Saturday, March 6, 2010

5 Tips For the Non-Photographer Photographer

There is a lot you can do to fake a great picture. If you have the eye of a photographer it is easier than if you don’t, but here are a few pointers for the passionately inclined.

1. A good Camera – If you have the money, a good camera is one that can make all the difference. Some of my favorite are the Canon D series and Nikon D series. You are a better photographer with a tool like this in your belt. If you don’t have a camera like this, then you have to rely more on your eye to get the picture that you want. It is possible, but you have to love the cameras that have a mind of their own.

2. Be Creative – The stand alone tripod shots are ok, but don’t really cut it when you are trying to get amazing shots. Take the camera in hand, take weird angle shots of the people, or scenery in question and you’ll be happier with your final product. The best shots I have taken, are when the people are candid and unaware, and when I did something or took something I didnt even mean to.

3. Lighting – The most important part of taking a picture is the lighting. If you dont have good lighting, the picture won’t look good. If you have too much lighting the image will get saturated and washed out. Where is the median? In your eye. Find a place with subtle tones of light. The more natural the better. Find areas with dimmed, muted light for cool shadows and creative shots. speaking of shadows… they can ruin a picture. Look for shadows everywhere. If there is a shadow of you in the picture, congratulations. You just committed a photographer felony.

4. Placement – Taking a shot off to the side or with a lot of white space, can be cool. But the best shots (especially if you are being hired to take them) are the ones that strategically place the elements well. Think of a sunset without the sun. It can be good, in the right setting, but one that is taken with the beaming rays of the sun flying away from the lens can be epic.

5. People – I like to take pictures of pretty boxes, and nicely decorated room. However, shots of wedding pictures and candid pictures with people in it, make the photo ten times better. Homework: Aim your lens at a beautiful scenery or room, or sanctuary, then watch as nature interacts with it. People, animals, etc… You will be amazed at the depth and perception it ads to your photo.

I hope a few of these tips help you on your quest to become a great photographer. I am not an architect with the lens, but like you, love taking photos and being in them. Practice on family and friends and you will become more confident in your picture taking. Good Luck and keep on clicking.

Brooke is an amateur Seattle wedding photographer and loves wedding photography and giving people information about it.

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