Often it is the simple things which make the difference. Photography is no exception. Overlooking the basics can ruin an otherwise great shot. So here are a few easy steps you can take which will help you to take better photographs.
- Before you press the shutter check the viewfinder. Sounds obvious I know, but you would be surprised at the number of times you can look at a photography you have taken and think, “Oh, I didn’t notice that in the background”. Check that everything you want is in the shot, and just as important, nothing is in there that you don’t want. Look around the edges to make sure nothing unwanted in intruding. Check that you are not chopping off anything that you want to be in there. Check that the horizon is level and that verticals are upright. You don’t want anything leaning which isn’t meant to!
- Try to be imaginative with angles. Different angles can be more interesting than those straight on shots. Get up higher or lower. Stand on a chair, kneel or even lie down. Get that unusual angle to make your shot different.
- If you are photographing a person it is often good to get in close. These can be more intimate and interesting. It can also cut out unwanted background clutter and distractions. If your camera has a zoom lens, then use it. Beware the dreaded tree growing out of someone’s head!
- Use doorways or overhanging branches as natural framing devices. These help to emphasize your subject and give a more pleasing composition.
- When photographing a scenic view try to place something in the foreground to give a sense of scale and depth. This is a good technique for leading the eye into the photograph.
- Use the rule of thirds to compose your shot. Imagine the scene divided into thirds, both vertically and horizontally, and place the horizon and main subjects on the thirds. This gives a balanced composition.
By using some basic checks you will greatly improve your photography and send fewer images to the trash bin! Better photographs will be more rewarding, so have fun.
You can find more tips, tricks and techniques for getting better photographs at http://digitalphotographytipsandtricks.blogspot.com
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