Some Quick Photography Tips

Modern digital cameras, even the simple point-and-shoot cameras, are now commonly faster than anything previously offered and include advanced image stabilization which helps reduce image or subject blur during action shots.  They also include advanced features such as recognition for multiple faces to keep each in focus. Another advanced feature is the ability for some cameras to recognize a smile and take a shot as soon as the subject smiles. However, remember that you get what you pay for. Cheap cameras won't include such technology, or it may not be implemented as well.

Because digital technology has improved so much, even if you do not have a computer, you can print out digital photos at many camera shops, photo stores, print shops and even many department stores. You can even buy a photo printer or an all-in-one printer/scanner/copier unit that requires no PC to print your photography. The advantage of having a PC is to further manipluate your photos in a program such as Adobe Photoshop, which requires some knowledge and skill.

One of the most important tools that a professional photographer uses is lighting. You can avoid many problems by providing light that will blanket a subject. Be sure that you are waiting for clouds to pass when outdoors, if possible. Indoors, turn on or set up and provide as much lighting as possible. You may however, want to avoid using a flash if you have a low-light setting on a digital camera to prevent the red-eye effect of reflected light from inside a person's pupil. This will use infrared light that the camera can use to avoid this effect.

Another important tool in a professional photographer's arsenal is the tripod. Be sure to get one that is comfortable for you to use, as most tripods are pathetically small and are just not meant for taller people. That can make taking good steady shots back breaking work, which is ridiculous. A tripod should be at least as tall as your eye level.  Ideally, it will be able to expand to a height that is just as tall as you are for the largest variety of shooting opportunities.

Just as tripods are a great tool to steady well framed photographs taken from a single stable base, monopods are great tools in helping steady photographers and videographers that are always on the move, such as at sporting events. Some tripods (such as the heavy duty SunPak PlatimumPlus Ultra 7500TM) come equipped with a quickly accessible monopod.

Remember that taking photos is an art, not just the underlying science of photographic imagery. Allow yourself the ability to experiment so that you can learn from any failures you may encounter.

You can also learn a great deal by studying composition. Even the composition techniques of the great masters of painting, drawing and printmaking.

To discuss professional Photoshop techniques, tips & artistry, please join us at Photoshop Pros. It's a great way to get expert help with Photoshop for those who want to take their photographic images to the next level and beyond (you need not be an expert yourself). It is a closed group, so a membership request will be required with a personal message that indicates why you would like to join. We do this to thwart the spammers from joining the group.

Author's Resource Block:
This article is an original composition written by Doug Peters.
Doug Peters is an artist, illustrator, logo/graphic/web designer and the proprietor of Symbiotic Design.
Copyright 2009 Douglas Peters.