• Read your camera manual to become familiar with the camera settings and scene modes. If you are photographing in the snow, sporting events or at night there are modes that automatically set the best settings for these conditions.

• Shoot at the highest file size to ensure the best quality print and enlargement.

• Try to avoid photographing people in the bright sun due to the harsh shadows it creates on their faces.Try using your flash on sunny days as a fill flash for these shadows. Also, be sure to photograph with the sun at your back. Try not to shoot into the sun or bright windows because it will cause backlighting and your subject will be dark.

• Keep your background simple and watch for distractions in the background such as wires and tree branches.

• It is good to get close to your subject, but keep in mind that the flash could wash out your subject if you are too close.

• When taking a picture be sure to leave room at the top and bottom or sides in case you wish to enlarge it later. 

• Never leave your camera in a hot or cold car. The heat can fog your film and the cold will drain your batteries quicker. If your camera will not be used for a few days it is a good idea to remove the batteries to prolong their life.

• With digital cameras, it is not a good idea to shoot with a low battery. When changing lenses and memory cards be sure the camera is off to prevent dust from being attracted to your camera and sensor.

• Format your memory cards before use to prevent errors.

• To prolong the life of your picture CDs and DVDs do not write directly on them. Instead use acid free labels.

Shopping for the right kind of film can be rather overwhelming if you don't know what you're looking for! Here are a few suggestions and helpful tips for finding the right kind for you!

Where will you be taking pictures? Inside, outside...both?

Will there be lots of high-speed action?

Will you be making enlargements?

These are very important questions to ask yourself before you buy film. The wrong speed of film can really ruin your photos.

·                    If shooting inside, it's best to buy a higher speed film like 400 or 800. They don't require as much light as 100 or 200. Also be sure to use your flash!

If shooting outside, use 100 or 200 speed film. There will be plenty of light outside. If you must use it indoors, once again, use the flash!

If you're shooting indoors and outdoors, a 400 speed film is flexible either way.

·                    When taking sports photos, it's essential to use a high speed of film. Use 800 or 1600 speed film to capture your favorite player in motion. If it's getting dark outside, make sure your flash is on!

·                     To get the best quality enlargement you can, use the slowest speed of film possible. The lower the speed, the better the detail. Higher speed films tend to get very grainy or spotty as they are enlarged.

·          When using disposable cameras, make sure there is enough light and use the flash.

Tend to water damaged photographs and negatives quickly and carefully. The most important thing you can do is to prevent them from drying out because this will cause them to stick and it will cause permanent damage. Be sure not to let your photographs and negatives sit for longer than a couple days and be sure to tend to them before mold forms.

DO NOT rinse negatives or photographs in running water, this could damage the emulsion. Begin by soaking your prints and negatives in a container of clean, very cold tap water. Remove the wrappers but DO NOT force them apart, this could cause permanent damage. Soak in another container of clean, cold water. Remove any residue and rinse once more. When finished hang dry. Be extra careful with wet negatives and aged photographs because the emulsion is very sensitive. Handle photographs on the edges. If permanent damage has occured, do not throw your photograph or negative away. We offer restoration services no matter how severe the damage.

 If you have any other questions a Photo Lab Technician is happy to help!