Welcome to Gaia! :: View User's Journal | Gaia Journals

Although most people think that taking a picture is just as simple as pointing and shooting, there really is an art form to it. Typically, your photos never look quite as good as you imagined they would. However, once you learn the proper techniques, it really is simple to take great pictures.

Get as close to your subject as you can. Getting closer lets you frame a subject, and prevents distracting backgrounds. It will also help you notice facial expressions, which are important factors for all portrait photographers. Smaller details are usually overlooked when the picture is taken from far away.

A dSLR is an essential tool if you seek to take more professional photographs or to seriously embrace photography itself. This type of digital camera will give you the most accurate view of your subject as you snap the picture. A full-frame DSLR gives the most comprehensive photos, and the largest image sensor.

If you want to become a serious photographer, you need a dSLR. The relatively new camera utilizes a single lens, yet allows you to preview the images right away. Preferably, you want a full-frame DSLR, which will provide the biggest image sensor and the most detailed photos.

Try to experiment with colors, angles and the different features of your camera. Your subject does not have to be original in order for your photo to be unique. A great picture will make an every day object look interesting and show your creativity off. Try different things to find a style that suits you.

If you keep your batteries charged at all times, you will not miss the picture of a lifetime. Digital cameras using an LCD screen require lots of power, so check the batteries before you need to take pictures. You could always carry a spare set of batteries with you so you can change them out, and you'll never miss a great photo.

When embarking on a journey, keep your camera handy from the very beginning. You'll not only have plenty of opportunities to take photographs once you get to your destination, but don't forget to take pictures of the trip as a whole as well. Take photos of the trip, the airport, for example, is filled with sights that would make wonderful trip mementos.

Make sure the subject you are photographing is close enough to clearly see. When you are too far away, it is harder to see the details in the resulting photograph, which can prove quite disappointing. Move closer to give your shots vivid clarity.

Network with other photographers through the local photography club or take photos with a partner. You could learn a lot from other people, but do not let their style influence your pictures. Compare your pictures with each other, and marvel at how one object can be perceived so differently by two people.

Make sure you take note of natural lighting. You will want to pick the best time of the day to take your outdoor photos, evening or morning is the best. Strong natural light casts long shadows and causes the people you are photographing to squint. Consider a position where your subject has the sun shining on them from the side.

Although not all people enjoy taking pictures, most people enjoy looking at them. By going into photography, you can make memories that would've otherwise been missed. Photography is a wonderful and fulfilling hobby to engage in. Sharing photos is also a great stress buster, as was discussed before.


Nabil Faysal