Photography : Tips For Better Pictures

Some people think that great picture requires an expensive camera, but good technique is more important than expensive equipment. If you are unhappy with the quality of your photos, then you might have to look at some of the basics and make sure that you are using your camera as effectively as possible.

Here are a few tips and tricks to take a better picture.


Move In Closer

Each time you spot a subject, snap a shot and then move in closer for a better shot. Having your subject almost fill the frame helps your viewer understand and appreciate your photo.

Also, details are often more interesting than an overall view.
Keep moving in closer until you are sure the photo will successfully represent your subject.



The subject is too far away.



Perfect! When you move in closer!

Focus On Your Subject 

Practice shooting with different apertures (a space through which light passes in an optical or photographic instrument, especially the variable opening by which light enters a camera) and monitor the results afterwards to learn how depth-of-field affects your photo.

You will find that a smaller depth-of-field focuses all the attention upon your subject. This is great for taking a picture of your cat, your friend, or your crush - subjects stand out against a blurry background.

Likewise, you will find that a greater depth-of-field will make everything from here to eternity appear in focus. This will help make those landscapes fascinating and lovely.

 You will also want to become familiar with the way your camera focuses. If it is a simple point and shoot camera, you will likely indicate which part of the picture to focus on by following these steps:

1. Aim so the object you want in sharp focus is in the center of the viewfinder.
2. Press the shutter button down half-way and hold it.
3. Move your camera until you have the composition you like best.
4. Press the button down the rest of the way to take the picture.

Be Quick

If it is at all possible that your subject may move, bolt, fly away, stop smiling, or just get tired of waiting for you to take the picture, shoot once right away.

Practice getting quicker and quicker to the draw.

Do not worry about taking too many pictures and do not wait until you're absolutely certain all the knobs and buttons are in their correct position.

As the motto of one of BetterPhoto old t-shirts states, "Shoot First, Ask Questions Later."

There you have it - basic but helpful, I hope. Now go out there, make some great shots, learn from the failures, and have fun.


May Your Photographic Path Be A Prosperous and Gratifying Adventure!