This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: TheJimHooper Surnames: Daniel Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/surnames.daniel/2221.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: David, This is strictly a friendly recommendation. 1. You might adjust your camera for backlit exposures when taking backlit scenes. Most modern digital cameras have this feature setting. You might need to experiment. Backlit is when the item that is the most important in the picture is in the shadow and the background is well lit. Backlighting can lead to the background being overexposed or "washed out" but the subject will be properly exposed. 2. If your comera does not allow for automatic backlit exposures, learn how to do it manually. You will definately need to experiment but it is worth the effort. 3. Generally, the best solution is to use "fill flash". "Fill Flash" is when you use the flash in daylight conditions but at reduced power (brightness). Also, almost all modern digital cameras offer this feature. While not always 100% successful it is BY FAR the best way. This allows you to have properly exposed backgrounds AND brightened foreground exposures. 4. You can spend way too much time "Photoshoping" your images (generally with reduced quality results). Garbage in garbage out. I know it is time consuming, expensive, laborious and with much love that you do what you do. I do it myself but just a couple of tweaks will greatly increase the quality with minimal effort. Increased quality with minimal extra effort is always good. You will notice an immediate increase in quality and visual appeal if you give it a try and master the techniques. Hope you don't feel insulted and if it helps I've made every mistake in the book. But, you know what they say, you don't make progress if you don't make mistakes. Best, Jim Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.