Mistakes happen. This is life. However, many errors that are made in photography, can actually be corrected by paying more attention. Here are four common photography errors and how to fix them.
Partial Obstruction
Admittedly, I’ve done it and I’m positive so have you. With camera straps dangling, and hair blowing in the wind, it sure doesn’t take much these days. Have you ever gotten your finger in the way? Yes, me too. The solution? Check your lens each time you are going to use your camera. Carry a soft camera cloth with you to wipe the lens frequently while you are using it. Secure long hair into a ponytail or put it under a hat. Be sure camera cords are out of the way.
Sloppy Photographer
Are you really looking through the viewfinder and seeing everything? Do you often upload your picture (or get a pack of pictures back from the film developer), only to find out that you have a photograph with a head cut off, or something growing out of someones head and other than that, it might just have been the best picture in the bunch? The only way to avoid this error, is to pay attention. Look through the view finder a lot and see what is around. Being more aware, can make a huge difference.
Back lighting
This happened to me just recently. I was trying to grab a picture at my daugther’s riding lesson. The sun was shining through the windows and I couldn’t get a shot to save my life. Usually this happens because of where the light is placed when you are taking the photograph, causing shadows on the subject or a darkened face. Try moving into the shade and position the subject so the light is on them. You can also zoom in on the subject or use the fill flash to help combat back lighting problems.
Red Eye/Pet Eye
You cannot avoid red eye or pet eye every time. However with new camera technology, most of them come with a red eye reduction setting. The extra flash closes the pupil for a moment to grab the photograph without the red eye. While sometimes, there is just no way to keep it from happening, red eye and pet eye can be controlled by turning on lights or adjusting your subjects. If you wind up with photos that are full of red eye, either use a red eye pen or a computer software program that can help remove it.
Please be sure and see the previous article Three Common Errors Photographers Make and the next article The Last of the Common Photography Errors.
For more great photography tips, visit the photography blog. Don’t forget, we are always available to answer questions and to help you with any photography problems you might have.