Do you want to take better photographs for your website and social media? If so, you’re in luck!
This post will teach you everything you need to know about photography basics.
We’ll cover topics like composition, lighting, and editing.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, this post has something for everyone!
1 – Get closer to your subject
Get closer to the subject of your photograph, so it fills the frame.
If you’re taking photos using your phone, chances are the lens is pretty wide.
Don’t pinch and zoom; it will distort your final image. The best zoom lens you have is your feet!
2 – Understand the rule of thirds
One of the most significant compositional guidelines in photography is the rule of thirds.
Break your image into thirds, both horizontally and vertically, and place critical elements of your photo along the gridlines.
3 – Keep your horizon straight!
If you want to make me scream, share a photo with a wonky horizon.
Crooked horizons are a common mistake and easily fixed.
We are naturally attracted to straight, level lines. A tilted horizon throws out the natural appeal of a photograph.
Straightening up your horizon is a simple task in your editing software, usually found in the crop tool.
4 – Have your subject looking into space
Another compositional tip is to have your subject looking into space.
If you follow the rule of thirds and place your subject on the left side of the photo, have them look into the space on the right of the frame.
5 – Don’t overdo it with the filters
You are not my teenage daughter. Less is more when applying filters or other effects to your photos.
The proliferation of photo editing apps brings the temptation to slap on an extreme filter, enhancing colours and lighting in your photo.
Subtle is best.
6 – Put the window behind you
Lighting is a crucial consideration when taking any photo.
After all, the word photograph is derived from the Latin “phos” for light and “graphe” for drawing or painting.
The best position for light in your photo? To the side and slightly above the photographer.
The worst source of lighting in a photo is an overhead ceiling light.
7 – Use a tripod
Keeping your camera stable when taking a photo keeps the image sharp by preventing blur.
Consider resting it on a solid surface if you can’t put your camera (or phone) on a tripod.
8 – Exclude distracting elements
What is the subject of your photograph? Exclude everything else.
Each element of your photo should be part of the story.
The best way to exclude distractions from your photo is to position yourself correctly before snapping away.
There is some latitude in editing to remove distracting elements, for example, specs of dust or hairs on clothing.
9 – Balance the light and dark areas
Our eyes are excellent at differentiating between dark and light parts of a scene.
In camera terms, the human eye can perceive 21 stops of dynamic range; a stop is the halving or doubling of light (exposure) in a photo.
The best cameras on the market can’t quite manage this, but even blending two stops of light can dramatically improve the look of your images.
Be mindful of incredibly dark (underexposed) or light (overexposed) parts in your photo, and try to achieve a better balance.
10 – Think like a worm and a bird
Different perspectives are good!
When I was learning to make a documentary, I was advised to take some shots from the perspective of a worm (from the ground) and as a bird (from up high).
Changing your perspectives can make photos more interesting.
11 – Take advantage of natural framing
When we display art in our homes, we tend to frame them.
Finding and using natural frames in your photos delivers an immediate compositional improvement.
Placing a frame around your subject gives your viewer an easy visual guide, making the shot more attractive.
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We hope you’ve found these 11 tips helpful.
As a business, it’s essential to invest in quality visuals that help you stand out from the competition.
If you need help with photography, we’re here to help.
As a Certified Professional Photographer with more than 20 years of experience, I can take your photos and make sure they look great online.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and hire me as your photographer!
