How to Take Great Photos and Body Shots

Mother's snap photos of their children at the park and in the pool; friends lean in when a camera appears to capture them at a sporting event. The opportunity to photograph people is everywhere and there are some tips to keep in mind when you're looking for great body shots.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Tell a standing model to sit down and lean to either side to add interest to the shot. Get down to your model's eye level to prevent body distortion. Have her lie down for variety.

2. Capture candid shots of people as they go about their daily lives. Some of the best photographs are those where the subject didn't know a photographer was lurking. Remember to get his written permission, however, if you intend to make the photograph public.

3. Photograph action shots by following the body's natural movement. Look for opportunities in every situation. Fans cheering at a sports game or displaying dissatisfaction over a referee's call make great action shots.

4. Look for the reaction. Capture a person's real response to a situation by waiting patently and discretely. Shoot the child's expression as he waits for his ice cream cone and catch his first lick.

5. Watch people as they interact with animals and the world around them. Capture children feeding the baby lambs at the petting zoo or the man pretending his dog isn't relieving himself on the neighbor's fence.

6. Tell a story with body shots. Assess the scene before you take the photograph. Consider the elements that make the photo special and include those.

7. Move to get a better angle. When you spot someone in a situation you just know you must shoot, try the photo from a couple of different angles.