5 Photography Tips for the Rest of Us

Trish sent me a link to some tips for photographing people, and while most of the 10 tips provided were great, some were really only meant for people with fancy DSLRs (in my mind all DSLRs are fancy). I decided someone ought to write a list of photography tips for the everyday traveller. Here they are:

1. Never take a picture of someone or something with the sun in the background unless you want a picture of a silhouette. Silhouette shots can be very pretty, but not ideal if you want a picture of yourself.
2. If you have a digital point-and-shoot (ie a pocket camera) that cost more than $100, you have a force flash option. You might have to push a few buttons to change your settings from 'automatic' to 'manual' and then choose the option for flash, but it's there. It's sad but true that I've missed out on many potentially fabulous photos because I didn't bother reading my manual.
   
3. If you are taking pictures of someone in front of a snowy background, turn on the force flash option. The sunlight will reflect off the snow and make the subject look very dark in comparison if you don't.
   
4. Avoid zooming unless your camera has 'optical' zoom (as opposed to 'digital' zoom). Optical means it's actually zooming in on the subject without compromising the quality of the photo whereas digital zoom is the equivalent of zooming in on a digital picture on your computer and cropping out what you want.
5. Take more than one shot. In the age of digital cameras, it's ok to take a series of pictures and I'd recommend it if you're trying to get a group shot. Someone will inevitably be blinking in the first picture. You can always delete the extras later on. Or, if your super tech savvy, you can Photoshop two group photos together in the event that different people are blinking in two different group shots. This only works if everyone is standing very still inbetween shots though.
   

Bonus Tip Inspired by Trish (hee hee): If you're filming a video, don't flip your camera on its side as if you're taking a vertical photo. Your camera might not register that it's on its side and you'll end up with a sore neck trying to view your vids.

If you've got a DSLR or a hankering to get one, you might be interested in Craig Fergusons's website that has all sorts of tips for the travel photography enthusiast.

Anny Chih

Wildlife Photography Tips

1) Focus on the eyes. Getting the eyes in focus is key to capturing a photo of an animal. Since it's human nature to look at the eyes, an out of focus picture can have great appeal if the animal's eyes are in focus.

2) Use a telephoto lens. With a telephoto lens you guarantee the appearance of up-close photography without scaring or endangering the animals. Remember to keep your distance when appropriate.

3) Adjust your shutter speed. For great action shots you will want to shoot at 1/500 or faster, although if you want to create the illusion of movement, try shooting with a shutter speed of 1/4 to 1/8 and follow the subject with your camera.

4) Use your flash appropriately. During the day, using a flash can fill in shadows and provide more detail in your shot. However, be aware that some animals may be frightened by a flash.

5) Anticipate behaviour Taking home a great picture of the wildlife from your trip is important, but make sure you also take time to observe the animal's behaviour - not just from behind the lens! If you can anticipate what the animal will do, you could set up for and get that fantastic shot!

6) Don't limit your shots. With technology advancing so quickly, shooting with a digital camera is cheap! Before you travel, invest in some spare memory cards for your camera so that you can take as many photos as you need until you get the perfect shot.

(Tips are from Henry's camera store)

Cheers,
Meghan

Tips on Travel Photography

One of the best ways to remember a recent adventure, besides all the life long memories, is by taking pictures. Here are some tips to keep in mind when taking photos in a foreign country regarding customs, shooting techniques, etc . It's sure to make your friends and family envious of your recent travels.

1) Research the culture before hand and learn the appropriate customs and values.
2) Be considerate when taking photos and always ask the person beforehand. A smile can go a long way.
3) Fill your frame. Some of the best shots are close ups that tightly frame your subject.
4) Try to choose a background that is not too distracting.
5) Interact with the locals and engage them. Show them the pictures you have taken and tell them something about yourself.
6) If shooting a vast landscape, try to put a distant person in the frame to show the grandeur of the place.
7) Take photos of mundane things that might remind you of something special (your dinner plate, signs, market stalls, etc)
8) Make sure you bring extra memory cards, batteries, film, etc. Depending where you are it can be difficult or expensive to replace these items.

And most of all, don't spend your entire trip with your camera to your face. Trying to get that one perfect shot could mean missing everything else going on around you. Enjoy the moment and if it means no pictures, so be it. After all, you can also bring your memories home.

Happy picture taking,
BikeHike