Back in May, MakeUseOf published 10 Tips to Take Better Digital Pictures With Your Phone’s Camera.

In this article, I will address some particular common cell phone problems that users run into when taking photos with a cell phone camera; and we all know, there are plenty.

The problems addressed in these article will apply to most any cell phone camera, though I use the iPhone 3G camera for illustration.

Blurry Images

The easiest and probably most common cell phone problem with cell phone photos is they end up blurry. This occurs for a couple of reasons.

• Cell phone cameras need to be properly held. You always want to hold the camera steady with both hands. The tricky part is clicking the shutter button after holding and composing a shot. So one thing to remember is that typically the shutter of the camera does not activate until the button is released. That means you can first push and hold down the button, frame your shot, and then release the button to release the shutter. Avoid trying to frame the shot while you push down the button.

  

  Also try to rest part of your phone on one of your fingers or in the palm of your hand to get a firm grip.

• You might also try bracing your camera against a wall or on a table to help you steady a shot. Even setting up a tripod for your cell phone camera is a useful idea for portrait and group shots.
• The less ambient light you’re shooting in, the more likely you’re going to get blurry photos. Because you can’t increase the shutter speed or open the aperture wider on a cell phone camera, you need to shoot in the brightest area possible, or use a flash if your camera has one.
• If the shot is not blurry but still not as sharp as it needs to be, you can try using an image editor to sharpen the images — but this is less than ideal.

Shooting Moving Subjects

Because cell phone cameras have slow shutter speeds, it’s nearly impossible to capture moving subjects. To address this problem, you might try using an iPhone camera application that delivers multiple shots (or what is called burst mode) after the shutter is pressed. Check out this article for a couple of great iPhone photography apps: The Best Free Alternatives To Top Commercial iPhone Photography Apps

Furthermore, to shoot moving subjects like children you definitely want to shoot in the brightest possible light to compensate for the slower shutter speed. The photo below is an example of the type of moving subjects that are nearly impossible to freeze capture using a cell phone camera.

Photos Lack Contrast

As with most digital photography, photos typically lack good contrast especially when shot in low light settings. The best solution for this is using an image editor and processing photos after they are taken.

Image editors such as the free iPhone app, Photoshop Mobile, have automatic brightness/contrast tools that can make the colors in your photos pop.

Subject Looks Too Small

There’s an easy solution to this one. Shoot close. You need to zoom in with your feet, even if you camera has a digital zoom. Fill the frame with the subject of the image. This is something that you do no matter what you’re using. In an image editor, you can also crop your images to make the subjects closer; however, because cell phone cameras have lower resolution than many point-and-shoot cameras, cropping too much may result in increased pixilation, especially when photos are printed. So zoom with your feet, instead of the lens, to get the best close-up you can. Experiment with shooting from different angles to get a better shot.

Images Are Dark

The obvious problem with dark photos is that there was not enough light when you took the shot. If your camera does not have a flash and you’re shooting in a low light area without a flash, there’s really nothing you can do to address this problem except get more light on the subject. Indoor lights at night are typically not enough light for cell phone cameras. You will need a flash.

Backlight

Also, watch for what is called backlighting. That is, when there’s more light in the back of the subject than there is facing the subject. So make sure the light is coming from behind you and is facing the subject.

In my experience, camera apps like the free and pro version of Camera Plus for the iPhone address some the problems described above. While cell phone cameras may never be a good replacement for point-and-shoot cameras, the portability of mobile cameras make learning how to use them more effectively worth the effort.

Let us know how you fix particular common cell phone camera problems. Have you found an application or two that is helpful for your camera photography?

Got Questions? Ask Them Now FREE on MakeUseOf Answers!

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Many people have anti-virus software installed on their computers. They trust their anti-virus software and rely on these intelligent and powerful tools to protect their system security. However, how do you know about anti-virus software? Is anti-virus software always mighty in protecting your computer? See what you will get here.

Anti-virus Software, or Safe-defend Software, is a kind of program tool being able to get rid of all the program codes, such as virus and Trojans, etc., which are harmful to a computer.

In recent years, many terms such as Internet Security Suite, Overall Security Suite appear one after another, are also a kind of software used to clean computer viruses, Trojans and malicious software. Anti-virus Software usually integrates utilities including monitoring and identifying, virus scan and removal, as well as automatic update, etc., while some other anti-virus software also has utility on data restoring.

1. It is impossible for anti-virus software to remove all the viruses.

2. The anti-virus software is not always able to remove any virus it has found.

3. On a computer, for each operating system, there should not be two or more anti-virus software installed at the same time.(Exception is for anti-virus software that are compatible or produced by the same developer.)

4. At present, there are several ways that anti-virus software may use to deal with the infected file:

1) Clean up. The anti-virus software does not delete the infected file, but tries to clean up the virus codes from the infected file. Therefore, this way is also called Repair.

2) Remove. The anti-virus software removes the infected file detected completely.

3) Rename. The anti-virus software renames the infected file, so that the virus program won’t be able to execute as it can’t find a corresponding file.     

4) Ignore. The anti-virus software can not clean up the infected file with different methods, or users choose not to deal with the file.)

To sum up, users should be clear that the anti-virus software is always lagging behind the computer viruses. Therefore, along with updating the version of anti-virus software at real time and scanning your computer regularly, users should learn more about the computer security and network security. And, do not open an unknown file or an unsafe website; do not visit the unhealthy website; remember to update your own private password if necessary, etc. Only in this way can your computer and network security be protected and guaranteed.

Specifically for the rapid growing of all kinds of viruses, Trojans or spyware, etc., there are many anti-virus/anti-spyware software in the security market. Kaspersky, AVG are some of them which lead ahead, while there are also some new growing star, such as Spyware Cease, which has impressed many computer users by its profound security utilities and dedicated after-sales service.

Experiencing Windows XP errors? You are not alone. For most of us who upgraded to Windows XP from our old days of ‘98 and even ‘95, we expected the new operating system to be problem free. I mean the company touted the new upgraded operating system as a more ‘efficient’ and ‘reliable’ operating system with newfangled security and safeguard messages that will eliminate those buggy crashes and blue screens that Windows is so famous for.

Of course we all took that corporate marketing with a pinch of salt, as no sooner were we riding on the waves of a new shell, new technology and new possibilities, did we find ourselves in a deep sea of the all familiar blue, followed by the all annoying, siren of the sea ‘ding!’, that accompanies every other error message on Windows. This article will discuss some of the more common Windows XP errors, and how you can go about avoiding them. Many technical and support forums for Windows XP users list down more than 800 known problems with this operating system and that is a long, long list. I think one of the most common problems anyone will encounter is the infamous Rundll errors.

Till this day, there are more than 318 known rundll errors that run commonly across most platforms using Windows XP. The root of the problem lie in corruptions in the Visual Basics Library, Active X files, Java, device driver signatures and corrupt or missing command lines for programme execution. The second tier of problems lie when Windows updates itself with new security fixes and programme updates, which then will eventually turn into conflicts with existing signature and system core files.

Any install of new hardware or external devices can also lead to common Windows XP errors, which can range to icons missing, explorer hanging and a refusal to shut down. Inevitably, any and all of these problems will result in a global slowdown of the system, which is the most common problem in any platform and computer running any version of Windows. This problem affects the entire family of the Windows range, and is always found to be more of a software problem than a hardware one. Sure, installing innovative software with mismatched hardware will cause specific slowdowns, but build-up of clutter and errors in the computer memory banks and registry will lead to a universal slowdown of all critical systems.

Truth be told, resolving common Windows XP errors is really easier than you might think. All you need to do is get a good PC cleaner or a good registry cleaner. Once you have swept your system areas with a good cleaner and removed all the corrupt and bad data from your registry, you will definitely feel a difference in the speed and responsiveness of your computer. It is all down to maintenance, just like you would your car or your house – ensuring it runs smoothly, and devoid of errors.

So what are you waiting for? Download a reliable registry cleaner today to avoid encountering common XP errors.

It has been almost six years since Windows XP has introduced to the market by Microsoft’s Windows. Since then a number of operating systems such as Windows Vista and Windows 7 have made their appearance in the world of computer and technology but Windows XP still remains the favorite of the PC users all over the world. As it is quite simple and user friendly Windows XP is the most popular operating system among the PC users.

In spite of all these features all are not good with Windows XP. There are many people who have to go through a lot of problems with XP. PC users who have upgraded themselves from Microsoft Office 98 or 95 to XP expecting that they will be free from all trouble are not completely satisfied. Though it was initially promoted as a reliable and efficient operating system it has some common errors that may sometimes create disturbance. One of the most common errors is Riundll errors.

Till date there are around 320 Rundll errors that commonly run across all the platforms that use Windows XP. This problem occurs mainly due to the corruption in the Active X files, device driver signature, visual basics library, missing or encrypted command lines to execute the program. The second level of the problem happens if the Windows updates automatically with latest safety fixes as well as program updates that will ultimately conflict with the existing system core files and signature.

Installation of new devices or hardware may also create these errors starting from missing icons to slowing and shutting down of the system.  Slowing down of the system is probably the most common problem that affects excessively not only the XP but the all operating system coming out of the family of the Microsoft Windows.  These problems are mainly related to software than hardware. It is quite predictable that installing an innovative software or application or an external device and running it with the existing hardware will create problem as they do not match with each other in any way. Therefore, the computer will not only become slow but will create lots of errors in the memory bank of the computer and last and the registry will become slow like a snail.

May be surprising but the truth is fixing the common errors of Windows XP is not at all a very difficult job as you and many other people thinking. You just need to have a good registry or PC cleaner. As you clean the system areas of your PC using a good registry cleaner all the bad data and encrypted files and applications will be removed and you will certainly feel the difference in speed and overall performance of your computer. Fixing of Windows XP errors in many ways depend on the maintenance of computers. As we take care of our personal belongings such as house, cars and other items we should take care of our PC as well so that it can run smoothly and uninterruptedly.

Runtime errors in Windows XP usually occur when the program that is being used is having some problems. Likely, when you get a runtime error, the program will automatically shut down and you will lose all unsaved data. This can be very frustrating and can create much stress especially if you were doing something important. For most people, it is imperative that these problems get fixed as soon as possible. So, to help you better understand what these runtime errors are, I will discuss a couple of popular ones and explain how to fix them.

The fist common runtime error is runtime error 424. Error 424 is just one of the many errors that you may come across when using Windows XP operating system software. The message is displayed as “Run-time error ‘424′: Object required”, means that the program you are trying to run has experienced a programming error that has resulted in the program’s failure. You will find that this message is often displayed when someone is trying to use Microsoft Access 2000 while attempting to run MS Office Chart Wizard. This takes place when he is still on the data access page.

There are a couple of different ways that you can fix runtime error 424. If you really need to use the Office Chart, then the best thing to do is to uninstall Internet Explorer 6.0 or use a computer that does not have IE 6.0 installed on its hard drive. There are other Internet browsers out there that are just as good as IE, if not better, such as Firefox. Another way to fix this error would be to avoid using the chart wizard at all, if possible. You can do this by right clicking on the chart that you are working on and selecting the “Property Toolbox” that is found in the corresponding menu.

When runtime error 53 appears on your screen, this means that the file you are looking for cannot be found. Error 53 is one of the most common errors that Windows XP users get. Most people get this error when they are trying to use a new software or hardware, after it has been successfully installed into the computer. This is because one of the files that is needed to run the program could either be missing, corrupted or not installed. The unavailability of this file results in the program producing the runtime error, thus, preventing the program from opening.

There are a couple of easy ways that you can fix runtime error 53. One way to fix this error would be to completely uninstall and reinstall the program you are trying to run. You can do this by going into the control panel and selecting add/remove programs and then clicking on the program and clicking remove. You can also fix this error by updating the software or the drivers for the new hardware you are trying to use. If neither of these methods work, contact the company you bought the hardware or software from.

These are only two of the many runtime errors that can occur when using Windows XP. Most runtime errors have easy fixes, but if you run into a problem that you cannot find a solution for, it is time to call in the professionals. Remember, if your computer is under warranty, do not attempt to open it. Doing so could void your warranty. If you find that the computer is not working, send it in for repairs.

Adware is all over the Internet. From websites, to downloads, it seems there is no escaping its presence. While this may be the case, this article will discuss the primary areas where adware lurks, thus giving you a better chance of preventing it from being installed on your computer.

Freeware:

It can be argued that the most common area that adware can be found in is freeware. The reason being is because freeware is free to use and is usually supported by adware and pop up software. In short, freeware is software which can be downloaded and used for free by anyone. All the author usually wants is credit for their work. This is not to be confused with open-source software, even though they are very similar. The main difference between freeware and open-source software is that users can download and modify the code in open-source software, unlike in freeware.

Since freeware is supposed to be free to use, the author will not ask users for money. Instead, they can pay for any expenses using their own money, asking for donations, or bundling adware with their freeware. Most likely, freeware developers go with the adware option because they don’t want to spend their own money and getting donations can be difficult.

Shareware:

Shareware is probably the second most-common place adware can be found. Shareware has many similar characteristics as freeware, including the adware aspect. Both are free to download and use, but when it comes to shareware, the author usually requests that you give them a donation for using the software. While this is not mandatory, it helps keep the shareware project alive and updated. Metaphorically speaking, shareware can be categorized as using an “honor system”.

This “honor system” is primarily the reason why adware shows up in shareware. A lot of times, people will not donate for using the software and continue to just use it for free. To help prevent shareware from being discontinued, advertisers are willing to pay money to allow their adware to be bundled with the software. While adware does not show up as much in shareware as it does in freeware, you will still find adware in a lot of shareware programs today. When you think about it, adware is responsible for a lot of shareware’s survival.

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Applications:

While adware is not bundled with P2P software as much as it used to, it can still be found in these applications. A prime example where adware was bundled with P2P software is Kazaa. In the past, there was a lot of controversy in terms of bundling adware with Kazaa but, just like shareware, the adware was necessary so the Kazaa project could continue to be funded. 

Now that you know about the primary areas where adware can be found, you can take more caution in downloading these free programs. It is important to know that just because adware is bundled with these various forms of software that you should not be afraid to download them. After all, there are some very good programs that you can download for free that rival similar commercial solutions. Plus, if the adware bothers you that much, you can always pick up an adware removal tool or other security solution.

Windows Vista was introduced a while ago as an upgrade to the Windows XP and 2000 users as something more tactile, easier to use – packed with security features that will ensure the safety of your work and your operating system experience. It was also more flashy, more user friendly and gained a lot of popularity because of its more palpable interface. Though it had some compatibility issues when it was first released, Windows Vista has really come ahead in the game and has become the solution for many computer users all over the world. But of course, Windows Vista is built on the same principles as the previous versions of the OS and because of that, it is inevitably an imperfect superstructure. A word of caution here – no OS is perfect because of the degradation effects of technology and the human element in the mix. There are actually quite a few common Windows Vista error messages and this article will discuss how to troubleshoot them if you ever encounter any of them.

The solution is no different from the solution that was available for previous editions of Microsoft’s incarnations. The common element here is the registry, and Windows Vista still operates with the registry as the integral matrix that it uses to ensure that all operations within its operating system environment run smoothly. With the registry, no matter how advanced the OS, common problems will always occur. When ever you introduce third party software and programs in Windows Vista, you will introduce the potential of new problems, especially in the registry. Bad registry keys left by rogue programs, invalid entries left by incomplete uninstalls and orphan keys are still features of an unhealthy Windows registry – be it XP or Vista. Surprised? Don’t be. Microsoft invented the registry for the simple fact that all executions in the computer need a reference point and all instructions for the different programs need somewhere to be stored. It hasn’t changed at all.

The same problems that made those runtime errors, mediahub errors and Active X errors still exist in Windows Vista, and would most likely still exist in future incarnations of Windows. The good thing about most of the registry cleaners is that they have adapted to the new operating system and is compatible with the new code and language that Vista is using. A quick look on the internet reveals many registry cleaners that have the ability to interface with Windows Vista and solve the problems that its registry might incur. Another good thing is that Vista has some bespoke problems that did not exist in XP, mainly because of the new security code and program structure that is being used by the operating system. Registry cleaners have adjusted to this and responded with more feature packed cleaners. Troubleshooting common Windows Vista error messages is now easy with the new stable of registry cleaners out there. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that a new OS means a trouble free registry; you still need dedicated programs to deal with the problems associated with it.

Microsoft Windows XP is considered to be a reliable and stable version of Windows operating system. However, it is still possible that it unexpectedly crashes and dies. It can occur due a number of reasons, and is quite possible to avoid. You need to be prepared for the same to save your mission-critical data in such situations. In case if you can not handle the situation and data loss occurs, Windows Recovery is the way to go.

Following are some general steps that you can follow if your MS Windows XP computer is looking dead. All the below steps need to be followed in a proper order:

• Check out your system hardware. Verify that the power cables are properly connected, CPU ventilator is functioning properly, and the hard drive is spinning up. Hard drive is one of the most sensitive components of your computer system, which may fail over time due to various reasons like power outages and accidental drop down.

• Check whether your system displays the BIOS (Basic Input/Output Systems) screen. If you can not see anything, check monitor cable to make sure it is attached properly.

• Check that the MS Windows XP boot window is displayed. If it is not displayed and you encounter some error message, the problem may with system boot sector. You have to repair Windows XP bootloader or MBR (Master Boot Record).

• Revert the changes if you have recently installed a hardware or softwre, or made any changes to BIOS.

• If Windows XP is booting, but it crashes over time, the problem may be due to a damaged system file. Copy the affected file from Windows XP boot CD and reboot your system.

If none of the above helps you to fix the problem, file system or any other system metadata structure corruption may be the cause of this problem. In such cases, you need to format the hard drive and reinstall operating system. Though, formatting helps you to fix most of the hard drive related problems, but it also removes all data from hard drive and need Windows Data Recovery to be sorted out.

It is possible to recover windows partition with the help of powerful third-party tools, known as Windows Recovery Software. The applications methodically scan the entire Windows hard drive and extract all lost data from it. With read-only behavior and simple graphical user interface, the tools are safe and easy to use.

Stellar Phoenix Windows Data Recovery is an efficient software to ensure absolute recovery of all lost Windows data. It recovers data from FAT16, FAT32, VFAT, NTFS, and NTFS5 file system partitions. The software is designed for Microsoft Windows 7, Vista, 2003, XP, and 2000.

NTBackup is an inbuilt utility in Windows that enables you to create a .bkf file to backup your data. Earlier, the NTBackup was only available in Windows XP, but now it is also supported by Windows Vista. Thus, you can create a backup of your data using an earlier Windows version and upgrade your system to Windows Vista without worrying about your backed up data as it shall still be available. However, in case of any corruption issues occurring due to BIT difference between the two versions of Windows, the data stored in the .bkf file may become inaccessible. To resolve such issues, you need a powerful BKF repairtool to retrieve your data.

There is a common myth among people related to .bkf file. That is:

· Windows NTBackup tool is not supported by Windows Vista. If a .bkf file is created using Windows NTbackup tool in any version of Windows and then upgraded to Windows Vista, the backup up data may get deleted or corrupted..

As stated, these are common notions believed by people. Unless these people come across the reality, they will go on believing these myths. However, in contrary, the reality lies way beyond. The fact is that Windows Vista now supports NTBackup tool. Thus, you can create a .bkf file any earlier version of Windows and use it in Windows Vista.
There is no harm or danger in using the .bkf file in Windows Vista unless the .bkf file gets corrupted due to BIT difference between the two version of Windows. If the .bkf file gets corrupted, you may not be able to use the file to restore the data. The situation may worsen if you lose your backed up data from the .bkf file.Thus, to avoid such situations, you need to repair BKF file using a third-party BKF repair application. These are sophisticated utilities that employ highly influential scanning mechanisms to retrieve the data from the corrupted .bkf file completely. These utilities restore the .bkf file without altering the original contents of the file. In addition, the interactive graphical user interface of these tools make them user-friendly and self-explanatory.