1
Compose in Thirds
To use the rule of thirds, imagine four lines, two
lying horizontally across the image and two vertical creating nine even
squares. Some images will look best with the focal point in the center square,
but placing the subject off center will often create a more aesthetically
composed photograph. When a photograph is composed using the rule of thirds the
eyes will wander the frame. A picture composed by the rule of thirds is more
interesting and pleasing to the eye.
2
Avoid Camera Shake
Camera shake or blur is something that can plague
any photographer and here are some ways to avoid it. First, you need to learn
how to hold your camera properly; use both hands, one around the body and one
around the lens and hold the camera close to your body for support. Also make
sure you are using a shutter speed that matches the lens focal length. So if
you’re using a 100mm lens, then your shutter speed should be no lower than
1/100th of a second. Use a tripod or monopod whenever possible. In lieu of
this, use a tree or a wall to stabilize the camera.
3
The Sunny 16 Rule
The idea with the Sunny 16 rule is that we can use
it to predict how to meter our camera on a sunny outdoor day. So when in that
situation, choose an aperture of f/16 and 1/100th of a second shutter speed
(provided you are using ISO 100). You should have a sharp image that is neither
under or over exposed. This rule is useful if you don’t have a functioning
light meter or if your camera doesn’t have an LCD screen to review the image.
4
Use a Polarizing Filter
If you can only buy one filter for your lens, make
it a polarizer. This filter helps reduce reflections from water as well as
metal and glass; it improves the colors of the sky and foliage, and it will
protect your lens too. There’s no reason why you can’t leave it on for all of
your photography. The recommended kind of polarizer is circular because these
allow your camera to use TTL (through the lens) metering (i.e. Auto exposure).
5
Create a Sense of Depth
When photographing landscapes it really helps to
create a sense of depth, in other words, make the viewer feel like they are
there. Use a wide-angle lens for a panoramic view and a small aperture of f/16
or smaller to keep the foreground and background sharp. Placing an object or
person in the foreground helps give a sense of scale and emphasizes how far
away the distance is. Use a tripod if possible, as a small aperture usually
requires a slower shutter speed.
6
Use Simple Backgrounds
The simple approach is usually the best in digital
photography, and you have to decide what needs to be in the shot, while not
including anything that is a distraction. If possible, choose a plain
background – in other words, neutral colors and simple patterns. You want the
eye to be drawn to the focal point of the image rather than a patch of color or
an odd building in the background. This is vital in a shot where the model is
placed off center.
7
Don't Use Flash Indoors
Flash can look harsh and unnatural especially for indoor
portraits. Therefore, there are various ways you can take an image indoors
without resorting to flash. First, push the ISO up – usually ISO 800 to 1600
will make a big difference for the shutter speed you can choose. Use the widest
aperture possible – this way more light will reach the sensor and you will have
a nice blurred background. Using a tripod or an I.S. (Image Stabilization) lens
is also a great way to avoid blur.
8
Choose the Right ISO
The ISO setting determines how sensitive your
camera is to light and also how fine the grain of your image. The ISO we choose
depends on the situation – when it’s dark we need to push the ISO up to a
higher number, say anything from 400 – 3200 as this will make the camera more
sensitive to light and then we can avoid blurring. On sunny days we can choose
ISO 100 or the Auto setting as we have more light to work with.
9
Pan to Create Motion
If you want to capture a subject in motion, then
use the panning technique. To do this, choose a shutter speed around two steps
lower than necessary – so for 1/250, we’d choose 1/60. Keep your camera on the
subject with your finger half way down on the shutter to lock the focus and
when ready, take the photo, remembering to follow them as they move. Use a
tripod or monopod if possible to avoid camera shake and get clear movement
lines.
10
Experiment with Shutter Speed
Don’t be afraid to play with the shutter speed to
create some interesting effects. When taking a night time shot, use a tripod
and try shooting with the shutter speed set at 4 seconds. You will see that the
movement of the object is captured along with some light trails. If you choose
a faster shutter speed of say 1/250th of a second, the trails will not be as
long or bright; instead you will freeze the action. This technique works well
if you are using a tripod and if you are photographing a moving object.
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