Six Trix for Better Pix

Want to get some great nature photos? Just grab a camera and follow these easy tips!

1. Fit the SHAPE

  • Think of your camera’s viewfinder as a picture frame. Try to match the frame to the shape of your subject.
  • If you have an up-and-down subject, don’t hold the camera in the "normal" way (below left). Turn your camera side-ways to fit the shape of your subject (below right).
Six Trix for Better Pix - shape

2. Get the LIGHT RIGHT

  • If you shoot toward the sun, your subject may come out too dark (below left).
  • Shoot with the sun behind you or to the side and the subject will come out just right (below right).
Six Trix for Better Pix - lighting
  • If you shoot in bright, midday sun, your photo may have lots of glare and dark shadows (below left).

  • Wait for a cloud to come along, or shoot early or late in the day. That will "soften" the glare and shadows for a more pleasing photo (below right).

Six Trix for Better Pix - lighting tips 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Fill the FRAME

  • Small things can "disappear" if you shoot from too far away (below left).
  • "Supersize" your subject by using your camera’s zoom or by moving closer (below right).
Six Trix for Better Pix - frame

4. Cut the CLUTTER

  • Check all parts of your frame before you shoot. Watch for stuff that doesn’t belong—and takes attention away from your subject (below left).
  • Move your subject (or yourself) or zoom in to get a simpler, uncluttered background (below right).
Six Trix for Better Pix - clutter

5. Go LOW

  • Got a subject at ground level? Aiming down (lower left) might be OK, but . . .
  • . . . it’s usually better to get down on your knees or even your belly and go eye to eye (lower right).
Six Trix for Better Pix - height

6. Catch the MOMENT

  • Think you have a good shot lined up? Go ahead and shoot (lower left). But then wait a moment.
  • With patience, you may turn a good shot into a great one (lower right). Try to catch that magical moment!
    Six Trix for Better Pix - moment

Tips by Gerry Bishop
Photos by J. H. Pete Carmichael

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Cover June-July 2012
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