FAQ

F.requently A.sked Q.uestion is your first source for quick answers. I do enjoy hearing from my readers so, if you can't find it here, feel free to contact me.

Q - Are the 'sample images' in your reviews straight out of the the camera? What settings are being used?

A - This is a good question that requires some explanation. Most cameras are capable of producing images that are many times larger than what will comfortably fit on the screen. Downsizing, which might hide some image quality issues, is inevitable. I generally shoot in a RAW format and utilize Lightroom for RAW conversion with mostly default settings. These images are then converted to a compressed .jpg and resized to be web appropriate. All these conversions and compressions do affect image quality so the sample images should be taken with a grain of salt.

There is also the question of post processing. My goal is to show as close to neutral as possible so that users can see how the gear performs. But sometimes the photographer instinct wins out and the images get a second chance at perfection. When minor post processing is performed, usually crop, levels, and white balance adjustment, these changes are documented in the images description.

Q - Why?

A - Two reasons, I guess.

Much of my personal website work is centered around sailing. Which is great. Except in the dead of winter when the wind blows quite cold and most sane folks look elsewhere for fun until Spring returns. Although I continue to race the 'Frost Bite' series in my Laser, I realize that focusing on a dryer and warmer hobby makes sense.

The second reason is that I enjoy reading about this stuff. I read some of the more technical review sites. But I also enjoy reading other photographer's experiences and opinions about the process of photography. This site is my tiny contribution in return for the information and knowledge I've learned from other web authors.

Q - What photography sites still keep your interest?

A - I frequent the following three sites which yield three different views from three (very) different photographers:
www.strobist.com
www.kenrockwell.com
www.visualsciencelab.blogspot.com
I should also mention a few of my own sites while I'm creating a pseudo 'links' section:
www.camera-archive.com
www.raceonedesign.com
www.lasertrader.org
www.sailnut.com
And my photo blog where some of the outtakes from my work here are displayed.

Q - Who pays you to write all these reviews? Where do you get the gear you need to create them?

A - I cover the cost of running this site out-of-pocket. I also cover the purchase costs of the gear I review. Most of it is purchased locally second hand. I am usually able to recoup most of the gear cost by reselling when the review process is finished. Hopefully, in the future, targeted ads from Google Adsense and affiliate programs will generate enough revenue to support the site and my time investment in it. The site is currently signed up with the following affiliates:
Adorama
Amazon
B&H
eBay
But those avenues of revenue don't pay much until the site grows in popularity. The best way to get the word out is by gaining exposure through link exchanges. Some of the relevant sites that now link to Camerology are:
Photo Restoration, Retouching, Restore
Photo restoration and photo retouching specialists. Services include photo restoration, photo retouching and photo repair.
Best Shot Factory
Abstract flower photography and fine art images for licensing. Promoting the photography of photographer assaf frank. Fine art prints, stock library and licensing website for use for wall art, editorial, products, wallpapers and greetings.
Clane Gessel Photography
Award-winning seattle wedding photography. As seen in seattle bride magazine and inside the space needle.

A - I have a number of pieces of gear on deck waiting for review. And yes, I always enjoy hearing from my readers about which gear might need some press.