Using Images to Tell Your Story - Mastering the Technology
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If you're someone who likes to do things yourself, you may want to take your own images and screen shots for your blog. In that case, you'll want to get a digital camera. When you shop for one, make sure you ask how to transfer the images from the camera onto your computer. Some cameras have a docking station; some connect directly into the computer's USB port with just a cable; some require you to remove the camera's memory stick or card and put it into an adapter to be read.
Our sister site Dev Hardware runs regular reviews of digital cameras if you're looking for some guidance. These bad boys tend to be major purchases; there are inexpensive ones out there, but a good digital camera can set you back a few hundred dollars (add another zero if you're a demanding professional photographer). Fortunately, Wal-mart boasts a liberal return policy. You can try out a camera for up to 30 days and return it for a full refund if it doesn't suit your needs. Just be sure to delete all of your pictures off of the memory card before you return the camera!
As for screen shots, I use Paint. There are many other programs you can use, however, depending on how complicated you want to get and how much functionality you need. If you're writing how-to articles and you think you'll want to highlight parts of some pictures, you'll want software that can add arrows and circles or the like. Practice with your chosen software until you are comfortable with what it does. Above all, don't be afraid to experiment. It's only pixels, right?
Photo courtesy of ZeHawk under Creative Commons license (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lastgunslinger/2224189304/).
Next: Using Images Legally Online >>
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