If you have a basic sort of camera, you might, at some stage, feel the need to upgrade. But why? Because, by having more features and added flexibility, you can take better photographs which are not only improved in terms of raw quality but which also can show your added creative abilities.

You might have a basic camera at present. The next step would to think about getting one with added features such as shutter speed control or aperture control. Even better, choose a camera that lets you select full manual override. This allows you full control over shutter speed and aperture.

With manual control you can still let your camera choose an exposure setting but you can override the settings. Your camera will advise you but you can define the settings for your own particular needs.

Take, as an example, a beautiful coloured kite in the sky. The camera will choose settings that will take into account all the bright bits of the sky. The kite will be in shadow. With manual settings you can give the image more exposure and get the kite just right