Simple Tips For Taking Photos That Tell A Thousand Words
In the hands of the right person, a camera could be a window to stories that have long been forgotten. Since cameras and photographs were introduced, people have been working towards capturing historic moments. Although it is easier said than done, there have been photos that can tell a thousand words through a single still.
Of course, producing such photos are easier said than done. Whether it be an entry for a photo contest or as an entry into one’s collection, the perfect shot requires a lot of skill and know-how. As such, we have compiled a few tips that could help any up and coming photographer with taking a photo that tells a deep story.
Get Up Close
While there are historic photographs that are shot from a far off perspective, there are a lot more photographers that choose to get up close and personal with their subjects. Of course, it would be a mistake to get way too close. The key is finding the perfect range that respects the subject’s surroundings and the subject itself.
In the case of human subjects, the perspective of the photo is even more crucial. Human emotion is wonderful but hard to capture. If the photographer gets in a perfect range, he could let the future viewers feel that emotion that was coursing right at that moment. A perfect example of this is the acclaimed The Terror of War by Nick Ut.
Don’t Be Afraid To Do Minor Retouches
There are many that would say that editing has become an art form in itself. That is true to a certain extent and what is important is that the original photos aren’t altered heavily for the sake of looking good. Simple changes like the ones made through the best Lightroom presets could help the photographer convey the emotions he wants to get through a lot easier.
Get Great Equipment
Regardless of what others may say, the quality of the photo can only be as good as the quality of the photographer’s camera. While there are some great photos that are taken with older models, like those from the early 50s, today’s standards have changed heavily. One cannot expect to produce high definition photos using cameras with only a few pixels.
Understandably, the best cameras are quite the investment to make, but for professionals and devoted hobbyists, that should be an expense they are willing to make if they want to improve their output. Alternatively, there are some cheap cameras that are able to produce high-quality shots as well, but buyers need to look for these intensively.
Know Your Camera Inside Out
On the topic of equipment, photographers should familiarize themselves with their cameras. By understanding all the possible options, technicalities, and the works, they will be able to unlock the full potential of their most crucial companion. They should take time in inspecting their cameras inside and out as this could open a world of possibilities as well.
Always Come Prepared
Before venturing out for a photo walk or a shoot, photographers must ensure that they have the necessary equipment at bay. It is crucial to bring extra batteries at all times. And if possible, they should also bring extra lenses as they could find subjects that are best captured with specific equipment.
Practice Patience
Cameras capture moments that frame in less than a second. As such, patience and timing are crucial for getting that shot. If there isn’t any reason to rush, photographers should not get too trigger happy with their cameras. Some of the world’s top nature photographers spend days stalking a subject animal for great shots, and the results they come up with are breathtaking.
Get More Technical Through Reading
One of the best ways to improve one’s skill behind the camera is through reading. There are numerous guidebooks that teach up and coming photographers all they need to know in developing their craft. Next, to the cameras itself, photographers should also invest heavily in books and even instructional videos.
These are just small but necessary tips for photographers hoping to improve their skills with a camera. By taking these into consideration, photographers from all levels could improve even by a small margin. As with most hobbies and professions, practice and perseverance will go a long way as well.
