Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
and recording action for action analysis. For readers who require more
in-depth information on technology issues, many very good topics and
periodicals offer up-to-date information on photography and photographic
equipment. I have listed a few in the section on research, though these lists
are by no means exhaustive.
Whatever camera you choose to use, it is very worthwhile for you take time
to become familiar with your equipment and what it is capable of producing.
That way you are sure to make the best use of your time when you're filming
your chosen subject. When you're doing research, you need to concentrate
your efforts on the nature of the movement, not on solving problems with
handling the equipment. Poor results can lead only to frustration and
reluctance to engage any further.
Film Cameras
Although film cameras can provide extremely high-resolution images, this
form of photography can be very expensive and rather time consuming.
The cost of film stock and the processing and printing processes really make
this an expensive alternative. As an art form, film photography provides
remarkable results; however, for a way of simply recording images to analyze
movement, film becomes a somewhat less viable method, particularly
measured against a digital alternative. For the nonprofessional or occasional
photographer, the advent of digital photography has made creating detailed
reference material far easier. Digital technology has made this form of
research and action analysis not only much more achievable but far more cost
effective.
Compact Digital Cameras
Today you can choose from among a wide range of compact digital cameras
that provide first-rate images of high resolution. Just as important, these
cameras are relatively inexpensive, very easy to use, and very convenient and
are easily carried in a pocket or a bag. These smaller compact digital cameras
might not offer the same range of features as a digital single-lens reflex
(SLR) camera, but the options that are available enable macro photography,
nighttime photography, landscapes, and portraits. They have a built-in
flash unit, a timer that allows for delayed exposures (particularly useful for
self-portraits), and a facility that allows for zoom and digital zoom. This last
feature is very useful for extreme closeup work, particularly if the quality of
the final image is not critical, since images made using digital zoom usually
result in more “noise,” or graininess, on the image. These cameras generally
don't have a multiple-exposure option, so sequencing of rapid action is a
little more difficult. Compact digital cameras are usually semiautomatic and
do not have manual override, which means they do not give you the option
to select shutter speed. Although they have zoom facilities, they do not have
interchangeable lenses. So, there are clearly are some limitations to this type
of camera, but they are more than capable of giving some excellent results
and remain a very valuable tool for action analysis.
