Hello, Click, Hello, Ugh!!!
by Gary Woods

A lot of the new phones have a camera feature on them. Here are some thoughts about making those pictures look a lot better.

First, if your camera has a "quality" or level of compression feature, make sure it's turned all the way up to "superfine." You'll be a whole lot happier with the results.

Second, let your camera warm up. On most Camera/Phones it's a good idea to let the camera collect light for up to 5 seconds before shooting. This will give you a better chance at getting a good clear shot.

Third, brightness matters. Many Camera/Phones drastically overexpose daylight shots. To get better color, turn down the brightness or exposures setting when you're outdoors.

Fourth, don't use the flash. Camera/Phone flashes are awful. They cast a weak beam about a foot in front of your phone. Instead, see if your phone has a "night setting," which uses a long exposure to collect more light. The only downside is you'll have to hold the Camera/Phone real still for a few more seconds.

Fifth, aim directly at what you want to shoot. Camera/Phones are notorious for poor lenses which can blur on the outer edges. If you point directly at what you want to shoot you've got a better shot at a clear photo.

Sixth pay attention to quality, not Megapixels. Get a look at the picture the Camera/Phone takes before you buy, Megapixel ratings aren't everything, quality is.

If you have any suggestions or questions for me please drop me a note at garyandlaury@santabarbaraproperties.com or see my column on the Internet at http://www.santabarbaraproperties.com or call me at (805) 729-0910