People spend lots of money to get professional photos done of their family, whether it is at a special event (a wedding) or a family portrait. But I have always felt that most people have the ability to capture great moments in time and that "real time" photos are closer to the heart than posing with a forced smile. But how do you capture those fleeting moments? How do you tell a story with a frozen photo? These 5 photography techniques can help get you started. And remember, don't be afraid to experiment. That is one of the beauties of digital photography!
1.) The Element of Surprise
Capturing smiles in the mist of laughter is one of my favorite "poses". It is so genuine and real. It is best to be out of view of the person(s). Try taking a picture of someone from across the room. Real smiles are not just about showing teeth. You can see it in the way that their eyes light up and the way their head may be slightly tilted back. Isn't this the type of feeling you want to capture?
2.) Un-center the World
Not every picture and every object as to be centered. Centered photos are static and unappealing. They do not capture the moment. Instead, focus the prime object or person to one side of the picture. This helps create movement and flow and brings back the "feeling" of the moment.
3.) Show Me a Body Part
Sometimes the best picture is really just part of a whole. Yes, you always want to have that picture of the group to prove who was there. But what about capturing the clasped hands of a couple, or the tangled legs of all the grandchildren? Capturing parts of a picture gives the imagination something to work with. It allows the viewer to recreate a story of the time frozen.
4.) Focus In, Focus Out
This is a tip that is a little harder to master, but still worth mentioning. Not everything has to be in focus, not even your main object has to be in focus. Some great photos focus on something small very close to the camera and it lets the background (but what you are really trying to show) be out of focus. Let's look at an example. What if you focus on a candle flame with a wedding couple not in focus in the background? You can instantly tell what it is, but the flame brings focus to their love and passion.
5.) Set You Camera to Spectacular
Don't be afraid of the settings on your camera. Digital cameras now have a whole host of options built right in that practically does all the work right for you. I am especially fond of the black-and-white setting. It instantly adds class and timelessness. But be sure to use it with high contrast images, or your image will be grey and dull.
Check out more great tips for digital photography here: http://www.creativedigitalphotography.info/.
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