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WITH almost everybody going digital these days, there are now a huge number of small cameras in use. The comparatively tiny size gives them an added advantage over 35mm film cameras, writes Ian Reid.
They can get into awkward spaces. Why would that be of use? What about copying obscure engine numbers and the like from a power unit buried in the depths of the hull?
General direction
Simply hold the camera at arms length if necessary, point it in the general direction of the number and shoot. I first did this when attempting to read my water meter on dry land. Situated in the rear corner of an under-sink cupboard and shielded by a carousel shelf, it was almost impossible to see the meter, let alone read it. So I held the camera at the end of an outstretched arm and pressed the button.
The first attempt suffered from too much glare, so I placed a piece of white paper roughly over the flash window and tried again. It worked and when enlarged on the computer screen the number was plain for all to read. I have since used this technique on an inaccessible car component and again it worked a treat.
Easily obtained batteries
While on the subject of digital cameras, if you are thinking of getting one, pick one with easily obtained batteries like AA. Special batteries tend to be expensive and not necessarily any better than the common or garden ones.
Another couple of suggestions:
Take a picture of your contact details, e.g. e-mail address and phone number. Then if you lose it, some honest person might help you to get it back. I found my first digital camera lying on a park bench outside the theatre in Stratford.
The police let me have it back when no one had claimed it after six weeks or so.
Pick a camera with an eye-level viewfinder as well as the impressive screen. In strong sunlight the screen will be well nigh impossible to use.
Ian Reid, Gentleman of Leisure(?) |
