PhD Physics - Associate Professor
Department of Physics, Cleveland State University
Introduction I’ve done plenty of imaging performance testing on a variety of systems, from millimeter wave to UV. Until very recently, such testing required expensive and specialized equipment. Now, with digital imaging (at least in the visible), you can perform the same type of characterization on your camera for free. Why use an LCD? All…
Note, unless otherwise specified, all focal lengths are in terms of the 35mm image format. Overview: why ultra-wide-angle lenses matter Recently there has been a flurry of new high-performance ultra-wide-angle lenses introduced to the consumer market. Their imaging properties differ substantially from other photographic lenses, and the techniques used with them are also different. Because…
Click for complete series Part 1: Introduction Part 2: Compact Point and Shoot Part 3: DSLR Part 4: Tripods Why use a tripod? Purpose: prevent motion blur A tripod holds a camera still while the shutter is open, preventing motion blur. It must maintain stability on uneven ground, in wind, and during ground vibrations. Tripod…
Part 1: Introduction Part 2: Compact Point and Shoot Part 3: DSLR Part 4: Tripods I’m ready for a DSLR! These cameras were originally designed for professionals. Users of DSLRs are expected to already understand basic digital photography techniques: in-camera electronic image processing enhances good technique but does not compensate for poor technique. Key distinctions…
Series links Part 1: Introduction to Astrophotography Part 2: Intermediate Astrophotography Part 3: Advanced Astrophotography Motivation “I’ve tried astrophotography and want to know how to improve.” Choosing a mount Here’s where I assume you are contemplating the purchase of a tracking mount — a motorized tripod. Far from being an afterthought, “A mount must relate…
Complete Series Part 1: Introduction Astrophotography Part 2: Intermediate Astrophotography Part 3: Advanced Astrophotography Level 2: I know how to use a camera — what do I need to know for astrophotography? Image processing, optics, and sensor basics Image-processing methods to reduce background and noise become much more important for astrophotography. It also helps to…
Part 1: Introduction to Astrophotography Part 2: Intermediate Astrophotography Part 3: Advanced Astrophotography Series & prerequisites For this Insight series (three total), I assume you either have a camera (with an attached lens) or already know how to attach your camera to your telescope. If you have a telescope and want to buy a camera,…
Click for complete series Part 1: Introduction Part 2: Compact Point and Shoot Part 3: DSLR Part 4: Tripods Who this guide is for This article is geared towards: I’ve never owned a camera, but I want to get a ‘real’ camera (that doesn’t cost too much). I’ve owned an entry-level camera already and I want…
Introduction Who this guide is for First, congratulations! Camera technology has advanced to the point where a complete novice, using an entry-level camera right out of the box, can take photos that (under certain circumstances) appear identical to professional photos. Regardless if you only use your camera in the ‘automatic’ setting or if you explore…
Complete series Introduction Overview First, congratulations! Camera technology has advanced so much that a complete novice using an entry-level camera straight out of the box can take photos that, in many situations, look as good as professional images. Key principle Regardless of whether you only use your camera in automatic mode or you explore the…