How to Take Good Candid Photographs

Perhaps the most interesting photos are the candid variety, when the subject doesn't know he or she is being photographed.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• SLR Camera
• Digital Cameras
• Disposable Cameras
• Film
• Point-and-shoot Cameras

1. Keep your camera at the ready, loaded with film and fresh batteries for the flash.

2. Allow the subject to be busy or in action.

3. Get to your subject. For candid shots, this can be achieved by using a long lens. A 90mm lens will allow you to stand several yards away from the subject, so he or she is unaware of your presence.

4. Keep visual distractions away from the edges of what will be the final picture.

5. Keep good visual elements inside the picture. Bright shapes or objects too near the edges of the frame will pull the viewer's eye away from the subject.

6. Avoid clutter in the picture. Reframe the shot by moving the subject left or right in the viewfinder. If the background continues to be too cluttered, use a wide aperture. Using a wide aperture in the camera's aperture priority mode can throw the background out of focus so that the eye concentrates on the subject.

7. Place the subject off-center.

8. Avoid shooting into bright lights or the sun.

9. Hold the camera still as you take the picture. Brace your elbows against your body to minimize movement, or use a tripod.

[Saimon]

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on 11/22/2005 This works in the UK (not sure about elsewhere). To take candid pictures on crowded streets, wear a bright yellow tabard (like the workmen wear) and a hard hat. Use a tripod as well, if you like. As long as you have a decent camera and look like you are working, everyone will totally ignore you, thinking you work for the council.

on 11/22/2005 Use the porch steps to arrange a group of kids and grown-ups, with people seated so that faces are clustered in a pleasing arrangement. Get couples to cuddle up and kids to squeeze in, since the closer they are, the closer you can get. This makes for a better picture!

on 11/22/2005 Don't show other people the pictures or they might get embarrassed.

on 11/22/2005 Use a wide-angle lens and get in close. A 24 mm lens on a 35 mm camera is ideal. Set focus just under infinity at f56 with 200 ISO film and shoot from the hip. Don't let subjects become aware of the camera.