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.
Overcast skies should not be included in the composition of a picture. If you have too much gray sky in your photo it will make it look muted. If you really want or need a shot in overcast conditions, try a black and white picture to maximize contrast and improve the overall picture. However, if it is a cloudless day, feel free to include as much of the sky as you desire.
When you are photographing nature, steer clear of taking photos that include a sky that is overcast. Including too much of a gray sky will make your pictures appear muted and washed-out. Black and white photos can work better if shot on overcast days. On a beautiful day, you can include as much blue sky as you desire.
Practice taking pictures of people. It’s important and often legal that you gain permission before taking someone’s picture. If you are on a vacation and taking tons of photos, you can look back at them later and reminisce about particular events and times that are memorable. Many times the people in the photos do not seem particularly important or noticeable at the time you snap the picture, the reason you frame the shot to begin with will be clear when you look back at them. Candid expressions and casual clothing will help make your pictures even more memorable.
Framing is a very important aspect of photography. Zoom in on your subject by eliminating objects which detract from your main focal point. This will help keep clutter out of your pictures, and eliminate any unwanted focal points.
Drop the background focus when you are photographing people. When you don’t blur the background, it becomes harder for a viewer to focus on the subject. The easiest way to do this is to increase the distance between subject and background.
You can elevate your photography from a hobby to an art. Use these tips to create proud photographic images. Start implementing these tips right away, but don’t forget that it will take some time and practice to perfect your use of many of these techniques.
