Expert: Don Wood - 6/13/2011

Question
I need help taking pictures of someone on stage in low light. My graduation pictures came out dark and the quality was terrible. I want to try a dslr but really don't know what I need. I plan to take a photography class this fall. But I would like to have the camera for awhile to get some what comfortable with it before then. It would be for hobby use only. What would you suggest?

Answer
Your pictures came out too dark because you were probably too far from the person for your flash to reach. However if you get latest Paint Shop Pro you can edit the pix to enhance the color. You will be using the Curves to lighten the image, and improve the colors. Alternative, get a camera with the capability of having an additional flash (larger). I would go into a Camera Shop, show them the pictures and ask them to advise you as to the camera and flash. Don't get too expensive a camera or flash since the likelihood you will using it for more than a hobby camera is very slim. You can always upgrade your camera but why start out with a very expensive one which you won't use but 5% of the features on it. Thanks for asking, if I can help further, please use this forum to do so.