Archive for September 2nd, 2010
If you are like most photographers, sometimes we fall into a “photographic rut”. No matter how hard you try, your photos do not have the “seasoned look” of the professionals. Upgrading your equipment only brings more of the same.
If this sounds like you, believe me, you are not alone. Here are 5 digital camera photography tips that will improve your photography skills if you sometimes struggle with taking creative photos.
1. Remember the “Rule of Thirds”.
Composition of your subject is important. Image that your viewfinder is divided into horizontal thirds. Now also image that it also is divided into vertical thirds. That would create nine segments to your photo.
The next time you take a picture try placing the subject in one of the segments to the right. The eye will travel from left to right when viewing the photo. Placing the subject in this position gives the photo an interesting perspective.
You can experiment with different positions to see what is best for you. Switch it up and see what a simple adjustment can do for your photos.
2. Let the Sun “shine” by using it to your advantage.
Experiment with the natural light that the sun gives us. On a bright day use the sun as an opportunity to be creative. Take time to learn the affect of having the subject positioned between you and the sun. Did you get a silhouette of the subject? What happened to the background in the photo?
What happens when you are between the subject and the sun? What happens when the sun is over the top of both of you? What affect did the shadows have on the photo?
On the other hand, what do you do if you have an overcast sky? When is it best to take a black and white photo?
Don’t worry about screwing anything up? Remember that you are in a discovery mode. What you learn in the process will only make you better in the end.
3. Become familiar with your camera.
Every aspiring artist should strive to be a master of the tools that they use. In no means does this mean you should study every page of the instructional manual. Most of that stuff you will never use. Make an effort to know the functions that you use well. After that, you can layer on additional functions, and try to master them.
It is essential, however, that you know where the on/off button is with looking for it. While I don’t recommend using automatic settings, semi-automatic is all that you will need for most photos. Learn to embrace the nuisances of your camera.
It is important that you know how to make adjustments to your camera and lens on the fly. Doing so will enable you to take those opportunity shots when they happen.
4. Make a “quiet photo” by avoiding distractions.
Try to avoid a “noisy” photo. Leave unwanted objects out of your viewfinder. If it is perceived that something is out of place it will distract from your picture.
As you know, it is not always possible to leave the noise out of the photo. This is especially true if the photo is taken on the fly. In those cases you must learn how to lessen the influence of the distraction if at all possible.
5. Project a positive image to your subject.
This one is simple, yet easy to understand. If you project a confident image your photos will be better. If you don’t then guess what? If you are taking photos of people they want to feel that you will show them in the best light possible. People will feed off of your energy if you exude confidence in your ability.
So, keep working at your craft and ‘fake it till you get it’. With practice you will get it. Try to duplicate your successes and know what you did when you made mistakes.
Your digital camera photography skills should dramatically improve when you follow these tips. Remember that it is ok to go outside the norm. Be bold and let your creativity flow.