Whether you have a small compact camera or a pro quality camera, you should always follow a few simple tips to increase your chances of capturing memorable pictures of your children.
The first step you need to take to snap a great pic is to get down to your child’s level. As adults, we forget how big everything can be to a young child. Bend down to your kid’s level to take the picture. Keep the shot at eye level and you will be able to capture that fantastic smile of your little bundle of joy!
Next, use plain backgrounds whenever possible. Everyone takes pictures of their children at their birthday party or sporting event. How many of those images are really all that memorable in your pile of digital photos? Not too many? Usually these photographs are jammed full of background clutter; things that take the eye away from the most important aspect of the shot: your child! Watch for trees, poles or other kids sprouting from your child's head before you snap the pic. Where possible, use a single colored plain background to really bring out the emphasis of your subject in the picture.
Another great thing to do is to be the director of the picture! Never line up your children like a group of tourists waiting for the next bus… Take a minute to rearrange your subjects or try another viewpoint! Stand on a chair, or get down on the ground for a worm's eye view. Bring the subjects together, add a prop (don't forget to watch your background!). Have fun with the shot! Photography is about capturing the energy of the moment and not just the bodies in the frame.
While you are thinking about how to rearrange your subject, also keep in mind that photos that are all in the centre of the frame get old real fast. Try placing the action according to the rule of thirds. Image a tic-tac-toe grid in your view finder. Place the subject at one of the intersections of the lines. You will be amazed at how this simple technique will bring your picture to life. One thing that most people do not pay attention to while they take a picture is the light. Great light makes a great picture. Watch for awkward shadows falling on the subject and avoid overhead sunlight. Harsh light makes for a harsh picture. For people pictures, choose cloudy days to soften the light.
How many pictures have you taken that have come out blurry? Usually blurry photography comes from two things: camera shake or incorrect focus. Camera shake is where the shutter speed was too slow and it picks up the movement of either the subject or the natural shake in your hand. Use a tripod. Now you don't have to break the bank when it comes to purchasing a tripod - even using a stack of books or a tabletop is fine. You just want to try and get the camera on a solid surface.
Now, how do you focus correctly? Most automatic cameras have a centre point that you need to focus on the subject. Try to lightly push on the camera shutter button so that it gets the focus. Then hold the button, and then reposition and compose the shot. That way, the camera will keep your focus while you are looking for the right shot. When the shot is ready, push the shutter button all the way and smile at your work!
These are just a few simple tips. Many more are out there to be discovered. Just keep your camera handy and ready to shoot that memory that will happen in a flash!|
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