In the past, the cost of photography forced people to plan out their pictures. Now, with digital cameras within the reach of every individual, people tend to become flash happy and take a picture of virtually anything. This has resulted in the lost of the art of good picture taking.
Sadly, even with dozens of pictures taken at an event, far too often not one of them is worth keeping, except as a reminder of the day. If you’re interested in Virginia photography or anywhere else and the above describes you, then learn these ten rules of taking a good picture, drawn from the Kodak website, then practice them before your next really important event.
Principle number one: get down to the subject’s level. Unless you desire a special effect, you will want to bend over or kneel down so that you capture the person’s face in a personal way. Don’t worry about being self-conscious about your method. The picture will last a lot longer than your damaged pride.
Rule number two: pay attention to the background. If it is cluttered, it will distract from the subject. The background can also give a false impression. A bright light above a child’s head may give the appearance of a halo that is inappropriate! Be sure the background focuses attention on the subject.
Principle number three: use a flash, even outdoors. Electronic cameras will measure the amount of light available and then will, according to the setting, choose whether or not to use the flash. When taking close subject pictures outdoors, force the camera to flash. In the sun, it will eliminate shadows on the face. In the shade, it will brighten the face.
Rule number four: move in close. Friends rarely want to see whole bodies; they want to see faces. If you can, move in as close as possible physically. Fill the picture with your subject. If you must use the zoom lens, remember that the flash still must light the entire area, not just what you see.
Rule number five: Consider taking the picture vertically. Every camera takes rectangular pictures. A single subject may be better when the camera is turned 90 degrees. You can always turn the picture in the computer, camera, or printer later.
The sixth principle: Check on what the camera is focusing. If the subject is off center, the camera may focus on the background instead of the subject. To avoid this, hold the shutter button half way down as you point the camera directly at your subject. This will lock the focus into place. Then move the camera so the subject is off center and finish pushing the button. What the camera can do is amazing, but it doesn’t always get it the way you want.
The seventh rule goes with number six: don’t always center your subject. Sometimes you say more with an off center subject. For example, you could send friends a picture of your new house taken straight on. Instead include the winding driveway on one side. This picture will be inviting people to visit. Be sure to follow rule six when doing this.
Rule number eight: know the strength of your flash. Most cameras have a flash range of ten feet or less. Thus, if you want the flash to light your subject, you have to be that close to it. And don’t forget, if the zoom is used, the subject may still be out of range, even though it looks close.
Principle number nine: check your light. Outdoor shots of people are best without direct sunlight. If this is unavoidable, then be sure to use the flash, as described previously. The long shadows of the early and late part of the day are best for scenic shots.
Rule number ten: take charge of planning your picture. Try a new angle, move your subjects, add some props. When possible, don’t just take the shot before you; arrange it as you want. Instead of just a record of the event, cause your viewers to feel the event as well.
Following these tips will have your pictures turn out far above the norm. However, some events require a professional. If you’re interested in, or near eastern Virginia, consider the services of Del Haven Studio, an accomplished Virginia Beach portrait photographer.
















