Capturing life’s special moments, in a meaningful way, is possible for anyone who goes out of their way to learn the nuances of photography. Though anyone can purchase a camera, not every person who holds one, will truly master it. Mastering the art of photography is a process that is learned and anyone who seeks out information can become a great photographer. Follow these tips to achieve your maximum potential behind the lens of your camera.
Be selective when taking your photos. Find exactly what you want in that photo, and remove anything else from the shot. If you’re trying to take a picture of a flower, you don’t want a bunch of other flowers or trees in the shot. Get as close and focused on the subject as possible to get the best possible photo.
To create photographic images that resemble paintings, try having your photos printed onto matte or semi-gloss papers, then painting them by hand with photographic oils or pastels. These items can be picked up at most art supply stores and many camera shops. The most popular paints are made by Marshall’s and are created specifically for use on photographs.
Select a subject and focus on it. Point your camera towards this subject or object and use the auto focus feature if necessary. If you do not do this, your picture will look blurry. Play with conventions and select an unusual point of focus if you want original pictures.
If you know that you have a really important shoot the next day, make sure that you get ample rest. Yes, a lack of sleep will directly result in loss of judgment, which will hurt the quality of the shots that you take. Get at least eight hours of rest the night before a photo shoot.
Be creative and unique with your subjects. You don’t want to take the same old photo every other photographer has done. Look for unique shots that people haven’t seen before. Choose interesting subjects that aren’t going to bore anyone who sees them. If you want to make a name for yourself, this is essential.
Be sure your photo has a solid focal point. Without a good focal point your photographs will end up looking empty, leaving the eye with nowhere to rest. Your viewers will be more appreciative of a photo that has a clear focus, even if you are shooting a landscape or other wide setting.
Although it may seem obvious, but know how to handle your camera and what happens when you press the buttons on it. Understand what happens when the shutter button is pressed and the timing of the shutter. It really depends on personal preference and there is no right or wrong way, but some things do not vary like keeping the camera perfectly still while taking a photo.
Now that you have been enlightened by these simple photographic tips, grab your camera and get out there. That “magic moment” is just a click away, and the world won’t stop spinning. So let your imagination run free, then capture the results for posterity. Only you can tell the photographic story that unfolds from your own unique point of view.