Basics of Camera Usage

Taking pictures is a fun hobby which, unlike most other activities, provides you a lifetime of tangible, visible memories.

Below are some tips to help you take great pictures.

Indoor Shots

Taking sharp pictures indoors can be difficult for a beginning photographer when the camera mode is set to the 'manual' setting and he must focus using his own skills. On the other hand, switching the camera to 'auto' will enable the camera to do the focus work automatically, normally providing a great picture.

The flash is also an important camera setting. When a picture is blurred, this is usually caused by a lack of required light. Using the flash helps to avoid this problem. If you are in doubt, though, take two pictures - one with, and the other without the flash, then compare your results.

Batteries, Batteries, Batteries

Check the camera batteries regularly to ensure they have sufficient power available to use the flash, as it consumes a lot of battery power. Low remaining power can be detected easily when the flash doesn't activate while taking a shot.

Avoiding Glare on Pictures

While using the flash, make sure a mirror or white surface is not in the direct line of the shot. Either of those would result in a sharp brightness over your shot and a poor quality photo. A shot should be taken in the opposite direction of such these surfaces.

Frame and Focus

While taking a shot make sure that your subject is centered in your picture and not off to one side. Also focus on the subject before considering other details to be included in the picture.

Another important consideration when positioning your camera is to take all pictures without any other objects in your hands, including gloves. Otherwise, you might inadvertently block the camera lens and cut off part of your intended picture.

Taking Pictures Outdoors

Because of the brightness of the sun, taking pictures outdoors is best with a film of ISO 100.

People are often uncomfortable with the sun's heat or light in their eyes when posing for a picture. Consequently, a better spot would be a shady location or perhaps under an umbrella.

At times photographers have a problem with dark pictures even outdoors. This is typically caused when the camera lens is in front of direct sunlight. To avoid this, always ensure that the sun is behind the camera, or use a flash instead.

Lock it In

Cameras available today have a built-in feature of locking in the focus of their subjects before the shot is actually snapped. To make use of this feature all you have to do is to focus your target, then press the shutter halfway without completely pressing it. After a brief pause to ensure the picture in the frame looks clear, then press the shutter completely to complete the picture.

Your Background

Another important factor to consider when taking a shot is to be aware of the background. Take notice of each detail such as walls, trees, plants, etc. You don't want your picture "infiltrated" with undesirable objects through careless inclusion.

Source : Ezinearticles