cccc Other Things
For the beginner.
Top tips on taking a good photograph
Relax the body
Don’t rely on your camera to give a correct exposure. Too bright a scene will make your subject appear dark. Use flash is necessary even in daylight.
Get in close. It’s amazing how many of us are too far from the subject leaving an unrecognizable person or object in the distance.
Think before you shoot. Take a few moments to compose your photo. If necessary, move to the left or right, up or down. What is behind the subject? Would it spoil the picture if left in that position?
Take care in focusing. When taking a shot of two or more people be careful if you are using auto-focus. Focus on a person and not the background. This spoils many a picture.
Don’t TAKE a picture, MAKE a picture. I met a Dutch photographer a few years ago who wondered why we in Britain use the term ‘Take’. I know what she meant. Take time to compose and make that picture.
“I haven’t got a good camera like you so I can’t take good photos”.
How often have I heard that? The truth is that you can make great photos with a simple consumer point-and-shoot camera, or take lousy shots with the most expensive Nikon. It's not the camera that makes beautiful images; it's the photographer.
‘Say Cheese!’ NO! Unless your subject has a lovely, natural smile it is better not to make them show their teeth. Instead, make sure your subject is relaxed and natural. Not always easy, I know.
Know your camera. Read all about it and experiment before taking important shots. It is so easy now that you can shoot seemingly endless shots on digital at no cost. Analyse your results and then afterwards just delete. Easy, eh?
Finally, if your appetite is whetted and you wish to learn more, join a camera club where you can talk with like minded, dedicated photographers who will be only too willing to help you.
Good shooting!
Peter Allen