How to make the most of a photo frenzy
By Melissa Ray
Arts Editor
August 8, 2007
 I’ve never been what you might call a “picture person.” I don’t like being included in photographs and I have never been much of a photographer. For years, I avoided cameras in all respects; I would run and hide every time I saw a flash and only occasionally would I bring a camera along in my pocket to social events, although I almost never attempted to take any pictures.
Only recently have I resented my aversion to pictures and picture taking, wanting to kick myself for not having any actual records of exceptionable occasions. As a result, I have recently purchased a new digital camera and am excited to build a photo gallery. After snapping a handful of pictures, I have realized that there is more to taking a good picture than “pointing and shooting,” as they say and since the summer is an optimal time for getting together with friends in a variety of settings I am going to share with you the secret to taking the perfect picture. So, say goodbye to boring poorly lit photos and say hello to one hell of a summer slideshow.
Many online photo guides say that the key to taking a captivating photograph, that is a photograph that will trigger strong memory and captivate a foreign audience is one that really conveys your enthusiasm for the subject, be it a person, landscape or inanimate object.
Have fun with your camera
Take pictures not for the sake of taking them, but rather because you are excited to capture the moment. Candid photos are usually the best for capturing honest emotions. When photo subjects are arranged, they may become stiff or lose the emotion that you, the photographer, are intending to preserve.
When photo subjects are asked to smile or say the ever clichéd word “cheese,” often times posed persons will automatically move into a rehearsed, fake, pose that can cause many of your pictures to appear very similar. To avoid this take photos as events are unfolding, surprise your photo subjects. Other important tips for great pictures include: move around to snap pictures. Don’t be afraid to take pictures from different distances, but also from different levels, shoot your subject against a plain background; know the range of your zoom and multiple modes of your camera; keep your eye on the light and don’t forget to include yourself in a few of the photos.
Move around
I like to think of picture taking like treasure hunting, it sounds quite juvenile I know, but for every great picture you take, there are probably also a handful of mediocre photographs, so scavenge around and take more pictures than you think you’ll need. This way, you won’t feel as disappointed about a few blurry shots in the mix. The more you move around when taking pictures also means the more variety you will have in the finished product.
Kodak.com suggests not only capturing subjects from different ranges (close up or far away), but also from a variety of different angles. They also encourage new photographers to be creative, that is, alternate between horizontal and vertical landscapes, move in close enough to capture small detailing that you find interesting or position your subject so that they aren’t always perfectly centered in the photograph. Many bar-going photographers may try this technique rather unintentionally after they’ve had a few drinks and start to lose their footing. Should this drunken state occur while picture taking, cite all horribly angled, off-center photos, as “artistic ventures” and call it a day.
Shoot your subject against a plain background
 While sometimes a busy background can’t be helped, shooting your subject, be it a person, animal or inanimate object against a plain background will enhance the energy of your photograph. Many photographers recommend shooting subjects against a plain background because plain backgrounds emphasize the photo’s subject, whereas busy backgrounds can distract an audience and ultimately take away from the picture. This means while out in big groups you might need to shoot around cluttered bars and that guy you don’t know that always randomly jumps into the photo at the last second. If these things can’t be avoided, there’s always Photoshop.
Know the range and multiple functions of your camera
If you’ve spent a bundle on a camera, go the extra mile and take the time to read through the guidebook that is included. Know how far the zoom reaches so that you can move in closer to your subject accordingly. Similarly, become familiar with the specialty functions of your camera such as the video option or sports option. Switching between modes may make the difference between a good picture and a great picture. When buying a new camera always ask the retailer if they give free tutorials, for example camera retailers such as Black’s offer a one hour, free, one-on-one tutorial with the purchase of every new camera.
Keep your eye on the light
When shooting photos outdoors it is always important to consider your light source. While many photographers recommend natural light as the best light to use in photographs, this light changes throughout the day. In their tutorial “how to take good photographs,” the BBC proposes that the best times to take photographs outdoors are early morning and in the evening, as the light during both times allows for shadowing or “side lighting” and can be used to create “interesting visual effects.”
Include yourself in the photos
Knowing how to include yourself in a photo might be just as important as taking a good one of someone else and it takes some practice. Have you ever wondered how some of your friends always look great in photos and you always look, well, not so great? It might be how you are posing yourself. First: don’t slouch. Slouching can create the illusion of bulk and no one wants to look fat. Stand up straight and slide one leg out farther than the other. By positioning one leg in front of the other you will create a longer line for your body and minimize your hips and thighs. Second: keep your chin down and turn your head slightly to eliminate the look of the dreaded double chin. Third: keep you arms away from your body to avoid making them appear thicker. Last: practice. Practice in front of the mirror, this will help you achieve flattering photos.
|
