The Digital Photography Companion

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FACE DETECTION

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Advanced cameras may include all three of these metering patterns, whereas more ba-

sic models may rely on only the evaluative pattern.

Face Detection

Cameras with face detection activated will identify people in a scene, focus on them,

and even adjust the exposure to render them properly. is technology works well and

is particularly useful for snap shooters who surrender focusing tasks solely to the cam-

era. Face detection is a big step toward improving the percentage of well-focused, prop-

erly exposed candids. It is a top feature to look for in your next compact camera.

Flash

e flash provides additional light for pictures taken indoors or at night, as well as for

outdoor portraits. All compact cameras, many DSLRs, and even some cameraphones

have built-in flash units. Look for flash controls that are quickly accessible and are not

buried deep within a menu system. Why? Because by taking control of your flash by

switching it out of Auto mode and to Flash On or Flash Off, you can improve your por-

traits (as explained in more detail in Chapter 2).

DSLRs also provide the option for mounting external flash units in the hotshoe atop the

camera. is is an important feature for event photographers because a flash positioned

higher above the lens (than built-in flash units) will greatly reduce the chance of red eye

appearing in the photographs.

TIP ▼

If you ...