Smartphones took almost one third of the photos in 2011 according to a recent research study.  This is mainly because smartphone cameras are much more accessible and Facebook-friendly than traditional cameras.  Unfortunately, the cameras in our phones are not yet perfect, so here are the top photo tips to help you take better pics with your smartphone camera. (more...) ...

  Capture your favorite people and moments in a wonderful traditional portrait.  Based on your photos,  Phototownship artists create original, handmade works of art in watercolor, acrylic, oil, or charcoal.   It takes 4-20 days to finish these very personal pieces so order now to receive by Christmas. (more...) ...

Have a wild costume?  Document the transformation through makeup, costume, etc. as you or your child are getting ready.  Keep the background simple so it doesn't distract from your subject.  Maintain the same position in each photo for a fun slide show effect.  This will be easier to do if you place the camera on a tripod.  Tripods are also great if you are taking photos of yourself.  As usual, always shoot from your child's height, not ...

Once it is after dusk, you will need your flash.  The best flash photos are those taken close enough to allow the flash to light everything in the frame.  Filling the frame with your subject will also help you to avoid getting distracting stuff in the background of your picture.  Don't worry about photographing your little devil from head-to-toe, and always shoot from her height or lower.  If you're snapping pics of people in masks, take a ...

To capture the eerie mood of Halloween in your photos, you need to get the lighting just right.  One way to do this is to take your Halloween photos at dusk.  There is just enough natural light to capture the glow of the jack-o-lanterns and the bright colors of the costumes.  Turn off your flash and use a tripod if possible.  Carved pumpkins can also add to the ominous tone.  For the best lighting effects, carve big openings and place several ...

Everyone has taken photos of the real touristy places in a city, those places that you can't avoid even if you tried.  But how do you find those cool, off the beaten track places to photograph?  Those places where the locals hang out? (more...) ...

Are you looking for some fun and unique gifts for the college student in your life?  Move in day for college dorms are already here and time is ticking.  Care packages full of snacks and useful items are always welcome but wouldn’t you like to give something more personal?  Our sister site, Phototownship, has hundreds of Artists selling unique art and craft based on your favorite photos.  Here are our top five Going Away to College Gifts: ...

PhotoTownship and ThePhotoArtBlog are helping charity OHMY Shirts spread the word about their graphic design contests to support crucial situations around the world. OHMY hosts on-going T-shirt design contests for specific causes that need attention and funds, such as providing disaster relief to Japan. If your design is chosen, it will be printed and sold through the site with 100% of net proceeds directly donated to the designated 501(c)(3) ...

It is always difficult for artists to price their work, especially if they are just starting to try to sell their art on websites like PhotoTownship, FineArtAmerica, and RedBubble.  A basic rule to remember is you can always raise your prices, but lowering them can deter buyers. So start low with the intention of allowing prices to rise.  Lower priced works of art sell faster and in greater quantities than higher priced items.  If you find your ...

  Dave Danchuk is a Canadian scrollsaw artist who creates large colorful artwork by cutting a large piece of MDF or plywood into hundreds of small pieces using his scrollsaw. The pieces are then hand painted using acrylic paints. After that, the pieces are all glued on to a backing board.   You may visit http://phototownship.com/amazedcreations to get you favorite photos turn into custom made wooden art by Dave ...