Photo Credit: Paul Reynolds BigTallGuy
Let’s be honest, not all of you are amazing photographers – selfies not included. We all expect that we will go on holiday come back with amazing memories and even better pictures. But, thanks to a lack of practical photography knowledge, it doesn’t always happen.
This guide is for those non-professional photographers who are willing to take that extra step and improve their camera angles without much effort!
Get In Close
Getting closer to the object you are photographing is an easy solution to many of your problems. First of all, taking pictures of micro objects in a macro setting will draw attention to finer details and create some interesting shots. However attempting to get close can work against you when you are taking pictures of bigger objects, like buildings.
Once it comes down to landscape or background photography it is all about the balance of the distance between you and the objects. A camera with a good optical zoom will help you get closer without having to physically alter your position.
Light
Professional photographers keep this in mind at all times and even study light in depth. Even if you are just practicing photography as a hobby, you have to keep lighting in mind as it affects the outcome of the shot. An absence of light means a noisier (grainier) image on most cameras.
Firstly, think about the position of the light and where it comes from. For example, never shoot with the light behind you, especially the sun. It creates a shadow, which sucks all of the vibrancy out of our images.
ISO
ISO ratio is constantly in question. However, there a couple of rules to follow before you start shooting.
Make a note of what time of the day you are shooting. If it is the middle of the day, you will need a lower ISO. If it is a night time, increase your ISO. However, be aware that the higher your ISO setting the grainier your image.
The same rule applies when thinking about your object, if the object is darker, it will need a higher ISO, or if your object is well lit- lower.
Read Your Manual
The best way to know what to do with your camera and get some helpful tips and tricks is to read your manual. You couldn’t set up a washing machine without a manual. And yet we tend to ignore manuals when it comes to cameras. This is a mistake as the manual can contain all sorts of useful insights.
Also, every camera is different, it will have different requirements, standards and functions, and so make sure you make the most of them, by reading your manual.
Pictures of People
If you are photographing people, tell a joke. This will make their smile more natural and reinforce the authenticity of the picture.
If you are taking a picture of a group of people, try not to tell them that you are taking picture, and observe their behaviour. In that way you will be able to catch their emotions and represent the true joy of your holidays.
Although holidays are there to enjoy your time off, pictures are an important part of what makes the memories stand out. With quality images to look back on, you’ll create lasting memories you can revisit time and time again.
Despite the increase in megapixel count and the general technology that goes into smartphone cameras, they are still sup-optimal compared to proper cameras. A professional DSLR or Mirrorless camera doesn’t have to cost the earth, but provides fantastic results compared to phone photography. Using professional cameras, like the ones Clifton Cameras offer, will give you a better end result and a more memorable series of shots.
At the end of the day, make sure that you experiment with your images. Have fun with them, test different levels of light and play with shot framing. Only by experimenting can you find what works for you. Just make sure your equipment is up to par and get snapping.