I have actually been involved with magazine photography for a number of years now and it has taught me a few key lessons that will help improve your photographs. First and foremost learn the Basics , especially the key rules which are the rule of thirds, framing and basic composition. Secondly it’s not the camera that takes the picture; it’s the photographer that fills the frame, its important not to forget this as a good workman never blames his tools. I have seen some spectacular images taken with very basic cameras. What ever camera you have make sure you know how to use it, learn what the different settings do.
Key points of composition are; always look for a different angle, if possible avoid taking photos at eye level. The reason for this is simple – it’s what everyone sees all the time, its normal, therefore its boring. Find something you wish to photograph and try using a different angle for example take a picture from up high or down low, a different angle can make all the difference and turn a good picture into a great one. (This is why you will often see other photographers crouching down when taking a photo.) Also note that; When photographing people a slightly lower angle will make a person look younger because it will reduce the visibility of wrinkles and other signs of age. Lower angle again will make the person look larger and taller than they really are. A high angle shots will do the reverse and make them look smaller.Research is another easy way to improve your photography fast. Look at other people’s photos. Scour magazines and art galleries spend time and try to identify what makes a specific photo great. Then when you’re next doing your own photo shoot try to replicate this. Before taking pictures spend time thinking about images you would like create, if you know the photograph you want before picking up your camera then your half way there.
Decide what your focal point is, then use it to fill in the frame. This is the key and is what makes photography and art from – a camera cannot fill the frame for you. Identify your focal point and use it to fill as much of the frame as possible, close ups are always impressive. If you try and include too many different things in a photo it becomes cluttered and ensures that nothing in the image will have impact – KEEP IT SIMPLE. Remember just because it’s not in the middle doesn’t mean it’s not your focal point; don’t forget the basics.
Rotate your camera; your camera doesn’t always have to be horizontal, vertical pictures are often more powerful because there is one focal point and less clutter in the background. In my mind having only one focal point in the image improves the entire pictures impact and composition. Also note that it doesn’t matter which way you hold the camera you still have to be careful, the horizon line should always be parallel with the top of the image, this is a sure fire way to ruin a nice photo.When photographing people especially outside, ask them to remove hats and sunglasses if possible and then always use a fill in flash. This may sound contradictory to use a flash on a bright sunny day however it will help reduce shadow and balance out the light in the image. This means that not only will your ‘models’ have smoother looking skin they will also look younger and healthier. This is never a bad thing especially when taking photos of your girlfriend.
In conclusion; Learn The Basics of photography things such as the rule of thirds or framing it will provide the building blocks for great images, from there improving your photos is easy, it just involves a lot of practice and a little research. Spend time looking at other photographers photos and envision what images you would like before starting to take photos – it is much easier that thinking on the spot.
Finally, when you know the rules break them - there is no right or wrong way to take a photograph. The basic photograph techniques are all just guidelines to what is aesthetically pleasing, once you understand these don’t be afraid to try something new it will either reinforce the rule or create a great photograph. Best of all in today’s digital age its not going to cost you anything to practice and try new photography techniques. I categorically believe that the best way to become a better photographer is to practice, practice, and practice.
If your interested in some more images and photography check out www.outwidephotography.com. Its full of incredible images from all reaches of the globe. Its also updated regularly so if you like it dont forget to check back regularly.
