PHOTOGRAPHY EXPOSED
by John Peters A.R.P.S.
BIT DEPTH
To be honest, I didn't bother too much about BIT DEPTH other than I knew a higher bit depth image could display more information and colours than a lower numbered bit depth image but also meant bigger file sizes. Beginners can just forget about bit depth.
Photoshop, which I used to use, has 8 bits per channel which means that an 8-bit RGB image in Photoshop will have a total of 24-bits per pixel (8 for red, 8 for green, and 8 for blue). We often get bogged down in the technical aspects of photography, which can over-complicate the issue and put some of us off photography altogether. Don't get too hung-up on bit depth.
The waterfall photo was originally photographed as a raw image and processed through photoshop as a 24 bit image, then converted to JPG, more than adequate for our use here. You can see my kit (after many upgrades) for landscapes. Note the "right-angle finder" that I purchased because the 5D has no "vari-angle" or "flip" screen to make life easier when varying the viewpoint hight. I also carried a compact camera with me, but SMARTPHONES have pretty much done away with that need now (written 2024).
TOP TIP Don't be attracted to fancy gear unless you are to use it effectively. I always carried a wee compact camera so I was never stuck if a photo opportunity arose.
TOP TIP Always use a tripod. You wouldn't buy a car and only use gears one to three. A tripod and (cable release) can give you access to all the shutter speeds, even those you wouldn't consider using in manual mode, handheld. I always carried a right angled viewfinder that allowed me to shoot from a low viewpoint if required, an extremely useful accessory if your camera doesn't have a vari-angle screen. Spend as much as you can on your tripod, if you can afford it, go for lightness and flexibility. You don't want to waste cash by having to upgrade your tripod several times.
TOP TIP With certain locations such as this (waterfall and river), it might be obvious to many but it may pay to visit such locations after some rainy days. This will ensure the water levels are high, with waterfalls making a good subject. Please be aware of danger through the risk of excessive rainy day's and the associated risks to a photographer.