Pictures don't take themselves. We take pictures in order to preserve memories. And who wants to keep a memory of a bad shot in their photo album?
No one, right? You've probably heard many of the basic rules about lighting, camera settings, and proper equipment.
Cameras can take the pictures of flowers but they won't find the flowers for you. Nor will they see the perfect background, position, or combination of colors. Put any camera in the hand of a photographer with the right mind set and you have an unbeatable team.
As the photographer, you have to know how to take good pictures of people. If you need a little help with that, here are some tips to improve your shots.
1) Find the best angle.
People have different angles. Sometimes, one person looks better from the left or from the right. That person may not know it himself/herself, so it's up to you to determine the best angle for the picture.
It's not only about left and right though. It's also about how high or low you angle your camera. For example, positioning yourself too low will only catch the unflattering view of say... your cousin Leah's nostrils and your sister Tammy's double chin. Do that and you'll never be allowed to touch the camera again.
2) Catch candid moments.
One way on how to take good pictures of people is by catching them during candid moments. Sometimes, people have a hard time smiling naturally in front of the camera. The photo then becomes stiff and boring.
However, by catching them mid-laugh or mid-talk, you'll have a better chance of scoring beautiful images. Just be sure to time the moment right because candid moments can also make for unflattering pictures.
3) Try different positions.
Old-school photographers like to take pictures of people by lining them up side by side. While there's nothing really wrong with such a composition, don't you think that that's a little too boring?
If you want to take good pictures of people, I suggest trying out different positions. Group them together like a bunch of flowers and take their picture from above so their faces are the ones in focus. Be as fun and as creative as the situation allows you to.
Everything Else in Your Bag is a Prop.
I have to admit that having the right equipment and good lighting does come in handy. You might consider adding these few props to your bag of tricks:
• Tri-pods - Sometimes your camera will show a little hand when you are ready to shoot a picture. That means either you are shaking or the settings are very sensitive to movement. This is when a tripod comes in handy. Or use a part of your body to steady your camera on those occasions when you left with only your camera.
• Good Lighting - Okay, this isn't actually a piece of equipment I know. But there are a few great times for taking pictures. Early morning and evening can give you lighting that photographers call the "sweet spot". Overcast days are also good for bringing out the best colors. And my favorite time to capture nature with my camera is right after a rain shower.
• Filters - It has been said that sunshine can be your worst enemy when it comes to picture taking. That's where inexpensive filters come in handy.
• Batteries - It's always good to carry a few extra batteries with you. It's no fun when you see that message "replace batteries" as your camera shuts down and you don't have new ones with you.
• Memory Card - And finally make sure you have enough memory to take all the pictures that will present themselves to you.
Frankly, it's easy to learn how to take good pictures of people, objects and nature. You don't have to buy the latest camera model to come up with fantastic photos. All it takes is a little bit of ingenuity and an understanding of the overall composition of the photo.
Just remember; if you leave the house with nothing but your camera and your love of nature, you will be sure to find the perfect pictures waiting for you.
