by Donna Culpepper
We always go on great vacations, but you’d never know it by our far-less-than-spectacular photographs. Any suggestions?
Spring is upon us and we begin making family summer vacation plans to the beach, theme parks and visits with relatives. The best way to keep these memories fresh for our children is to take plenty of snapshots while we are enjoying leisure time with our family. These events produce priceless family moments that we all want to remember forever. Photographs of our family capture the most valuable memories we have. But all too often, people come home with the anticipation of having these snapshots printed, only to be disappointed with the results.
A little planning and thought can go a long way in producing better quality photographs. Whether you have a digital or film camera, most tips apply to both. Here are a few suggestions to consider:
- Get to know your camera before you head off on vacation. Read your camera manual or take a basic photography class.
- Take along extra batteries and plenty of extra film or memory cards.
- Invest in a small, padded hip bag to carry your camera and free up your hands when not in use. This will ensure that your camera is available at all times, as well as protect your camera from sun and sand.
- If you have a problem holding your camera steady, try bracing your elbows against your body when pressing the shutter and making sure your feet are in a steady stance. While pressing the shutter, be sure you do not move the camera.
- Morning and late afternoon light is softer and more flattering. Overcast skies help reduce harsh shadows under eyes. Shoot with the sun to your back. This will light your subjects faces. If you have harsh shadows, use a “fill flash.”
- Stand at least three feet from your subject, but not so far that you get mainly background.
- Think about composition in your photographs. Consider not only your subject, but the background as well. Action shots often tell the story of your vacation. Nothing is more boring than every photograph showing people lined up looking at the camera.
- Be familiar with your printing source before you entrust your film with them. If you are not sure, you might consider having one roll printed to check quality before you leave all of the rolls shot on vacation.
Donna and Mike Culpepper are owners of Mike Culpepper Photography Studios specializing in portrait, wedding and commercial photography since 1982.
