subject: Tips For Capturing Better Pictures [print this page] Have you ever thought of improving your photography skills in order to capture better pictures? In all honestly, all it entails is a little addition to your knowledge and experience. Here are a few tips on how you can enhance your skills and start taking photographs like you never before:
Maintain eye contact.
As often as possible, you should maintain direct eye contact with your subject in order to produce results that are as captivating in a photograph as it is in reality. You should position your camera at your subject's eye level to capture the general beauty of your focus. However, it is important to note that this is guideline does not apply to your subjects at all times. You may experiment on different styles, but you should try to place your camera at an eye level angle if at all possible.
Use a less distracting background.
Generally, a plain background clearly displays your subject in a photograph. Through your camera viewfinder, try to analyze your subject and the surrounding elements, and ensure that there are no distracting components involved in your shot.
Be mindful of your flash's reach.
It is advisable to use a flash when you are taking photographs outdoors. The sun's brightness can significantly affect your subject's composition and the quality of your image, predominantly the facial shadows. When using a flash, you should always be mindful of its range, because if you attempt to take a shot beyond the maximum range of your flash, the resulting photo will be too dark.
More often than not, the maximum flash range is 12-15 feet away from your subject. To ensure a quality photograph, stay within 10 feet away from your subject.
Move closer to your subject.
The general rule in capturing better pictures is to move closer to your subject, approximately three to five feet away if you plan to highlight a part of your subject. If at all possible, fill the picture area with your desired subject and incorporate any detail that would seem necessary.
Create your own concept.
To further improve your skills as a photographer, you need to challenge yourself to be more creative and conceptual when it comes to the composition of your shots. Always think out of the box, and direct your subject/s in an imaginative and unique manner. Try to be a photographer and concept director at the same time, and do not be afraid to take risks and explore ideas that you have not used before.
