How can i get good sharp clear crisp pictures

Question

i have a nikon D40

Answer 1

I sometimes manually focus for certain pictures--for example, portrait--I try to focus on the eye(s).

Like this one:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/little_pook...

Click on all sizes to see larger one.

At times the lights give it more contrast, too.  

Answer 2

Proper focus and lack of motion of either the camera or subject, depending on the conditions.

You need to set the focus point so YOU control where the camera focuses, not some automated selection point.

Be sure you have a fast enough shutter speed in low light conditions. You may have to raise ISO or use a tripod to insure against camera movement and resulting blur. But even if on a tripod, remember, if your SUBJECT moves, there will be blur.

Most digital photos benefit from some post process sharpening in the computer, but you must have a properly focused, non blurred photo to begin with. Software cannot focus your camera or magically fix a blurred photo.

steve

Answer 3

Use the lowest ISO you can. Shoot in RAW. Use a tripod and cable release to minimize camera blur. Make sure you have the lens as clean as possible. Use a lens hood to prevent extraneous light from hitting the lens and robbing contrast. Remove all filters.

All of these things will make a difference. The most important thing for image sharpness and clarity is the quality of the lens. A D40 with a 17-55mm f2.8 pro grade lens is going to produce a better image than a D300 with a $129 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6. A lot of people make the mistake of blowing most of their budget on a camera body and leaving very little for the lens. The lens is what gets the light from the subject to the sensor of the camera. The better that piece of glass is, the better the result.

A good lens will stay with you through the life of several camera bodies if you look after them and choose them wisely!