Everyone takes photographs. We take photographs to record significant moments in our lives. We take pictures of birthday celebrations, holidays, and weddings. We do not worry about getting the perfect shot. When we see the photograph, we recall that special moment. We accomplished what we set out to do with our picture.

Sometimes want a picture that is perfect. When we want a photograph good enough to frame and display, we call a professional photographer. However, it is possible to improve the shots you take. There are some tricks of the trade that will bring your photos to life.

We will give you five tips that will help you take better photographs. With these tips and a little practice, your photographs are more interesting.

Photo Credit: Jestoni Dadis

Pay Attention

It is a common mistake. The person with the camera is so focused on the subject of their shot that they tune out other things that are in the shot. For example, if you are taking a picture of another person, look behind them. If there is a pole directly behind them, it may look as if it is coming out of their head. The background is important. It will make or break the photo.

Watch out for signs, trash, construction, and old cars. Instead, look around for a pretty fence, tree, or building. Focus on your subject, and the background will complement the subject by adding interest.

Back Off

You may want a photo of someone’s face. You want their face to fill up the frame. The problem with taking a “to” close-up is that the face looks distorted. Back up a little. Take your picture in at a more natural angle.

The close-up you desire happens in the editing phase of photography. Cropping the picture causes the face to take up the frame. The face is not distorted, and the shadows that haunt the first photograph disappear.

All About The Angle

The background of a picture does not have to be photographed at the normal angle. Move into different positions and find an interesting angle. By moving the camera, you change the way the subject fits into the picture. A building may look like it is leaning to one side. While the odd angle draws the eye, the focus is on the person or object in the photograph. Play with it, and you will soon know how to make the pictures you take much more interesting.

Practice is important. The best thing about this assignment is you take some wonderful shots purely by accident. As you are learning, you gather great shots in the experience.

The ⅔’s Rule

Contrary to what most people believe, the subject of a photo should not be dead center. Photographers use the ⅔ rule. Image your screen has a tic-tac-toe board on the screen. Two vertical lines and two horizontal lines make six boxes. Your subject should where two of the lines cross. No matter which intersection you choose, your subject is taking up ⅓ of the screen allowing the background to frame them. Any cross lines will do. This is another reason to look for a nice or unusual background.

Bonus Tip

We have focused on taking photographs in natural settings. Sometimes you need a great backdrop. A backdrop lets you use your imagination. Backdrops are designed for professionals. They allow for perfect lighting and they frame the subject in a variety of ways. Learn more about this photographer hack on this site.

Things That Go Wrong

You may be taking photographs for yourself or your family. You may be just learning photography. Being a bit apprehensive is natural. There are some things that you will learn quickly. It is best if you prepare yourself for things all professionals address often.

The photograph will come out better if the subject does what you tell them.
The subject will never do what you tell them.

All kids get crazy. Expect it, plan for it, and do not let it bother you. The parents may freak out a bit, so remain calm and work through it.

If you are charging for your work, “the price is too high.” If you offered 90% off, they would ask for another 5% discount. There seems to be a silent rule that people have to ask for a discount. Do not let it bother you. Your work has value. Even if you are doing the photos for a friend, there are expenses to cover.

Conclusion

Whether you are taking photographs for yourself or you are taking them for others, there are tips and tricks to help you. It is worth your time to explore a bit and practice. It cost nothing to take pictures and upload them to your computer. Study the pictures. Compare them with professional shots. Identify your style, your strong points, and your weaknesses. Every minute you spend learning your craft will show up in your prints. It is well worth the effort. There is no time like the present, so grab your camera and get started today.