Kodak has announced a PCphotographer software program that will help amateurs simulate a 35 mm single-lens reflex camera on an IBM-compatible personal computer.
This is how it works: The keyboard or mouse operation lets you select a scene, appropriate film speed and type and camera position, and lets you practice adjusting camera settings, including flash.
Then a simulated photograph is exposed, developed and displayed in a simulated on-screen photo album. The software also contains a review of lens, film and camera settings.
The software leads users through basic photographic techniques, while challenging more advanced amateurs to improve their skills. The user can choose a basic 35 mm SLR (single-lens-reflex) or a more advanced simulated model with extra capabilities. They can practice metering, bracketing, controlling depth-of-field and working with fixed and zoom lenses.
Experimenters see, in seconds, how their settings affect their final pictures. The screen image shows any over- or underexposure, motion or focus problems caused by improper photographic techniques.
Beginners can work with the program on their own or complete the 15 exercises included in the step-by-step, interactive photo workshop book. It includes lessons on understanding shutter speeds and explains how light affects exposure settings in simple, easy-to-understand language. Finished pictures are evaluated either in a basic photo review or through a more in-depth analysis with comments.
It`s amazing what you can learn with the PCphotographer program. Whether you`re just starting out or are an advanced photo enthusiast, here`s a fascinating way to expand your skills and create almost every photo challenge you can imagine.
This is what is required: The Kodak PCphotographer will run on any IBM-compatible with 640 kilobytes of RAM, and a color graphics card and compatible monitor. Useful options include a Microsoft or Microsoft-compatible mouse, and a printer.
Listing under $60, the package includes both 720 kilobyte, 3.5-inch and 1.2 megabyte, 5.25-inch floppy disks, a 64-page user`s manual, an 80-page photo workshop book and a warranty. A special card is included for those who wish to exchange the 1.2 megabyte diskette for a set of 5.25-inch low density (360 kilobyte) diskettes, at no charge.
As part of the product launch, Kodak is offering 250 software packages free to high schools and colleges with established photography curricula or camera clubs. If interested, call 1-800-242-2424, extension 67.
