Ten ways to become a better photographer

“Practice, practice, practice.”

1. Use a tripod. Keeping your camera very still is paramount when it comes to producing sharp images. While it isn't so urgent if the images are kept small, it is nice to know that should you wish to enlarge the image the sharp quality will be there.
2. Choose the "right" time of day. The source of light for your image is a critical component in achieving that special feeling you get from seeing the final product. Generally speaking, soft indirect light provides a much more flattering look than a pinpoint source of light like direct sunlight. This soft light is found in shade or very late in the afternoon.
3. Try to avoid extreme contrast. Unless you wish to emphasize a particular design or bright color, it can be very distracting to include overly contrasting elements in the composition. That contrast can easily get far more attention than it deserves.
4. Look for compositions that convey a message and that are interesting. Many times diagonal lines and/or curves are far more interesting than straight vertical lines.
5. Observe the photography of good professionals and see what makes their photography different and interesting.
6. If you are photographing people, try to anticipate expressions which tell a larger story. Engage them in areas of interest to them. This, many times relaxes the subject and promotes a much more believable portrait.
7. If you are photographing children, it is much better to position your camera on a level with them as opposed to high above. This lower angle places you in the child's world instead of "shooting" down on it.
8. Generally speaking, it is far better to photograph people at angles to the camera, as opposed to straight on. Also, the less arms, the better. This is more easily accomplished when the subjects is turned slightly away from the camera and one arm is naturally more behind. Always avoid the dreaded "figleaf" pose where the subjects two hands are held together in front of the body.
9. If you are photographing a group, it is generally better to have each person at different heights if they are side by side. Otherwise the composition becomes much more static and uninteresting.
10. When photographing scenes, always use the golden mean as a guide towards more dynamic composition. Find a center of interest and place it on one of those four intersecting areas. These can be located by mentally drawing a diagonal from one corner to the opposite corner. Then imagine a perpendicular line drawn from one of the other corners to intersect the first diagonal. These are very important points in a composition. Use them to your advantage.

Five Tips For a Great Photo of Your Child

“Even though your kids will consistently do the exact opposite of what you're telling them to do, you have to keep loving them just as much.” —Bill Cosby

1. Choose a time of day when your child feels best. Many times this is in the morning right after breakfast. Of course it will depend on the age of your child.
2. Choose an area with great natural light. This can be any area in your home with large windows and preferable light colored walls. These will have the tendency to bounce light back into shadow areas. It will be much better if direct sunlight IS NOT coming in the window. This would add too much harshness and contrast to the image.
3. Position yourself at approximately the same level as your child. You will see and capture the world as he or she sees it. A much greater intimacy and connection will occur with this approach.
4. Look for and be prepared for spontaneity. This can be achieved by having items of interest to your child, a baby doll, tractor or other toy. By interacting and being patient, you can achieve honest and revealing pictures of your child's personality.
5. Choose clothing which harmonizes with the feelings you wish to have present in the portrait. You would NOT want to use distracting colors or bold designs. I have found that using plain soft colors is many times the best way to go. Pajamas, with little or no designs are a great start. Stay away from dark clothing or extreme contrasts.

Five Suggestions For Top Quality Beach Portraits.

1. Find a photographer with a proven track record. Nothing beats experience.
2. Choose clothing which is in color harmony with the sand and surf. Try to avoid as many bare arms and legs as possible for a timeless and upscale casual portrait.
3. Realize the importance of the time of day for your portrait sitting. Because lighting is so critical, choose a time of day when extreme contrast is minimal. This can be very early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
4. Choose an area which has texture, such as dunes with grass with the ocean in the background. An experienced photographer will know areas which will add to the interest and ultimate composition of your portrait.
5. Choose a fun time, vacation, or other reason for celebration to ensure a sense of togetherness. Many times the family portraits become treasures.

In these days of excellent digital cameras, why do I need a professional photographer?

A highly trained and dedicated professional photographer brings to the table the knowledge of lighting, posing and composition, gained by years of experience and refinement. While cameras have changed and improved over the years, they remain tools. Nothing will ever take the place of the ability to use these tools to produce the excellance you deserve.