10 July 2009
We all love to take photos of our friends and family, whether it's just relaxing at home, or socialising at a party. But there's a distinct difference between blindly pointing and snapping, and capturing the moment perfectly.
The first thing to remember is that people tend to become anxious when posing for a photo. Your job as the photographer is to make the subject as comfortable as possible. Continue to talk to them and explain what you're doing. Also, take more than one shot, they will become more relaxed and you have a greater chance of avoiding closed eyes or strange expressions.
It's also very important to move around and experiment. Usually people look better from a slightly higher angle. Remember to focus on the eyes and ensure they are centred in the frame, unless you are taking a more creative shot.
When taking photos of children it's sometimes hard to get them to sit still, you should distract them with a toy, and again take plenty of shots.
For an alternative feel when shooting outside, take your photo in the shade. This gives a softer image. When taking photos in direct sunlight the contrast is high and shadows are well defined, which can sometimes ruin a portrait photo.
For indoor shots, you can create extra light by using a white piece of cardboard or reflective screen. This technique directs extra light onto the face and brightens up dark patches or wrinkles.
Finally, you can capture beautiful shots if the person doesn't know they're being photographed. They will appear much more natural and spontaneous. Move around and play with different angles, perhaps stand far away and use the camera zoom to catch them unaware.
Digital Camera Shopper
Comparing 677 prices, across 23 shops, for 50 digital camera models.
