You’ve done your research, found the perfect camera, learned most of its features and discovered what options are available to share your images with friends and family. Now, it’s time to get out there and put your digital camera to the test.
Regardless of your skill level, it’s important to know that you have the ability to take quality photos. All it takes is a little (in some cases a lot) of practice. And, with a digital camera you never have to worry that your test shots are “wasting film” or that you will run out of space.
The next several blogs in this series about digital photography will be dedicated to the art of shooting. With the holidays just around the corner, your camera will serve as an important tool to preserve those special family moments that only come around once a year.
Before we discuss what and how you should be shooting, let’s talk about preparation. Prior to recording any family function you want to be sure you have spare batteries and memory cards. Spare batteries are self-explanatory. As for the media card, make sure your card has enough capacity to accommodate the number of pictures you plan to take at your given event. (To see if your current memory card is satisfactory click here.)
FIGURING OUT YOUR FLASH
Most quality digital cameras come equipped with auto flash; however, there are still a few tips you should keep in mind when shooting at a low-light function:
Lighting. Remember, the quality and direction of light will dramatically impact the way your photo turns out. If you are shooting outdoors in the direct sunlight you’ll want to use your flash to fill in the shadows. I would recommend finding a shady area that doesn’t have pockets where sunlight streams in. If you keep your lighting uniform your subject will appear more flattering.
Flash Button. Most film cameras have a pop-up flash feature that can’t be controlled by the photographer. The flash works according to the light conditions. However, with most digital cameras you can control the flash with the flash button that is usually located on the back of the camera and is identified by a small lightning-bolt icon. The flash function is set once you press the icon. I would highly recommend taking two pictures of the same subject, one using the flash, one without, and see which turns out better.
Stand Closer. Don’t stand too far away from your subject when you are employing your flash. Most standard digital cameras have a flash that extends about 10 feet (give or take a few feet—it’s a good idea to check your camera’s manual to get the exact number); so the flash is virtually ineffective if your subject is further away than 10 feet. It’s better if you stand about five to six feet from your subject and use your zoom to frame the subject.
Eliminating Red Eye. Red eye is caused when the light from the flash hits a subject’s eyes and reflects back into the lens. It’s a good idea to use the red-eye reduction feature when you take pictures of people in low light. (Most cameras come equipped with a red eye reduction function, again, check your camera’s manual for specific instructions.) You can reduce red eye by turning off the flash and turning on more lights in a room your subject is sitting in. Also, keep in mind most computer programs allow you to edit out the red eye, while others take out the red automatically, so don’t fret if your child looks like a little devil in one of your shots.
Related Articles:
Digital Photography 101: Photo Sharing
Digital Photography 101: Printing Footnotes
Digital Photography 101: More Printing Options
Digital Photography 101: Printing Your Pictures
Digital Photography 101: Picking The Perfect Camera
Digital Photography 101: Getting To Know Your Camera
Digital Photography 101: An Introduction
Getting Digital Pictures To Friends And Family FAST!