You don’t have to drop a bundle to buy a fancy digital camera with a built-in red-eye reduction feature in order to eliminate demonic-looking photos. If your camera doesn’t come with red-eye reduction capabilities, then follow these tips to avoid the unattractive red glow that is caused when a camera’s flash reflects off of a person’s retina:
Lighting: One of the best ways to reduce red-eye is to flood your shooting area with as much natural light as possible. By doing so, you can reduce the need to employ your camera’s flash. Shooting outdoors is preferable; just remember to avoid direct sunlight. If you are shooting indoors, then open windows and doors. If the scene is still too dark, turn on strategically placed lamps to fill-in dark areas. Then, try to place your subject in an area of the room that features the best combination of sunlight and artificial light.
Diffusers: You can buy a diffuser or save money and make one yourself. Simply place a piece of tissue or opaque plastic over your camera’s flash. However, if you opt for this method, make sure you don’t accidentally shoot the diffusing material when it falls in front of the camera’s lens.
ISO settings: By manipulating your camera’s ISO setting, you may be able to get a decent picture without using the flash. Try increasing the ISO setting and reducing the shutter speed a bit. Note: This method requires some experimentation to get just right. Once you get the hang of it, however, you will be able to reduce red-eye without a diffuser.
Angles: Consider experimenting with new angles. By changing your position you reduce the chance of your flash directly hitting your subject’s eyes and creating that devilish effect. Shoot from the side or from slightly above or below. A minor shift in position can do wonders in avoiding red-eye.
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