Take Better Holiday Snaps

Article by Jess    No Comments

When I think back to my best holidays, the scenes I remember are picture-perfect. But when I dig out my photos, they’re all red eyes and wonky framing, and they certainly don’t always match up to my memories!

But lately I’ve picked up some better techniques. Whether I’m sunning it up with my family in Greece or taking a journey of discovery in Goa, I’d like to bring home some photos that I want look back on – and share.

Try some of these ideas. They’ve worked for me!

Best basic tips

• Be prepared – Pack spare memory cards and batteries, and charge your camera phone each night, and you’ll always be ready to capture those perfect moments.

• Make the most of light – The rule of thumb for good photographs is to keep your source of light behind you. But, like all rules, this one can be broken to great effect.

• Re-think the flash – Unless you’ve got professional photo kit, your flash will rarely flatter! Try turning off the flash and finding a natural source of light. The flash is handy, though, if you want to snap a portrait of someone in the shade against a bright background (in front of a window or under a beach umbrella, for instance). In such cases, using the flash will let you capture the detail in the foreground as well as the background.

• Say goodbye to blur – Without the flash, you’ll face the problem of blurry pics taken in low light. Avoid this by holding the camera as steady as you can (even lean against a wall or bring the camera close to your body). It helps if you relax and breathe normally, too.

Getting serious

• Get to know your camera – Even if you’ve got the most basic point-and-shoot model, it’s worth reading the manual. And, as with anything, practice makes perfect! So take lots of pics, and don’t be afraid to experiment with settings. Your photographs can only get better.

• Think about framing – You’ll never get bored of snapping beautiful landscapes or the faces of the people you love. But if you want to take more inspiring photographs, then avoid putting the main point of interest smack in the middle of every frame. Try shooting from different angles, too, and don’t be shy about squatting down or finding a high vantage point.

• Up your game – If photography is bringing out your creative side, why not take a course or invest in some kit? It can be incredibly rewarding.

If you’re particularly proud of your holiday shots, why don’t you share them with us on Facebook?