How to Take Better Photos
With advances in technology, it is easier than ever to take better photos; yet, we need the right equipment and a little knowledge to make the most of our digital memories. Whether you're a beginner at taking photos or are rediscovering cameras in the digital age, keep a few basics in mind for the best shots.
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Instructions
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1
Buy a camera that is adequate for the job but not too advanced for your needs. If you choose a sophisticated digital camera with a steep learning curve, its many bells and whistles will simply get in the way. Look for essential features like autofocus. Read independent reviews for name brand cameras in your price range.
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2
Learn about your camera by reading the manual and exploring the manufacturer website. An often overlooked way to take better photos is to understand the full potential of your camera. If your digital camera has modes for certain photo conditions such as low light or action shots, pay particular attention to these settings.
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3
Steady your shots. The value of a tripod cannot be overemphasized. Inexpensive, lightweight tripods are widely available. Another way to take better photos, without blur, is to steady against a wall, hold your elbow with the opposite hand; breathe in and hold your breath while you shoot.
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4
Focus on good lighting to take better photos. Lighting is one area worth investigating. Some basics include lighting the subject from behind the camera when possible and avoiding using a flash when conditions warrant. For smaller objects, purchase or learn how to make a do-it-yourself portable lighting studio for professional-looking results.
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Avoid digital zoom as this degrades photo quality. When purchasing a camera, aim for the best optical zoom level you can afford.
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Practice. Take photos of stationary and moving objects under varying light conditions. This points out areas you could use a little work in before an important photo opportunity comes up.
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Use photo-enhancing software to improve your photos. Some of the easier applications include those that are packaged with the cameras, as well as Photoshop Elements and the less expensive Photobot.
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Visit photography help websites for information on ISO speed, aperture, exposure and manual focus to increase your chances of producing a better photograph.
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Tips & Warnings
Some SLR-like cameras provide the quality of some lower end professional cameras and cost little more than a good point-and-shoot.
The highest mega pixel count is not as important as the lens and other features. For example, 6 mega pixels is sufficient for non-commercial work.
References
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Comments
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jpwhickson
Feb 12, 2008
Great tips. -
D Porter Porter
Jan 31, 2008
I was aiming for some of the less complicated alteratives for everyday users Richard, but yes, thanks for mentioning this.
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kjv4thee
Jan 17, 2008
Step four is most important in taking good pictures. Thanks for a good article.
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ChantelAlise
Jan 15, 2008
Good tips, my friend!
