Ways to Use a Document Camera
Digital cameras offer a convenient way to photograph documents or make a record for later reference. Most have a dedicated "macro" setting that allows for close focusing. Some have a specialized "document" mode that sets the lens to macro and adjusts the exposure for the greater reflected light coming from white paper.
Photographing Documents
Practice taking macro shots on small print like the Bible.
Photographing a piece of paper works best in good light. Try to work near a window or large interior light, but pay attention to your own shadow falling on the paper. Select a macro setting or the dedicated document setting if it's provided.
Fill the frame with the document or section of document. Take a test shot with flash and another without it. Sometimes a flash will "bounce" off the page, leaving an over-exposed area. If that happens, turn the flash off.
Look at the exposure values for the test shot without flash. If the shutter speed is longer than 1/30 of a second, it's difficult to hold the camera still enough for a good image. Try moving to a spot with more light, or increase the ISO speed of the camera. Increasing the ISO has the effect of making the imaging device more sensitive, but it comes at the expense of introducing more noise.
Using a Camera for Documentation
Photograph valuables for insurance purposes.
A point and shoot camera is a handy tool for photographing wiring or plumbing around the home. It's not always possible to take a small part along to the hardware store, so a photo is useful, particularly if you don't know what that part is called.
When removing a motor from a heating or air conditioning unit, use a camera to document how the wires were attached. During reassembly, you'll have a record of it and you're far less likely to put one in the wrong position.
Use the camera to make a record of scratches and dents on your car. If someone claims you damaged his vehicle, you'll have a photo with the date.
Photograph your library card. In the camera setting menu, protect the image so it cannot be erased. If your camera is lost or stolen, there's a chance -- albeit a slim one -- that your camera will be recovered and returned.
Make a photo record of your valuables. Be sure to include macro shots of serial numbers. Remove the memory card and keep it in a secure place like a safe deposit box.
The Technician's Friend
If you work on small, intricate devices, take lots of photos.
If you repair intricate, technical devices like laptops, cameras or watches, use your camera to document the disassembly process. This makes reassembling the device much easier and you're less likely to make a mistake. In an industrial environment, photos can be used to train other workers and document failures in an effort to identify trends.
Tips for Sharper Photos
Steady the camera by putting an elbow on the knee. Improvise!
Most blurred photos result from camera movement. Here are a few simple tricks to help you take better photos.
Keep your elbows in contact with your body. Put your hip or waist in contact with the table if you're taking macro shots. Sometimes you can put one or both elbows on the table. Take a deep breath. Let half of it out, then hold your breath and slowly squeeze the shutter.
Use any nearby objects to help steady your hands. Perhaps you can lean on a wall, use the back of a chair or pile up a couple of books as a camera rest.
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