Effective photography goes far beyond simple things like lighting levels. It really is a method of artistic expression. There are techniques to learn and master. You will want to look for things that are interesting and appealing to the eye, and pay attention to detail. Here is some advice you can use to get your started.
Try different digital techniques to come up with wonderful photographs that look like watercolors, oil paintings, and graphic pencil sketches. There is a variety of digital software available on the market, but the standard is considered to be Adobe Photoshop. You can easily use a “filter” to turn them into art, just by choosing the selection you want and clicking it.
Don’t let your picture-taking technique get too complicated. There are times when a wonderful photo can be taken without much adjustment in motion or color settings.
Skies that are overcast should be avoided in photographs. An expanse of gray sky in your images will give them a dull, pallid appearance. If you cannot avoid capturing an overcast sky in your shot, opt for black and white rather than color photos. However, if it is a cloudless day, feel free to include as much of the sky as you desire.
Taking Pictures
While many would believe that taking pictures when it is sunny will result in glorious pictures, sunlight can actually ruin the quality of an image. Photos that are taken in the sun will usually result in squinted eyes, odd shadowing, and even lens flares. If possible, choose the early morning hours or late afternoon light when taking pictures outside.
Pictures of people are great. Always ask for their permission. After you get home from your trip, these images will provoke thoughts and memories, even if they are nothing more than ordinary. It’s a great idea to focus on the unique styles and expressions visible in each individual picture.
Less is always more in photo composition. Simple natural shots are sometimes the best ones. The art of innocence is really wonderful, so try to keep the shots you take simple.
One way to exercise your creative muscles is to put limits on how you take pictures. As an example, you may decide to take pictures for the day that represent the concept of “sour.” One way to improve technique in photography is to photograph the same object or scene over and over again. By restricting yourself this way, you can force more creativity from a limited source.
Take the time to read your camera’s manual from front to back. Manuals can be thick, heavy and contain a lot of technical terms. Most people throw manuals away without giving them a second look. Rather than throwing the manual away, you should read it. You will avoid simple errors and improve your skill.
Your image sensor settings (ISO) can help you get very good shots if you know how to work with them. If not, they can sabotage your pictures quickly. You need to keep in mind that if you increase the ISO it increases how much light is let into the camera; this then affects the print and grain on your picture. This can completely ruin your shot.
Change the angle at which you take your photographs to make the composition more unique. Taking a straight, head-on photo of a subject can be effective, but the alternatives available are nearly endless. Instead, try shooting a subject from up above, or look for a way to get below the subject and shoot from the ground. Try composing a shot on the diagonal or from the side to make it more interesting.
By this point, you should realize that there is more to photography than just keeping the subject in focus. You will significantly increase the visual appeal of your photos.
