  • quirkybags

    quirkybags says:

    Thank you for this article, terrain!

    4 years ago

  • BlueLadyBeads

    BlueLadyBeads says:

    Very informative, thank you.

    4 years ago

  • estherly

    estherly says:

    Thank you very much for sharing! Definitely a great help for newbie like me :)

    4 years ago

  • BKMHattitude

    BKMHattitude says:

    Fantastic article, now if I can only find my camera manual. Thanks

    4 years ago

  • fernfiddlehead

    fernfiddlehead says:

    I feel as though someone just turned on a light. Thank you for this great information.

    4 years ago

  • GreenMamba

    GreenMamba says:

    Very illuminating, terrain! Thanks!

    4 years ago

  • Psculptures

    Psculptures says:

    Great info, terrain! I sure needed this important lesson in digital photography. Hopefully it result in much-improved shop photos, thereby increasing sales potential. Thanks so very much!

    4 years ago

  • habbags

    habbags says:

    Thankyou, alerted me to functions I didn't know I had on my digi camera...big learning process, but such fun, especially snapping in very different environments!

    4 years ago

  • LillyRoseBowCompany

    LillyRoseBowCompany says:

    Thanks a bunch! Very imformative and helpful. I will get to work tomorow improving my photos, therby improving my shop!

    4 years ago

  • windyhilldesigns

    windyhilldesigns says:

    Thank you so much for sharing this info. I'll be changing my photos tonight.

    4 years ago

  • desertnana

    desertnana says:

    your ability to explain step-by step- is extraordinary and receiving a standing ovation from me!!!!!! Now can you write a complete Manuel encompassing absolutely everything involved in setting up and Etsy shop from start to finish?? =)

    4 years ago

  • ThePeachTree

    ThePeachTree says:

    Great tutorial! You make it sound so simple!

    3 years ago

  • agapegems

    agapegems says:

    Thanks so much!! Your explanation is much clearer than the manual that came with my camera!

    3 years ago

  • AmandaYuDesign

    AmandaYuDesign says:

    Thanks for the useful info. :)

    3 years ago

  • spunsilver

    spunsilver says:

    Just what I was looking for!

    3 years ago

  • kylieB

    kylieB says:

    Oh wow fantastic, Thank-you!

    3 years ago

  • soapychica

    soapychica says:

    this is such a great article-even I can follow it -Thank you so much!

    3 years ago

  • curlsofsunshine

    curlsofsunshine says:

    this helped a lot...there are things on my camera I did not know I had!

    3 years ago

  • breedingfancy

    breedingfancy says:

    Very informative. How did I not see this article sooner? Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • cushylife

    cushylife says:

    Thank you so much for sharing these very useful information!

    3 years ago

  • meraldesigns

    meraldesigns says:

    how informative, thank you so much....

    3 years ago

  • charleneofdomus

    charleneofdomus says:

    thanks very helpful. I just pulled out my user guide

    3 years ago

  • MonasMane

    MonasMane says:

    Thanks, before this I didn't even know what ev and white balance was!

    3 years ago

  • TwilightKnits

    TwilightKnits says:

    Oh I'm so glad I found this article! My pictures needed to be better!

    3 years ago

  • hipclothing

    hipclothing says:

    Thanks for the tips!

    3 years ago

  • nadessicco

    nadessicco says:

    Ooooh! Great!! Thank you so much for sharing the very useful information!! I'll use it everytime from now on for a snap!!!

    3 years ago

  • moonpics

    moonpics says:

    Thank you!! About the WB I knew, but I'm going to try the EV adjusting straight away!

    3 years ago

  • mpaperarts

    mpaperarts says:

    Can't wait to try this out - I am dying for consistant photos and no more orange glow!

    3 years ago

  • StudioYTE

    StudioYTE says:

    Always looking for ways to improve...many thanks!

    3 years ago

  • LuminousMom

    LuminousMom says:

    GREAT information... I will openly admit I never had a clue what those settings were on my camera, lol

    3 years ago

  • krystalsbykrystallee

    krystalsbykrystallee says:

    Wow... this was the best info I have found! Thank you....

    3 years ago

  • suzicook

    suzicook says:

    Thanks for the info. I'm off to the FUJI site to find out where these settings are located on my camera.

    3 years ago

  • worksandfinds

    worksandfinds says:

    Thanks for great info. Pictures are my sore point. I'm going to work on it.

    3 years ago

  • Jewelry4AllTime

    Jewelry4AllTime says:

    We plan to use this info. with the new "Studio Photo Box Tent Kit Photography"when it is delivered. Thanks for the article! Great info!!

    3 years ago

  • thebline

    thebline says:

    Helpful info! Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • dropyourdrawers

    dropyourdrawers says:

    so helpful thank you!

    3 years ago

  • pleinair47

    pleinair47 says:

    Thanks for sharing! Now I have a better understanding of the terms and functions on my digital camera.

    3 years ago

  • TheBornAgainBoutique

    TheBornAgainBoutique says:

    yay! a straight forward answer with easy instructions - I'm off to go play!!

    3 years ago

  • colorpoetry

    colorpoetry says:

    Thank you so much! Instead of buying a new camera I now see that my current one will do everything I need.

    3 years ago

  • Lesbijouxcrealune

    Lesbijouxcrealune says:

    very helpful, thanks!

    3 years ago

  • Waterrose

    Waterrose says:

    Thank you. I'm experimenting tomorrow!

    3 years ago

  • peaseblossomstudio

    peaseblossomstudio says:

    LOL, I just read this and never heard of EV! Thanks so much terrain! I still bought a new camera today, though. ;-)

    3 years ago

  • ChattyCatsArtWear

    ChattyCatsArtWear says:

    A thousand thanks! I have a great camera, the Pentax Optio, which I love...however, it fights me every step of the way with regard to lighting. Now that I know it's actually me that's the dummy, I expect to create finer photos. This was especially helpful, since I've had the camera several years (and several moves), and finding the manual that came with it would be nearly impossible!!:)

    3 years ago

  • KatieAnnCreations

    KatieAnnCreations says:

    I am definitely going to try this thanks!!

    3 years ago

  • reneeandriole

    reneeandriole says:

    Great article, I have such issues with the photos sometimes

    3 years ago

  • 1ForYou

    1ForYou says:

    Thanks for the tips! I can sure use them.

    3 years ago

  • ClareBears

    ClareBears says:

    Wow - that's really useful. It's been of help already!

    3 years ago

  • agmode

    agmode says:

    Very useful info. Thank you!!

    3 years ago

  • JanFairhurstPottery

    JanFairhurstPottery says:

    excellent-- just the info i needed!

    3 years ago

  • ArtBalance

    ArtBalance says:

    Thank you for a wonderful, accessible article! Fab writing.

    3 years ago

  • eileensf

    eileensf says:

    Thanks for the tip. I'm going to try it.

    3 years ago

  • acousticdragonfly

    acousticdragonfly says:

    Thanks so much for sharing. I appreciate your time, and your talent. :-) Have a great day, Lisa

    3 years ago

  • rlevenkron

    rlevenkron says:

    I never knew about all this - thanks for the tip!

    3 years ago

  • RJBDesigns

    RJBDesigns says:

    Thank you so much for the tips! Amazing how many things I have learned from Etsy in the last week! What a great place to shop, work and learn:)

    3 years ago

  • SparkleRocks

    SparkleRocks says:

    Oh perfect, I really needed this. thanks!! :D

    3 years ago

  • CandiedBeauty

    CandiedBeauty says:

    incredibly helpful!! i was looking everywhere for camera settings..thanks to this article i am now getting a mostly white background when i use my handmade light box. Thank you SO SO SO much! YOU R AWESOME!

    3 years ago

  • MessyJesse

    MessyJesse says:

    definately have to try this out!

    2 years ago

  • FiddlyFingerWork

    FiddlyFingerWork says:

    It's so helpful to have someone explain these things - I've really been struggling trying to understand the workings of my camera and how to get a good picture from it, thank you

    2 years ago

  • violetribbon

    violetribbon says:

    I can't wait to get started on my shop photos after reading this great information. Thanks.

    2 years ago

  • sivylla

    sivylla says:

    Thanks so much for the useful info. I really appreciated your effort :-) I think i'll have to photograph all my items all over again :-)

    2 years ago

  • TheFourStore

    TheFourStore says:

    Amazing!! I can't wait to shoot good pictures finally!

    2 years ago

  • peagreenboatdesign

    peagreenboatdesign says:

    Mysterious camera settings are explained so clearly that they make perfect sense now. This is great information - thank you!

    2 years ago

  • shopgoodgrace

    shopgoodgrace says:

    fabulous. Thank you!!

    2 years ago

  • TheArtOfJoy

    TheArtOfJoy says:

    What a HUGE help! Thanks!

    2 years ago

  • AryalAmesJewelry

    AryalAmesJewelry says:

    Wow! I need to print this out and start putting this to work... thank you!

    2 years ago

  • ArrayedAndAdorned

    ArrayedAndAdorned says:

    Thank you!

    2 years ago

  • ladnamedfelix

    ladnamedfelix says:

    Thanks for the very informative and simply-explained article! This should really help a lot of Etsy users - including myself!

    2 years ago

  • dolliecs

    dolliecs says:

    great tips and tricks. lighting, finding the ultimate "sweet spot" is always my goal. thank you.

    2 years ago

  • magartsypartycrafts

    magartsypartycrafts says:

    I was having issues with taking photos in my studio space with my digital camera and this really helped me figure out where I was going wrong! Merci

    2 years ago

  • wildcubs

    wildcubs says:

    Was fun playing with custom white balance. But, sometimes even that is not enough. :)

    2 years ago

  • pixiecampbell

    pixiecampbell says:

    thank you, terrain! i need all of the photo help i can get!

    2 years ago

  • kendraha

    kendraha says:

    Thanks for the great info! I am going to go work on them right now with the feature I just learned my camera has. I know my photos need a lot of help! Thanks again!

    2 years ago

  • ChampagneandBaubles

    ChampagneandBaubles says:

    Geat info.! Thanks so much. Every piece of advice or help is greatly appreciated.

    2 years ago

  • CoeCreations

    CoeCreations says:

    Thanks for the great tips. Showing off your creations through a picture is tough.

    2 years ago

  • ParisPennsylvania

    ParisPennsylvania says:

    Thank you for sharing a great and informative article. I learned a lot....Linda

    2 years ago

  • ArtByHandz

    ArtByHandz says:

    I was having a lot of work before those tips having to take pictures with my cell phone after having all my camera stuff stolen and no money to invest on new ones, now I found out I need no fluorescent lamps anymore and I even can take night pictures with daylight options and ev automatically adjusted from my cell phone, didnt even know my phone had those....you roxxxxx as always, im so glad I read this post, thnkssssssssssss

    2 years ago

  • rmcotton

    rmcotton says:

    This is the best article I have read yet! Thank you so much for the help and the pointers. I just pulled out my little booklet and my camera and I learned so much! Get ready, Etsy! My photos are gonna be the bomb!

    2 years ago

  • Jrisco

    Jrisco says:

    thanks! I think I am finally grtting CLOSE to getting it... :)

    2 years ago

  • jubileebags

    jubileebags says:

    thank you, can't wait to try these tips!

    2 years ago

  • AChildsDreamParty

    AChildsDreamParty says:

    So invaluable! Thank you SO MUCH for offering this - I just got feedback that my pics can use a make-over, and this helps a ton! Can't thank you enough...

    2 years ago

  • craftaria

    craftaria says:

    Thanks for the info!

    2 years ago

  • jennydebs85

    jennydebs85 says:

    i love your advice i hope i have the patience to set my camera, you explained it beautifully.

    2 years ago

  • steampunkjewelry

    steampunkjewelry says:

    Pictures are so vital, great! great! great! article, thanks!

    2 years ago

  • pascalepetit

    pascalepetit says:

    Just got a new camera! I will try this today! Great article!

    2 years ago

  • TheBeadMall

    TheBeadMall says:

    Great Information!! Really helped me a bunch!

    2 years ago

  • eroa

    eroa says:

    awesome! thank you!

    2 years ago

  • JCMCREATIONS

    JCMCREATIONS says:

    Absolutely wonderful information! I've just started on some new things and I need all the help I can get. Thanks, again!

    2 years ago

  • JCMCREATIONS

    JCMCREATIONS says:

    Wonderful tips! Thanx so much, I can use the help!

    2 years ago

  • BigFatArtBarn

    BigFatArtBarn says:

    This was a great article,cleared up some questions I had,thanks so much!

    2 years ago

  • FullThrottleGypsy

    FullThrottleGypsy says:

    Awesome tips...I just finished with a few sample shots using the setting suggestions and my photos are 100 percent better!!! Many thanks!

    2 years ago

  • ranrandavid

    ranrandavid says:

    great tips :P

    2 years ago

  • MyVintageCollections

    MyVintageCollections says:

    Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Taking photos of my vintage china is so challenging, i.e. getting the right light, angle, and setting, and I appreciate all the advice so much!

    2 years ago

  • amoebahandmade

    amoebahandmade says:

    Hi thanks for the article. I am already using white balance, but the EV is new to me. BTW - I don't get the Kelvin values - did you get these in the right order? Surely a bright sunny day is higher than a dull dark cloudy day? Happy to be corrected! ;)

    2 years ago

  • Stoneberri

    Stoneberri says:

    Thanks for the "how to's".

    2 years ago

  • lilabelledesign

    lilabelledesign says:

    great tips, thank you

    2 years ago

  • LifeSongHeirlooms

    LifeSongHeirlooms says:

    Hard to believe how much great information is here ! THanks for the article !

    2 years ago

  • SewObsession

    SewObsession says:

    white balance i always wanted to know what that was all about, thank you for the extremely helpful information

    2 years ago

  • Scrapboarding

    Scrapboarding says:

    I am practicing as we speak! Thank you!

    2 years ago

  • marjoriescorner

    marjoriescorner says:

    This is very helpful. Helped me to better understand the white balance feature of my camera.

    2 years ago

  • psalmsoflove

    psalmsoflove says:

    i see that i really need to use these tips. thank you!

    2 years ago

  • beautifulchaos

    beautifulchaos says:

    marking

    1 year ago

  • BHBKidstyle

    BHBKidstyle says:

    The most useful article on item photography I´ve ever red. NOW I UNDERSTAND IT! Thank you ever so much!

    1 year ago

  • paperpaloozagirl

    paperpaloozagirl says:

    I dreaded referring to my camera's user manual, as I didn't understand most of the features... WOW, now I can use that manual and know more what I am doing! Thanks for the explanations! Excited to experiment!

    1 year ago

  • lovelui

    lovelui says:

    Thanks so much your article was extremely helpful, I look forward to taking my photos now - with more accurate settings.

    1 year ago

  • DareDevine

    DareDevine says:

    Thank You! Much needed info, very helpful :)

    1 year ago

  • KatieHepworth123

    KatieHepworth123 says:

    Great info. Now all I need is the instruction book for my camera!

    1 year ago

  • CustomWired

    CustomWired says:

    Thank you SO much. After a 6 year hiatus, and committed to staying home with my children, the net was the only logical choice to begin selling my jewelry again. I bought a used camera, I bought a light system and I have spent SO MUCH time taking pictures, only to be terribly disappointed in the color quality. I felt ready to quit. After reading your article on white balance, I used the custom setting on my camera and the difference!!! Wow, I am so relieved and happy I could cry. Thank you for the pointers. I am going to retake all my pictures, but it is going to make a huge difference.

    1 year ago

  • CustomWired

    CustomWired says:

    Your pointers are going to make SUCH a difference in the quality of my photos. Thank you.

    1 year ago

  • NowSoLA

    NowSoLA says:

    I just got a new camera & greatly appreciate your photo advice. Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • NoniBam

    NoniBam says:

    Thank you so much for these great tips. It's amazing how much my photography has improved since I started putting my energy into it... and it's relatively simple once you get the main concepts...

    1 year ago

  • ArtistsInMind

    ArtistsInMind says:

    Wow! I finally found the answers to the questions I've had for years about lighting. Very easy to understand! Thank you so much.

    1 year ago

  • SSDesigns4

    SSDesigns4 says:

    Thanks for posting this information. Extremely helpful!

    1 year ago

  • vintageprecious

    vintageprecious says:

    Off to play with my camera, thanks! ~vintageprecious

    1 year ago

  • Lilywinkel

    Lilywinkel says:

    Very helpful! I took my first photos and realized I needed to do a better job next time. Lighting is the trickiest thing, and you've clearly explained how to make the most of it! Thanks.

    1 year ago

  • RebirthRecycling

    RebirthRecycling says:

    Very en "lightening"...thank you.

    1 year ago

  • SueveDesigns

    SueveDesigns says:

    I can't wait to apply these tips to my pictures. I know they are in need of photographical help. - Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • sweetbellacards

    sweetbellacards says:

    This is so wonderful! Thanks so much for the info :)

    1 year ago

  • theclassicfarmhouse

    theclassicfarmhouse says:

    I cant believe I totally missed my ev setting until now! Makes such a huge difference! Can't wait to take more photos :0) Thanks for the info!

    1 year ago

  • EponaJewels

    EponaJewels says:

    Now if I could just find my camera manual! LOL

    1 year ago

  • zipchan

    zipchan says:

    Oh sweet, I've learned a lot from this! Thank you so much! :D

    1 year ago

  • DotD

    DotD says:

    Very, very helpful. Thanks much.

    1 year ago

  • LAtraffic

    LAtraffic says:

    great info. thanks!

    1 year ago

  • WalterSilva

    WalterSilva says:

    Big Hug!!! Thank you for this information, I have been frustrated with my photography....

    1 year ago

  • belleskincare

    belleskincare says:

    Thanks for sharing, very useful information.

    1 year ago

  • LilahBelleVintage

    LilahBelleVintage says:

    marking for later ☺

    1 year ago

  • AngelasAlchemy

    AngelasAlchemy says:

    Thanks for the info. I'll have to read it again with camera in hand :)

    1 year ago

  • underanewlight

    underanewlight says:

    Thanks for the tips. Your are giving me the tools to this beginner camera lady. I will put this on practice! :)

    1 year ago

  • sistersilver

    sistersilver says:

    Now it makes more sense! I have played with EV and didn't know what I was doing, so it didn't mean much. White light, I kinda figured out from someone's advice. I a off right this moment to see if I can overcome having to take pictures at a certain time of day to get them to turn out. Thank you, thank you!

    1 year ago

  • tricotaria

    tricotaria says:

    Very useful information! Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • oberschin

    oberschin says:

    I am going to try that right away... :) thank you!

    1 year ago

  • AmericanGirlinEurope

    AmericanGirlinEurope says:

    Thanks for the advice! I just got a new DSLR and I want to make my photos of European vintage items in European city backgrounds very special. Understanding lighting is everything!

    1 year ago

  • swurme

    swurme says:

    This was a great article. Thanks for breaking everything down and explaining it so well.

    1 year ago

  • yunuengems

    yunuengems says:

    A very useful article, thanks for sharing

    1 year ago

  • GoodOldDaysTreasures

    GoodOldDaysTreasures says:

    So helpful!!! I have been playing with my camera while reading this blog. I can hardly wait to take new pictures! Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • fashionL

    fashionL says:

    Thank you so much for sharing this!

    1 year ago

  • PatinaVintage

    PatinaVintage says:

    Brilliant!! I appreciate your article the best on the subject - it finally make sense to me.

    1 year ago

  • buddingcreations

    buddingcreations says:

    This has been ever so helpful! Thank you so much!

    1 year ago

  • EnchantedEnsembles

    EnchantedEnsembles says:

    Very informative! Thank you!!!

    1 year ago

  • tinyearsjewelry

    tinyearsjewelry says:

    Will have to try some of this... I wish I had more time to fool around with my camera and start out with better photos... I can always Photoshop them, but would rather get them done right the first time. thanks... Casey @ Tin Years

    1 year ago

  • aromaticbodyoils

    aromaticbodyoils says:

    Nice. Taking your pictures in natural sunlight also helps.

    1 year ago

  • aliceandrabbit

    aliceandrabbit says:

    This is just what I needed. I actually didn't realize I could get better pics out of my camera but you just taught me I can. Thanks! :)

    1 year ago

  • ShinyRockDesigns

    ShinyRockDesigns says:

    Very interesting! I can't wait to try out your tips!

    1 year ago

  • Vidalbuttons

    Vidalbuttons says:

    Cool tips, I do the EV, Macro and White Balance, specially playing with Ev. That is the trick! :D

    1 year ago

  • just2cuteaccessories

    just2cuteaccessories says:

    Thank you!!!

    1 year ago

  • bonhomiejewelry

    bonhomiejewelry says:

    i'll admit to not COMPLETELY understanding the specifics of what you were saying but i've understood enough to learn to which settings i should be paying attention and how to alter them to my benefit. thank you!

    1 year ago

  • newhopebeading

    newhopebeading says:

    My light tent and photolights have helped a lot with this

    1 year ago

  • NSpottery

    NSpottery says:

    Wow, I think I need to take a photography class... there's so much to know!

    1 year ago

  • MySongsDesigns

    MySongsDesigns says:

    Thanks! Great information! Was able to read and adjust camera at the same time, can't wait to test it out. over 200+ of my last photos from last week didn't turn out, had to manually adjust each one of them on my photo wizard and still had so many duds. Feels like such a waste of time.

    1 year ago

  • miracatta

    miracatta says:

    Thank you so much for this very helpful tutorial!!

    1 year ago

  • SparkleLynn

    SparkleLynn says:

    Yay! New camera on the way, I hope that means better photos to follow. This will help! :) Thank you for sharing

    1 year ago

  • JANICERDESIGNSNZ

    JANICERDESIGNSNZ says:

    Hi Great information for someone like me, who is yet to make my first sale. Many thanks to all those who contributed.

    1 year ago

  • den10studio

    den10studio says:

    Great tips. I starting playing around with the EV in natural light and it makes all the difference.

    1 year ago

  • naturalblendings

    naturalblendings says:

    Great info!!! I just got a new camera, and this article explains all the lighting issues that come up when trying to convey your item in a picture. Thanks!!

    1 year ago

  • susissatchels

    susissatchels says:

    As usual, great info! Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • asioriginals

    asioriginals says:

    Hello: Absolutely great information. If I could get my pictures to really reflect the colors and dimensions of my lovely jewelry - this would complete the deal for sure. Thank you for making me (I hope) a better photographer.

    1 year ago

  • ArtOnPurpose

    ArtOnPurpose says:

    Great info, thanks!

    1 year ago

  • daisydesignsgallery

    daisydesignsgallery says:

    Getting my pictures to look good is a real challenge! Thanks for your help!!

    1 year ago

  • Freyasstudio

    Freyasstudio says:

    I've got to try this! With all the rain and darkness here in Montana I can't do outside photos anymore! Thanks for the great information!

    1 year ago

  • luxe

    luxe says:

    fantastic article. i am deciding whether i can pull off getting some commercial shots done professionally because i am never happy with my photos, but i think this might really make a big difference. i learned on a manual camera and have never fully adjusted to digital, just aspire to getting a dsl...

    1 year ago

  • jenhough

    jenhough says:

    This will help so many people if they take the time. Thank you, my eyes thank you!

    1 year ago

  • coloradokathleen

    coloradokathleen says:

    Very helpful, succinct, article. It's helped me with my new camera. Thank you.

    1 year ago

  • KnittiGritti

    KnittiGritti says:

    So helpful - thanks!

    1 year ago

  • orsinimedici1951

    orsinimedici1951 says:

    OK, I give in!! Time to read my manual about white balance!! I'll probably kick myself for not doing it ALOT sooner!!!

    1 year ago

  • orsinimedici1951

    orsinimedici1951 says:

    Ok, I give in!! Time to read my manual about white balance!! I'll probably kick myself for not doing it ALOT sooner!!

    1 year ago

  • phoenixmtncreations

    phoenixmtncreations says:

    Great information! Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • WillaminaVintage

    WillaminaVintage says:

    White balance, well I'll be damned. I thought these newfangled cameras just did it all for you! Wrong.

    1 year ago

  • birdsandthebeads

    birdsandthebeads says:

    Really helpful. Great explanations. Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • peetred

    peetred says:

    Thanks so much!

    1 year ago

  • PrettyBloom

    PrettyBloom says:

    wonderful tips! thank you so much!

    1 year ago

  • AuburnFair

    AuburnFair says:

    Thank you for making a complex subject a little more understandable! I'll keep on trying for a nice, balanced pic!

    1 year ago

  • WendyExpressions

    WendyExpressions says:

    Thank you so much for sharing this information. . .i love to learn all i can about photography from different people. . .thanks again!!

    1 year ago

  • magpieshideout

    magpieshideout says:

    very useful!

    1 year ago

  • retroreclaim

    retroreclaim says:

    okay I am going to try this for my next set of photos.. let's hope I can pull it off! thx so much!

    1 year ago

  • ihearttoys

    ihearttoys says:

    This information was super helpful! Thank you! Time to go back and do a little tweaking.

    1 year ago

  • malvaly

    malvaly says:

    Taking good pictures is so difficult!

    1 year ago

  • schnibbitymom

    schnibbitymom says:

    Well, I'm glad I read this early on in my Esty experience. Like so many others on here, I really had no idea what so many of those different symbols meant. Just point and shoot??? NOT!!! Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • ElektraLoaded

    ElektraLoaded says:

    AWESOME POST! I have my pics in my light tent mastered (harder than you would imagine to get the background so crisp and clean and white)...but my pics on a black necklace bust can often be difficult to get just right...this helped a lot!

    1 year ago

  • bubicha

    bubicha says:

    Excellent information! Thank you for taking the time to write and post it.

    1 year ago

  • SandyNewhartDesigns

    SandyNewhartDesigns says:

    Thanks for the great information! I've have had such great advice for my shop and taking the photos is something I do have to improve on! So glad you posted this! Thanks for the education :)

    1 year ago

  • spinman

    spinman says:

    Very understandable explanations. I'll try to follow these. Now I understand white balance.thanks. sandman

    1 year ago

  • SigalFJewelry

    SigalFJewelry says:

    Thanks for all the helpful explanations and tips. I'm finally starting to understand all the functions in my camera. Will give it a shot...

    1 year ago

  • deeneysdesigns

    deeneysdesigns says:

    I have been searching for tips on taking photos without natural lighting and this artical has been most helpful. When you work full time during the day, photo ops in the evening makes it difficult to have bright colorful images. :)

    1 year ago

  • catmacdesigns

    catmacdesigns says:

    Good info! I really wish my cameras "how to use" booklet was not online.....would help to have it with me to refer to when I need it. But 120 pages is too much to print off.

    1 year ago

  • BluebirdBijou

    BluebirdBijou says:

    Thank you I really struggle with the blue tint- will start adjusting my white balance. Thanks for taking the pain out of taking photos!

    1 year ago

  • mylovelysunshine

    mylovelysunshine says:

    Thanks a lot for the Great explanation. I have been using white balance but not the Exposure Values. I might try that together as you suggested.

    1 year ago

  • PaintingsandThings

    PaintingsandThings says:

    Very helpful article, thank you

    1 year ago

  • LisasPaintbrush

    LisasPaintbrush says:

    Excellent information! Just what I needed, time to mess with some item photo shoots!

    1 year ago

  • DevineCollectible

    DevineCollectible says:

    When I purchased my new cyber shot camera I had bad advice, I can't wait to puchase a new camera telling me that "I'm not a photographer" which somebody on Etsy did was hurtful and I choose not to be mean in kind,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, thanx for all the good advice, peace and love, karen DevineCollectible

    1 year ago

  • DevineCollectible

    DevineCollectible says:

    When I purchased my new cyber shot camera I had bad advice, I can't wait to puchase a new camera telling me that "I'm not a photographer" which somebody on Etsy did was hurtful and I choose not to be mean in kind,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, thanx for all the good advice, peace and love, karen DevineCollectible

    1 year ago

  • Vintagefix

    Vintagefix says:

    Wow, this is such helpful info! I Can't wait to check my camera for all these cool features! Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • StrangePuppy

    StrangePuppy says:

    I'm going to master this yet! TY TY TY! I have FINALLY found the dang EV thing. And I read the book that came with the camera! ((((((HUG))))))

    1 year ago

  • receivingcuddles

    receivingcuddles says:

    THANK YOU! I have both, but did not know about the white balance.

    1 year ago

  • receivingcuddles

    receivingcuddles says:

    THANK YOU! I have both, but did not know about the white balance.

    1 year ago

  • lanadearg

    lanadearg says:

    very helpful! Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • KeepsMyHandsBusy

    KeepsMyHandsBusy says:

    Is the LCD brightness the same as what you are talking about? I was able to find that on my camera and it gives me a range starting at 0 and going + or - 1, 2 and 3....? Not so sure about white balance or where I can find it on my camera or if I have it tho.

    1 year ago

  • HighPriestess

    HighPriestess says:

    Thanks, great post. I need all the help I can stumble upon for improving my photos. I'm improving slowly but surely thanks to knowledgable advice like yours. Appreciate it..... Cathy

    1 year ago

  • CreativityHappens

    CreativityHappens says:

    Super! So glad I stumbled on this!

    302 days ago

  • EGVintage

    EGVintage says:

    Thanks so much for your helpful article. We find photography to be one of the most challenging aspects of running our business. We know a great photo shouldn't be a "happy accident". Your tips will help us work toward consistency! ~Judy and Alisa

    288 days ago

  • JewelsandCrafts

    JewelsandCrafts says:

    I could use these tips. Thanks! I've gotten so frustrated trying to take photos with different backdrops and in different lighting. I'll try to figure out how to apply your tips to my particular camera.

    270 days ago

  • MariaBjork

    MariaBjork says:

    Thank you this was so helpful! :)

    240 days ago

  • miffimifster

    miffimifster says:

    Super useful info! Thank you for posting this. ^__^

    240 days ago

  • crismadeit

    crismadeit says:

    OMG. . . I see the light! too bad the sun is on its way down right now but come morning . . . well let's just say I'm doing lots of retakes for my shops! muchisimas gracisas!

    240 days ago

  • janetzeh

    janetzeh says:

    Thanks for the tips and great explanation. Now I get it!

    240 days ago

  • KristinNoelDesigns

    KristinNoelDesigns says:

    Great tips. This is exactly what I have been working on.

    240 days ago

  • pienchips

    pienchips says:

    Sigh, I miss my old manual Pentax, lol. Thank you for the help. :)

    240 days ago

  • mykonos

    mykonos says:

    Thanks!! useful information and will try!!

    240 days ago

  • DonnasArtisanDesigns

    DonnasArtisanDesigns says:

    I wish I had read this a couple of hours ago...before I shot and edited27 pics that turned out below average..Oh well..I know now!!

    239 days ago

  • pookdesignz

    pookdesignz says:

    Thanks for your informations - it certainly helps a bunch!

    239 days ago

  • beautyforever

    beautyforever says:

    Exactly info I was looking for.. tnx.

    239 days ago

  • PicsandThings

    PicsandThings says:

    Once again thank you so much.Your labs are helping. Its retake time... for some of my displays

    239 days ago

  • charlenesbags

    charlenesbags says:

    Thank you. This helps a lot as I am a beginning photographer. My photos can use improvement.

    238 days ago

  • littlelemonade

    littlelemonade says:

    Thank you for demystifying white balance and EV! This is giving me a great chance to learn more about my camera. I really appreciate this "how to."

    236 days ago

  • JansCopperCreations

    JansCopperCreations says:

    Well written! Thanks

    229 days ago

  • jes7707

    jes7707 says:

    Thank you. Great information and so practical. I appreciate this. All the best.

    205 days ago

  • CaraMiaBella

    CaraMiaBella says:

    Great article! I linked it in my blog http://caramiabella-art.blogspot.com/2012/01/manifesting-success-taking-great-photos.html Thanks for all the info! It helped alot! ..Carrie...

    146 days ago

  • LeylasPaintings

    Leyla from LeylasPaintings says:

    Thank you for sharing! It looks like I got some work to do over the next few weeks:)

    74 days ago