Tips for Taking Beautiful Pregnancy Photos

There are a few different types of tips that can help to create flattering and beautiful pregnancy photos.

Pose Tips

• One of the best poses for a beautiful pregnancy photo is of the mother with her hands on her bare belly. There are different angles that can be explored and different settings that can help support the shot, but one would be hard pressed to find a better pose.
• It's also very important to make sure that the pregnant mother is comfortable at all times. If standing proves difficult, be sure to have some posing ideas for sitting. A great shot of her belly can be taken standing, sitting, laying down, etc. Also, be sure to not choose any poses that are strenuous. They are not safe for the mother and will surely show on her facial expression.
• Consider props. If the mother already has another child, perhaps he or she can sit with his or her hands on the mother's belly. If the mother reads to her unborn child every day, consider taking a photo of her reading to her child. Great props can help to create great shots.

Camera and Lighting Tips

• Do not use a flash. This tip cannot be stressed enough. If you are in a low-light situation, add additional lights or perhaps consider moving to a better lit area. Flashes can help to bleach out the gorgeous glow of a pregnant women and that's never flattering! Be careful of broad daylight and strong sunlight as it can also create unnatural colors that wash out your subject.
• Natural light can help make a photograph look brighter and warmer. Consider finding interesting ways to bring it into your scene, such as windows and blinds.
• Don't use quick shutter or small aperture settings. The combination of a quick shutter and small aperture will not help with trying to not use a flash. If using a digital camera, try to find the setting for 'portrait'. If you're using film, try to use a slower film to attract more detail to the shot. 

Other Important Tips

• Experiment with location. There are as many great pregnancy photos that are taken on ones home couch as there are in a park. Don't think that you have to follow any rules as far as where your pictures take place.
• Don't underestimate the value of a simple, candid shot. Some of the best pregnancy photos have been taken when no one was expecting them.
• Consider having the baby's father in a few of the shots. The mother will feel more comfortable and it gives a great chance to take a family portrait a few months early.
• Avoid background items. Keep the shot as simple as possible to highlight the pregnancy. If the frame is cluttered with background items, it will detract from what's important.
• If you're the photographer, continually work to hype up the pregnant mother. Remind her that she is beautiful and that she is doing a great job. Pregnant photos can be awkward for some women. As a photographer, you should work to minimize any discomfort she may feel.

Final Thoughts

The most important tip to keep in mind when trying to take beautiful pregnancy photos is to remember the point of the picture is to get a great shot of a beautiful moment in a woman's life. Keep that objective in mind and the photos will be great!

Additional LoveToKnow Resources

For answers to all your questions about having a baby, check out the helpful articles at LoveToKnow Pregnancy.

Tips for Taking High Fashion Photos

The aforementioned photographers were able to score huge paychecks from fashion magazines and designers who hired them to shoot their runway shows. Despite the success of these chosen few, the road to stardom in the fashion photography industry is challenging. It takes hard work, determination and a keen eye to succeed at taking high fashion photos.

By learning a few tips you may be able to follow in the footsteps of famous fashion photographers.

Know Before You Go

Before you show up to a fashion shoot, it’s a good idea to do your homework. Head to the bookstore and look through current issues of high fashion magazines. Study the lighting, angles, hair, make-up and locations. Then, try to recreate the look in your own shots. 

Make Connections

It’s not easy getting your foot into the world of high fashion photography. In order to break into the highly competitive field, consider making connections with others in the industry. For example, by befriending budding hairstylists, makeup artists, models, and stylists you may be able work out an agreement with them, which includes trading their services for prints or digital images you take for their portfolios. This partnership can raise the quality of your final product and provide you with outstanding photos for your portfolio.

Network

There’s always a chance that the young designer who asked to team up with you will become the next Marc Jacobs. Never turn down a chance to network with others in the field of high fashion. In addition, keep your eyes peeled for opportunities to score inexpensive studio space or photo equipment. Peruse bulletin boards at photo labs or join an online photo club and start networking.

Keep it Simple

If you are just starting out taking high fashion photos, then consider streamlining your equipment. Less experienced models can be intimidated by bulky equipment, multiple lights, and complicated setups. Stick with the basics, such as high quality digital SLR or film camera, a tripod, and a reflector disk. You can also keep it simple by employing as much natural light as possible in your shoots. Aim to shoot at dawn and dusk when the sunlight casts a flattering golden glow on your subjects and avoid shooting during the midday hours when the sun produces harsh facial shadows and flat light.

Tell a Story

Tell a story with your shots to help set your portfolio apart from the competition. To create a compelling narrative with your pictures, weed out the images that illustrate a single technique. Then, gather five to seven inspirational shots that speak volumes for your skills.

Taking High Fashion Photos

Famous Fashion Photographers

Examples of high fashion photography can be seen everywhere from TV ads to magazine spreads. These exquisite shots often feature some of the world’s most beautiful women modeling extremely expensive ensembles made by some of the hottest fashion designers. It is through these photographs that high fashion is marketed to the masses. Subsequently, the pictures must be taken with special attention to lighting, composition, and detail.

Photographers, who are able to employ these key factors to create stunning high fashion photos, often become as famous as the models they shoot. Mario Testino and Eva Mueller are among the highest paid fashion photographers in the world today. They join the ranks of other famous high fashion shutterbugs, including:

• Nigel Barker: The model turned fashion photographer is known for his artistic shots. Barker’s work has appeared within the pages of GQ, Interview, and Playboy. Barker is now best known for his work shooting and judging models on America’s Top Model.

• Helmut Newton (1920-2004): The famous German fashion photographer is a legend in the industry. His classic Vogue magazine spreads are often used in photography classes to show students proper high fashion photo techniques.

• Francesco Scavullo (1921-2004): American fashion photographer Francesco Scavullo is best known for his work with superstars of the modeling world, including Brooke Shields and Cindy Crawford.

• Herb Ritts (1952-2002): Ritts made a name for himself in the fashion industry by shooting famous supermodels in provocative poses. Some of his most famous fashion photo collections include awe-inspiring shots of singer Madonna in haute couture gowns and fishnet stockings, and actress Elizabeth Taylor sporting designer ensembles worth tens of thousands of dollars.

Specialty Senior Photography Poses

These days the most popular senior portrait option is the specialty pose. These poses allow students’ personalities to shine through and transcend ordinary photographs. Photographers refer to these poses as “fun shots” and encourage teens to bring along personal props that express their individuality and enhance the portrait.

For example, a star athlete might consider being snapped catching a game-winning ball or a die-hard equestrian might consider posing with a horse.

Popular props include:

• Musical instruments
• Uniforms (cheerleading, football, basketball or military)
• Sports equipment (such as footballs, skis, bats, pom-poms or tennis rackets)
• Pets
• Hats
• Vehicles (cars, motorcycles, or bikes)
• Books
• Games (chess/checker boards or video games)

Photographers find a way to integrate these props into senior photos so recipients of the portraits get a sense of what the student is most passionate about.

Perfecting Your Pose

Before you arrive at a photo shoot, it’s a good idea to practice your facial expressions in front of a mirror. Experiment with various smiles, poses and animated expressions. Your level of comfort will show in your body language, so your goal should be to appear as natural and upbeat as possible.

Professional photographers will arrange your standing and sitting positions and provide direction on other poses. However, you should not hesitate to suggest other stances or positions.

When personalizing your pose, consider these simple tips:

1. Attitude makes a difference. The more comfortable you are in front of the camera, the better your shots will turn out.
2. Be yourself. You don’t have to break out a huge grin in each shot. Make yourself comfortable and pose naturally.
3. Bring in samples. If you have a pose that you admire from a magazine or book, bring it with you to your session and have the photographer work with you to replicate it.
4. Get to know your photographer. Set up a meeting with your photographer prior to your session to discuss different pose options. Getting comfortable with your photographer will yield quality senior portraits.

The Importance of Senior Portraits

High school senior pictures document a student at the brink of adulthood poised to begin the next chapter in his or her life. These portraits have special meaning for students and their families, which is why capturing the right pose is so important.

Senior Photography Poses

Having professional photos taken of high school seniors is an American tradition that dates back to the 1930s. Back then, boys were photographed in tuxedo jackets, while girls were draped in fur-trimmed shawls and classic pearls. As the country prepared to enter World War II, high school seniors struck stiff poses and rarely smiled for the camera. These days, however, senior photography poses have evolved into a world of its own.

Formal vs. Informal

Most professional photographers specializing in senior portraits offer packages that allow a student to choose from 15 to 40 different poses per session. Poses are broken down into categories, with the most popular being formal and informal.

Formal

Formal senior portraits feature traditional poses, including the standard head and shoulders shot with students donning a graduation cap and gown or other formal attire. These types of photos are punctuated with different background colors and are preferred for high school yearbooks and graduation invitations. Formal poses are also the ones most often displayed in frames by proud parents and grandparents. However, these types of traditional poses rarely capture a student's true personality.

Informal

Informal poses capture a high school senior in a more casual setting. The majority of these photos are three-quarter or full-length shots, which gives teens more latitude to strike unique poses.

Indoors: Informal indoor shots take place at the photography studio with students donning casual outfits such as their favorite jeans or sweater. Photographers may position teens on stools or have them sit in lightweight chairs near windows or mirrors. In addition, some informal poses will feature students gazing in a direction other than where the camera is positioned. Not all shots will include a full smile.

Outdoors: Another type of informal shot can be taken outdoors. Teens wearing casual clothing are encouraged to pose near trees and fountains, on a park bench, or in the middle of flowery meadow. When posing for an informal outdoor shot, it is critical to take note of your entire appearance. Full-length informal poses can reveal unmatched socks, missing belts, odd accessories and stained pants. Be sure to check your outfits ahead of time for spots, wrinkles, and holes. 

Professional Christmas Portraits

Tips for Taking Professional Christmas Portraits

Advanced preparation helps the sitting run smoothly and reduces the chance of needing extra time to make decisions while the clock is ticking on your session.  To ensure a frame worthy holiday photo, consider the following tips for taking professional Christmas portraits:

Timing Is Key

When booking your sitting, consider your family's schedule.  Avoid booking a sitting right before or after work, since traffic could delay your arrival and result in an unpleasant portrait sitting. Also, consider the age of your children.  You shouldn't plan to get professional Christmas photos taken at mealtime or naptime.  If you have a newborn, book your session for just after feeding times to avoid a cranky baby.  You should also consider the number of people in the portrait.  The more people you have at the photo session, the more time is needed to coordinate poses.  Finally, Christmas is a busy season for many photographers, so being on time is sometimes not enough – arrive early if you can. This allows you to check-in, make any last minute adjustments to your hair and clothing, and allows you to field any potential disasters such as a fussy baby or wardrobe malfunctions.

Outfits

A great outfit can really add shine to your Christmas portraits. Whether you're inspired by images of your family in matching Santa hats or you've found the perfect outfit for your infant, the clothes make the portrait. Pick your outfits carefully, so that they don't clash with a desired portrait backdrop.  When dressing a large group consider selecting a solid-colored top, such as red, white or brown.  Neutral colors are best to use, especially if different members of your family are wearing different style tops.  Likewise, stay away from big bold prints if you are posing with a number of other family members.  You don't want to clash with the rest of the family, so consider toning it down for the portrait session, even if you typically wear loud clothing on a regular basis.  

Backdrops

backdrops are also important in professional Christmas portraits.  Many photographers allow you to select your backgrounds ahead of time, as doing so helps save time on the day of your session. Ask your photographer what types of backdrops will best suit the number of subjects in your portrait. Finally, remember to consider your outfits when choosing a background.  Select plain backgrounds for busy outfits, or you risk being in the center of an unflattering holiday photo.

Be Prepared

Make sure you have everything you need for your professional sitting. This includes all outfits, shoes, accessories, and personal items, such as hairspray and pantyhose. Emergency supplies such as baby wipes, stain remover sprays, hair ties and bobby pins should also be brought along. Finally, pack an anti-static dryer sheet in your bag.  It can be rubbed on clothing or even swiped over hair to remove winter static.

Photography Props

Necessity of Props

Although some photographers and subject find props cumbersome and cheesy, a minimal number of props are needed for most studio portraits. Basic props like chairs, benches, cushions, stools and columns allow different poses for individual and group portraits. Backdrops, even plain ones, can provide start contrast to a person’s outfit, match their eye color or simply provide a soft setting for a portrait.

Using photography props can also serve purposes beyond simply setting a nice pose. They can:

• Create a scene, such as a window bench and seat in front of a floral cloth
• Enhance a personality trait, like using easels and paint cans in the picture when photographing an artist
• Depict a holiday, such as Easter (basket with eggs), Halloween/Thanksgiving (pumpkins and fall leaves) and Christmas (sleigh, sled, Christmas tree)

Choose props carefully and with the assistance of the person being photographed. A rough-and-tough football player, even though dressed in a suit, may not want to pose in front of a Victorian porch swing. Props are supposed to enhance, not overwhelm the subject. Too many props can take the focus away from the person and will make the photo look cluttered.

Suggestions for Photography Props

Photographers each have their own photography style, including a preference for particular props. Before choosing a professional, ask about props available and look at a portfolio of their previous work. Studios often allow or even encourage customers to bring their own props in, which may include favorite toys, collections or awards.

Babies and Toddlers

Babies under one year of age may need special props to help pose them. Breastfeeding pillows covered in a drop cloth can prop babies up on their stomach or allow them to recline in a seated position. Small items like angel wings, ribbons and bows, wooden alphabet blocks, stuffed animals and cherished keepsakes also serve as excellent baby props.

Toddlers are notoriously hard to photograph. Old enough to realize that it is not Mommy behind the camera, they can get scared and cry. Alternatively, they may be too excited to sit or stand, running all over the studio. Props can help in both situations. To help toddlers become comfortable in the studio, allow them to hold a favorite blanket or stuffed animal while headshots are being taken. Allowing toddlers to sit in a pedal car or tractor can keep them in one spot. Giving them a log, column or confetti to play with or hold onto can also get their attention. 

Families

Props used in family portraits are often part of the background. A white picket fence, gazebo, barn scene with hay bales will add depth and dimension to a standard seated photograph. Outdoor photographs can incorporate trees, rivers, large rocks and park benches into the scene.

Individual Shots

Individual portraits, like senior photography sessions, often incorporate props into the photo. Simple barrels, ladders, stools and windows provide visual interest without detracting from the subject. Add some individuality by incorporating instruments, religious books, athletic gear, awards and flowers into individual photographs. Personalizing the photo makes it more meaningful.

Find and Buy Portrait Props

Props are all around. Looking in the right place is the key to finding them. Antique chairs, discarded quilts and toys are good choices for a beginning photographer’s studio. Check garage sales, auctions, consignment stores and even personal basements to find unique items that add visual interest to a photograph.

Professional photographers often purchase props from retailers who cater to the industry. Stores like Photographyprops.com, American Photographic Resources, Inc. and Pro Studio Supply offer quality merchandise meant to be used in a professional setting. Backdrops, seasonal items and basics are all often available for purchase at professional photography support stores.

Photography props create a visually stimulating photograph and can help convey emotion along with proper posing and lighting techniques. Using the right props in a photograph can add extra dimension and enhance the personality of the subjects in the photo.

Basic One Person Photography Posing Ideas

If you have just one person to photograph, then you have the widest range of possible posing options. Select a pose based on by what type of shot cropping you are doing with your viewfinder. Here are some basic examples of shot cropping.

Profile

A profile style shot is done by turning your subject so that one shoulder is facing the camera and only half of the face can be seen in the viewfinder. Your main light source should be shining on the subjects face for the best photo. With a dark background, this pose can be very moody and dramatic. To get rid of shadows, light the subject from the front and the side the camera is on.

Three-Quarter

The next type of shot is the three-quarter shot. This is when you only photograph the subject from the chest up. Even though this may sound uninspired, you can do many poses with a three-quarter shot. Have the person sit on a chair backwards and rest their heads on the back of the chair, for instance. Have your subject play with different facial expression and shoulder movements. 

Full-Body

The most versatile shot for posing is the full-body shot. This shot incorporates the entire body, not just parts of it. Some ideas for good full-body poses are:

• Have the subject lie down and prop his head up with his hands
• Have the subject put her hand on her hip
• Have the subject sit with his legs crossed and to the side
• Have the subject straddle a chair or object

No matter how you crop the shot, remember to incorporate props for the widest range of posing options.

Multiple Subject Poses

When dealing with groups it is more important to be organized than creative. Shooting multiple subjects can be very limiting when you are trying different poses. You have to get all of the subjects into the photo while still being close enough to capture the details of the faces. The more people in the photo, the harder this becomes. Some basic rules of thumb can help any photography posing ideas work properly.

Small Groups

First, remember the basic photography Rule of Triangles. In each group photo, you should incorporate poses that form a triangle effect. Look at the example. Notice how the subjects are positioned so that their heads form a triangle or diamond shape? This can be done with most small groups by either having people sit and others stand or by having the subjects positioned by height.

Large Groups

With large groups, position subjects so that they form an “X” shape. Create this by placing the taller people in the back row, the shorter people in the middle row and having some people sit in the first row. Heads should be positioned so that they are in-between the heads that are in front of them for the best result.

Christmas Portrait Background Ideas

The following Christmas portrait background ideas suit almost every family portrait, from the super traditional to the quirky and unusual:

Christmas Tree

This standard background is the staple of Christmas portraits. Whether you are at home or in the studio, posing in front of a Christmas tree is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. To personalize your photo, bring heirloom ornaments to the front, so they can be seen in the photo.  Also, try experimenting with poses.  Formal poses can be alternated with less formal, fun poses, such as a shot of the family in front of the tree in their pajamas waiting for Santa. However, when you are using a Christmas tree as a backdrop for your holiday photo make sure your clothing choices are neutral, as the tree is typically very colorful and busy. 

Backdrops

Plain, solid backdrops also serve as a great foundation for holiday photos.  Professional quality bakdrops are available in smooth plastic or paper, canvas or textured muslin varieties. They are also suitable for a large number of subjects.  While it may seem plain, this Christmas portrait background idea allows for creativity with outfits and props. Muslin backdrops come in a variety of colors, including white, red, green and black – all of which can be used to create a Christmas theme. They also work well for both formally posed portraits and casual poses. Plain muslin or canvas backgrounds may seem bland, but they really represent an opportunity for your family to express themselves. This is the chance to use wacky outfits, bright colors and zany props.

Fireplace

A fireplace decorated for the season with stockings and garland makes an excellent setting for a Christmas portrait. This idea can be used for fun, relaxed portraits.  Try dressing the family in pajamas, posed around the fire with cups of hot cocoa.  Or you can opt for a more traditional family portrait with the entire family dressed in their holiday best. Keep in mind that a fireplace is a busy backdrop, so avoid wearing bold prints.  Instead, choose solid colored outfits for a more striking image.

Snow

Posing outside provides a number of opportnities to make your holiday photo stand out, from building a snowman to decorating the house. If you are lucky enough to have a blanket of snow in your yard while your portrait is being shot, then you might consider taking shots of a  family snowball fight or the gang working on a snow fort.  If you don't have the ingredients for a white Christmas during your photo shoot, then consider posing in front of evergreen bushes or trees dressed in hats, gloves and scarves.

Accessories

If you are looking to add spice to plain Christmas portrait background ideas, then gather some seasonal props, such as brightly wrapped presents, garland, Christmas tree ornaments and Santa hats. Props can enhance the background; however, it's important to remember that the focus should be on the photo subjects, so make sure that any props being used are not too distracting.

Tips to Consider

When planning your Christmas portrait session, speak with your photographer to discuss what types of backdrops are available. If you are shooting your own portrait, you'll need to consider how many people will be in the shots and their abilities to hold a pose.  The very young and very old may not be comfortable posing with some background ideas.

Retrieved from "http://photography.lovetoknow.com/Christmas_Portrait_Background_Ideas"

---

Portrait Tips

Finding good Christmas portrait ideas is only part of the creative process. Whether you're planning to photograph the entire family or just the children, it's crucial to plan ahead. Follow the checklist below to ensure your Christmas portraits come out looking like professional photographs:

1. Gather materials like backgrounds, apparel, accessories, decorations and camera equipment.
2. Set a date that works for everyone. If you plan to shoot outdoors, create a backup plan should the weather take a turn for the worse.
3. Plan to take lots of extra photographs in case some of them turn out poorly.
4. Keep your photographic subjects happy with snacks and warm cider between takes. Smiling faces mean fantastic portraits.

For more information about holiday portraits, check out the following resources:

• 16 Christmas Photography Tips
• Perfect Christmas Portraits
• Christmas Photo Card Ideas
• Three Holiday Portrait Tips

Creative Christmas Portrait Ideas

Tis the season to be jolly, so why let something as joyful and intimate as a Christmas portrait ruin all the fun? Everyone wants the perfect Christmas photograph to accompany cards or holiday newsletters, but as time goes by, coming up with innovative ideas can become a real challenge. If you're at a loss for this year's perfect family holiday portrait, take a look at some ideas other people have perfected for Christmas photos.

Family Photos

Gather the family and get ready to capture the abundance of holiday cheer. From tried and true traditional shots to complete nonconformity, the following ideas will get everyone in the holiday spirit and bring happiness to friends and family that live far away:

• A Wreath of Smiles: Combine a little bit of tradition with a whole lot of fun. Position the family behind a large holiday wreath and shoot several images of everyone looking through its center. Mix it up with goofy faces or sweet smiles.
• Bucking Tradition: Bring a touch of warmth to the holidays by choosing a beach scene for your Christmas portraits. Build a "snowman" out of sand, wear swimsuits and Santa hats or write "Merry Christmas" near the surf while everyone gathers around. If you don't live near a beach, plan a summer trip and use the idea for next year.
• Evergreen Moments: Share the magic of a Christmas tree by making it the centerpiece of your holiday portraits. Outdoors, capture dad and the kids hauling the tree through a snowy field, or photograph the family's tree-trimming festivities indoors.

Babies and Children

Some of the most adorable Christmas portrait ideas center on the youngest members of the family. Who can resist the smiling face of beautiful baby or a group of children? For holiday images that appeal to the masses, consider portraits of infants and children that make your little ones the stars of the show.

• All Aglow: Light up the excitement on your children's faces with a few well-placed candles or other diffused light sources. In a dark room or outdoors after sunset, have the kids gather around a lone Christmas candle that casts a soft glow on their faces. If you prefer a little more magic, place a soft, diffused light in the bottom of a large, colorfully-wrapped gift box and photograph the children looking inside. Santa hats are optional.
• True Gifts: Break out the gift boxes, ribbons, paper and bows. If you have a baby or toddlers, place them in beautifully wrapped Christmas boxes surrounded by soft wrapping tissue. Photographed under the tree, these images send a clear message about the true spirit of the holidays. The sheer cuteness of the concept is an extra bonus.
• Words and Letters: Dress the kids up in their finest Christmas outfits and photograph them holding letters or words that spell out holiday cheer. For a large brood, consider the traditional "Merry Christmas" while a simple "joy" or "Noel" works well with smaller groups.

Homemade Backdrops

If you are shooting your Christmas portraits at home, selecting Christmas photo backdrops may be no more difficult than a trip to the living room. Your home can provide backdrops that are more personal than those found at studio portraits, since they incorporate your personal belongings and space.  Some popular homemade Christmas photography background ideas include:

Christmas Tree

What could be more traditional than a holiday portrait in front of an elaborately decorated Christmas tree?  When posing in front of the tree, make sure your photo subjects don't block special ornaments or other must-see props, such as brightly wrapped gifts.

Fireplace

If you have access to a fireplace, a trimmed mantlepiece makes a great backdrop for Christmas portraits. Decorate the fireplace with holly, garland and Christmas stockings for a traditional scene. This type of background works best for a traditional posed portrait, since unusual poses may not lend themselves to such a formal backfrop.

Window

If the weather is cooperative and you are lucky enough to have a thick blanket of snow outside, look no further than your window for a great Christmas photography backdrop. Poses in front of the window can be formal or informal. Holiday decorations such as paper snowflakes, garlands and mistletoe can also add interest and create a festive theme. This kind of backdrop works well for both individuals and small groups.

Tips For Choosing Christmas Photography Backdrops

When planning your holiday portrait session, consider who will be in the shot and the feeling you would like to convey in the photo.  In addition, consider how many subjects will be in the photo, as this will also affect the type of backdrop you select.  A smaller number of subjects can be posed to fit onto a pre-printed background where larger groups require a bit more planning. A good rule of thumb is to allow twoand-a-half to three feet of backdrop space for each subject.  However, subjects can be stacked creatively depending on their height. Also consider your photo subjects' age when choosing your holiday photo backdrops.  Very young children and seniors don't always have the ability to pose for long periods in front of some backdrops.

Professional Backdrops

There are many types of backdrops used for holiday photography. Professional backdrops are an easy way to add the holiday spirit to your family portraits. Some examples include:

Drapes

Also known as muslin backgrounds, these plain cloth backdrops hang freely to create a textured surface behind photo subjects. They are available from professional supply companies in solid colors or patterns. For Christmas portraits, these backdrops can be found in solid colors such as red, green and white or in patterns with holiday themes. Draped backgrounds are excellent for large portraits and are easier to tote around than other types of professional backdrops. They are also useful for subjects wearing light or brightly-colored outfits, since the neutral background provides a nice contrast.

Pre-printed Backdrops

Pre-printed backdrops are used by professionals to create a portable Christmas scene. These Christmas-theme backdrops present a distinct advantage in that they can be printed with any number of holiday themes. Common backdrops include Christmas trees, outdoor winter scenes or a cozy fireplace. The disadvantage is that these backgrounds are expensive and not easily portable, so they are best suited for professional studios. They also accommodate a limited numbers of subjects, so they may not be suitable for large groups.

Use Props

Get into the Christmas spirit by dressing up your pet for his Christmas photo shoot. Pet stores and costume shops have dozens of holiday-themed getups to choose from, including:

• Santa
• Mrs. Claus
• Reindeer
• Devil
• Angel
• Elf
• Snowman

If your pet is anti-costume, then select a cute holiday-themed collar or a silly Christmas hat for him to wear. If you plan to photograph a caged pet, such as a fish, bird or reptile, then decorate his home with candy canes, wreaths, tinsel, garland or simple Christmas tree ornaments. After all, even if your pet hamster can’t don a Santa hat, there’s no reason his cage can’t get decked out for the holiday photo shoot.

Pay Attention to Background

If Fido is sporting a new Christmas sweater and a jingle bell necklace for his holiday photo, keep the background as basic as possible so as to not distract from the star subject. An uncluttered background, such as a solid colored quilt or a blanket of snow, is more visually appealing than a busy one. Plus, it keeps the photo recipient's eyes on your pretty pet.

Lighting

When shooting Christmas photos of your pet, be sure to flood the scene with natural light. You want to resist using your camera’s flash, so as to avoid pet photo flash eye. Rather, consider taking the Christmas photos of your pet outdoors. If you are limited to an indoor area, open doors and windows to allow in as much natural light as possible. If the area is still too dark, then turn on lamps and overhead lights to supplement.

Christmas Pet Photography Ideas

The ideas for cute and funny Christmas pet pictures are virtually endless. Once you master the aforementioned tips, and then apply them to these holiday photo ideas:

• Mistletoe: Set up your camera on a tripod and enable the self-timer, then jump under the mistletoe with your furry friend and smooch for the camera.
• Gifts: Take shots of your cat unwrapping gifts and playing with colorful ribbon.
• Snowman: Build a headless snowman, and then place your dog behind it, so that his head sits on top of the snowman’s shoulders.
• Nativity: Dress your pet as one of the animals found in the Nativity scene.
• Holiday lights: Dress your pet in a Santa costume and wrap him in holiday lights.
• Cat Christmas: Place your cat in front of a decorated Christmas tree in an elf costume and snap away. Then, feature the photo on your holiday greeting card with the caption: “Have a Meowy Christmas!”

Get Creative

If you have an especially uncooperative pet, don’t give up on the photo shoot. Instead, employ photo editing software to make hilarious pet Christmas cards. You can easily Photoshop a holiday hat on a stubborn dog or place a mock letter to Santa in your furbaby’s mouth. Photo editing software programs will also allow you to enhance mediocre shots of your pet. All it takes is a few mouse clicks to add funny Christmas-related captions, titles and borders that will make a holiday photo to remember.

Retrieved from "http://photography.lovetoknow.com/Christmas_Pet_Photography"

---

Christmas Pet Photography Tips

If man’s best friend is your BFF, then you’ll want to feature him prominently on your holiday greeting card. Unfortunately, pets aren’t always the perfect photo subjects. In order to capture a fetching holiday-themed picture of your four-legged friend, consider the following tips:

Preparation is Key

Whether you are shooting dogs, cats or parakeets, you’ll want to prepare for the unexpected. Make sure you have extra batteries, a tripod and plenty of pet treats. Also, do not underestimate the power of perfect timing. Don’t plan a Christmas pet photography session when your furry pal is tired or hungry. Rather, choose a time when your pet is relaxed and well-fed.

Know Your Subject

Before you volunteer to photograph your cousin’s pet snake, do some research on the animal. Don’t go into the shoot thinking that a slithering snake is going to react to a camera the same way a playful puppy would. Regardless of the type of pet, maintain a laid-back attitude. You do not want to upset or scare it, especially if you are wielding a large DSLR camera.

Children’s Portraiture Poses

There are many conventional portraiture poses that can be used for photographing children. The youthful subjects might have their heads straight forward or tilted; they might be touching their face or have their hands in their laps. Details aside, these child photography poses create a formal, classic picture.

Indoor, Forward Facing Portraits

Based on a baby’s age and level of development, his or her ability to communicate and cooperate with a photographer will vary. Control over their physical faculties will dictate how easily young children’s poses can be manipulated. For really young babies it is best to have flooring and structures for climbing and resting the babies upon to make up for their lack of control. These studio props can be cropped out in the editing process. The forward facing portrait is often used by professional studios and school photographers shooting toddlers and young school-aged children. Have the child sit on a stool or the ground and directly face the camera. With this still pose, choose a matte-board or background textile that matches the child’s attire. Once the child is comfortable, have her fold her hands in her lap and position her head so she is naturally looking into the lens. Then slightly adjust her chin down toward the ground which will open up her eyes for the camera. A gentle smile is usually used for this pose.

Indoor, Angled Portraits

In the photography business, angles and diagonals bring movement to a photo. Adding this angled “movement” to a child’s portrait spices up the forward facing pose and has the potential to invoke a more playful smile. Position the child on a stool with her shoulders at a 90 degree angle from the camera and have her turn her head toward the lens. Hands should be folded on the forward-most thigh, and a gentle smile is best.

Outdoor Portraits

Early morning and later afternoon, known as the “golden hour,” is best for natural light photography, which is a very productive light in capturing a child’s spirit. Outdoor shoots, whether in a backyard, park, or play yard give the child activities to focus on, freedom to explore, and offer many different poses and expressions. Sit the child on a park bench, swing, grassy patch, or slide and have her smile big for the camera. This pose is a bit more playful than the time-honored indoor portrait pose.

Posing with Props

Surrounding a child in flowers, sporting equipment, billowy material and/or pillows is a common way of using props. Because each child has different hobbies, tastes, and styles, it is important to talk with caregivers before the shoot. Connect with your subject during a play date or preliminary consultation to familiarize you with her personality and you’ll know what photography props to have at the ready. Children tend to be most comfortable with their own toys, but sometimes the photographer might introduce a new item that could invoke a reaction for the camera.

Not Using Child Photography Poses

The beauty of children is they’re always doing something cute, so don’t think too much—just shoot! Though plans might be made for a posed photo session, the lens loves spontaneity, and a good photographer learns to anticipate and capture a short-lived response from his subject. Children have short attention spans, and they move quickly so the use of action photography tactics might be necessary, especially if shooting a sporting activity. Because there are so many options for posing children, often the best thing to do is shoot a full series that includes posed and non-posed shots. This will help to ensure a handful of possibilities for the final image(s).

---

No matter how you choose to document children, it is imperative that they be well rested, healthy, and recently fed. It is always better to reschedule and be flexible, than to force a child into a photographic situation because she will not produce a favorable, genuine emotion which is, after all, the ultimate goal.

Best Camera Tripods for the Money 2

In order to get the most bang for your buck when purchasing a tripod, it’s important to match your needs and wants with the available merchandise. The following are some of the best camera tripods for the money:

Mini Tripods

The explosion of compact digital cameras has given rise to a cottage industry of mini tripods, including these top picks that sell for less than $50:

• Pod Bean Bag Tripod: The colorful unconventional tripod measures 3.75-inches in diameter and has a camera mount screw in the center. Basically it is a beanbag, which can be placed on any number of non-smooth surfaces to give you a steady base for your camera.
• JOBY Gorillapod Flexible Tripod: This funky tripod looks more like an alien than a photo gadget, but it performs extremely well. It comes equipped with three bendable legs than can be positioned to stand like a tripod, or even wrapped around a bar or railing to position the camera where you want it.

Traditional Size Tripods

While mini tripods work well for tiny digital cameras, if you have bulkier equipment like a digital SLR camera or a standard size camcorder, you're better off with a larger, sturdier professional quality tripod, such as these models that sell for less than $400:

• Manfrotto 190XPROB 3 Section Aluminum Pro Tripod: This is a three-section aluminum tripod from Manfrotto is one of the best selling models on the market. It weighs a mere four pounds, but provides sufficient stability for heavy cameras. Standout features include quick action leg locks and a center column that can be tilted to a complete 180 degrees, which provides great comfort when shooting in macro mode.
• Celestron Photographic/Video Tripod 93606: This particular model folds up to 27 inches and can extend up to 63 inches. It also comes with a three-way panhead with quick release plate, making it easy to pop off your camera in an instant.
• Induro Carbon 8X C-Series: These carbon fiber tripods offer the ultimate in strength, while still being lightweight and reliable performance. They’re ideal for nature and landscape photographers. Each of the tripod’s leg locks have a specially designed dust and moisture-resistant seal. In addition, each tripod features interchangeable rubber feet and stainless steel spikes. Other noteworthy features include:
  • A grooved center column, which prevents unwanted column rotation
  • Reversible center column for low angle shooting
  • Reversible tripod head mounting screw, which assures compatibility with virtually any tripod head
  • Built-in bubble level, which allows adjustment to prevent uneven pans and tripod head movements
  • Spring loaded weight hook for additional weight mounting during windy conditions

Best Camera Tripods for the Money

A tripod is an integral part of great photography. The three-legged invention keeps the camera steady and guarantees a level shot, ensuring that photos are crisp and clear, especially under low light conditions. Still, many amateur photographers dismiss the tripod because their digital cameras are extremely compact. They consider tripods equipment only professionals employ. If you’ve used a tripod in the past, you know that it can improve shots regardless of the camera’s size or the photographer’s skill level.

Heavy vs. Light

Generally speaking, the heavier your tripod, the better your photos. This is due to the fact that a tripod’s main function is to anchor the camera. Therefore, a heavy tripod offers more stability than a lighter model. This is especially true if you are shooting in windy or bumpy conditions. A heavy tripod protects a camera from vibration and other factors that can cause it to shake while you are framing your shot.

However, if you are shooting with a lightweight digital camera you’re able to get away with using a lighter tripod. If your tripod is able to adequately support your camera outdoors, in a moderate breeze, then it should suffice. What’s more, lightweight tripods offer the added bonus of being extra-portable. If your tripod is too heavy, you are more apt to leave it at home. The key is to find a tripod that is light enough to carry long distances, but not too light that it is unable to sustain the weight of your camera.

What to Look for in a Good Tripod

A good tripod should be sturdy and rigid, yet it should also set up and break down quickly. Most tripods feature quick-release hinged latches that let you open and close the legs rapidly. The latches are valuable assets when you are shooting on the run and need to extend the tripod's legs in a flash. However, they can't support as much weight as screw-type leg locks.

In addition, the bottoms of the tripod’s legs matter as well. Some tripod feet have pins or spikes that dig into the ground while others have flat bottoms with rubber pads that grip both indoor and outdoor surfaces.

Regardless of where you plan to take photos, you’ll want to purchase a tripod from a reputable manufacturer. Some of the most popular names in camera tripods include:

• Alpen Optics
• Barska
• Bogen
• Brunton
• Bushnell
• Carson
• Celestron
• LOMO
• Manfrotto
• Nikon
• Pentax
• Radian
• TeleVue
• Velbon
• Yukon
• Zhumell

5 Tips for Better Halloween Photos

Halloween is not only a time to bust out the candy; it’s also time for snap happy parents to document the transformation of their precious peanuts into ghoulish gremlins and ghastly ghosts. Not very many people realize that Halloween is the most popular picture-taking day of the year, just behind Christmas. The annual holiday is ripe with frame worthy photo opportunities. However, it is up to you to employ effective photo techniques in order to capture stellar shots. The following 5 tips for better Halloween photos will help you take the scare out of shooting everything from spooky costumes to creepy holiday decorations:

1.  Proper Lighting

Exceptional Halloween photos are especially hard to snap because most of the action takes place after dark, in low-light conditions. In order to get Mother Nature to work with you instead of against you, consider snapping the majority of your photos at dusk. This “magic hour” while the sun is setting provides just enough natural light to eliminate the need for flash, but still allows you to capture the warm glow of your jack-o-lanterns and the bright colors of your child’s costume minus the worry of underexposed shots.

Once the sun has set, use a high ISO setting of nothing less than 400. In addition, avoid using high-powered flash that can overpower a dark scene and ruin the spooky mood. Instead, use a tripod to steady your camera and diffuse your light source. Halloween is a great time to diffuse the flash on your camera with colored cellophane. Red is an excellent color to try, as it produces a glow that enhances scary shots. Also, consider reducing your camera’s shutter speed. By choosing a longer shutter speed, you will be able to allow additional light into your camera. Finally, use a larger aperture. By widening the hole in your lens, more available light will be able to stream in.

2.  Unique Composition

There’s no better holiday to experiment with unique angles than Halloween. The holiday is chock full of unparalleled photo ops. Don’t fall into the trap of taking static group shots or boring pictures of your costumed kid standing stiffly next to a scarecrow, hay bale or pumpkin. Focus on comprising shots so they tell a story on their own. Take photos of people doing things instead of simply sitting or standing around. Also, take aim at candid shots, such as:

• Kids bobbing for apples at a Halloween party
• Reaction shots as kids dump out and sift through their trick-or-treat loot
• Pets in costume
• Parade of costumed kids marching through the neighborhood

3.  Pay Attention to Detail

It’s easy to be overwhelmed with the big Halloween picture: dozens of kids running around, loads of decorations and an abundance of bright costumes, make-up and props. To make the most of the holiday photo op, look for smaller details to round out your Halloween shots. After all, October 31st is also filled with a number of smaller photo worthy moments that are just as enticing, including:

• Close-up shots of candy and other devilish desserts
• Plastic fangs in your child’s mouth
• A rainbow of glow sticks
• A painted tear on a clown’s face
• Fake cobwebs, spiders and other Halloween-themed décor
• Baby pumpkins and gourds

4.  Jack-o-Lantern Tricks

Photographing jack-o-lanterns is particularly tricky since candle-lit carved creations walk a fine line between over and underexposure. If you are planning to take an outdoor shot of your jack-o-lantern, then consider filling it with two or three candles, instead of a single light source. To capture the jack-o-lantern’s inner glow, turn off your camera’s flash so it doesn’t overpower the candlelight. Next, use a long shutter speed and experiment with different exposures until you get the impact you are looking for. If you are feeling extra daring, then rig up some ambient lighting, such as a flashlight hitting the outer hull of the pumpkin. Doing so will create dramatic lighting effects.

5.  Get Creative

Embrace the mood of all Hallow’s Eve by exercising your creativity. Instead of taking boring shots of kids in costumes, help tell a story by documenting the transformation from their first make-up application to the moment when everyone is in full costume. Also, try to have your subjects maintain the same position in each photo. The end result makes for a hilarious slideshow.

Finally, one of the best ways to inject some creativity into your Halloween photo shoots is to incorporate silhouetted shots. Take photos of people holding lit pumpkins silhouetted against the sky at dusk or have a costumed werewolf howl at the moon.

Expert Advice on Taking Better Travel Photos

The photos above won grand prize honors in a recent Fodor's photo contest, in which we asked our members to show us their very best snapshots of Alaska. We love these images by Chris Marlow and Brian Embacher so much that we will be including them in Fodor's Alaska 2009.

Our tips will help you take great photographs like these. For example, by including two human figures in the frame, the glacier image above conveys the vast scale of the Alaskan landscape. Meanwhile, the image on the right is a good example of creating your own luck and being prepared to capture spontaneous events you might not see back home. You can see more great Alaska contest photos when you visit our Alaska travel guide.

With photographer Jeff Wignall and Fodor's as your guide, memorable photographs are well within your reach. We invite you to explore our easy-to-follow tips with accompanying images—you'll be taking great photos in no time.

Exposure Time

Exposure time is really a matter of trial and error - it can be anything from a few minutes to several hours depending on the conditions.

It is worth bearing in mind that a longer exposure will produce longer star trails, but will also usually dim the brightness of the trails. The stars complete one full rotation in 24 hours, or 15 degrees every hour, but my advice is to concentrate on getting a good exposure, and not worry too much about the length of your star trails.

Start with an exposure time of 5 minutes and keep doubling it until you get a good result. Once you get close to the right exposure time, use your judgement and previous results to decide whether to increase or decrease the exposure time.

That's all there is to it. Long exposure star trail photos are technically quite easy to shoot - the hardest part is staying awake!

Composing your photo

The Earth rotates around the north and south poles, so all star trails are centred above them. If you want to position this centre point exactly you'll need to locate the North Star, Polaris (northern hemisphere) or the South Star, Sigma Octantis (southern hemisphere). Your star trails will form a circle around this point, so position it appropriately in your scene.

Long exposure star trails on their own make stunning photos, but you may also want to include some foreground objects. be sure not to place them too close though or they will be out of focus thanks to the wide aperture.

If you do use foreground objects, the ambient light will often illuminate them nicely, but if not consider using them as silhouettes instead.

Setting Up Your Equipment

You'll need a camera that can take very long exposure photos. An SLR or digital SLR with Bulb Mode is perfect.

Use the lowest ISO setting available (e.g. ISO 100) on your camera to reduce the amount of noise in your final photo.

A tripod is absolutely essential. The sturdier the better, particularly on a windy night.

Use a wide aperture to ensure you capture plenty of light. This will give you brighter trails.

Wrap insulation around your lens to prevent it fogging (particularly bad on very long exposures on cold nights). An ideal, cheap solution is to wrap socks around it and hold them in place with elastic bands.

Optionally, take a star chart or planisphere along to help you identify the North or South star (see below).

Finally, you may want to take a warm coat, a flask of coffee and a good book to while away the time!

Where To Shoot

Choose a spot as far away from any cities as possible, or at least point the camera away from that area to reduce light pollution.

Avoid shooting star trails during a full moon - the light will overpower the starlight in a matter of minutes.

Long exposure star trails will drain your camera's battery in no time, and the effect is even worse if you are using in-camera noise reduction. If possible, shoot near a power supply so that you can hook up your camera using an extension lead, or alternative take a portable power source (e.g. one that can run off a car battery).

Remember to choose a clear night or you won't actually be able to see any stars!

Experimentation is the Key

Whichever painting with light technique you try, it's very hard to nail settings such as exposure time at the first attempt, so be prepared to experiment. Digital cameras have made this exceptionally easy because you can review your results within seconds of taking the photo.

As well as experimenting with settings, why not play around in other ways, for example:

• Try using a combination of the illumination and light streak techniques in one photo.
• Use a different light source, such as a candle, match or sparkler.
• Use coloured bulbs and filters to give your light a different glow, perhaps changing colours for different parts of the scene.

Painting with Light - 'Light Streaks' Technique

For this type of painting with light you'll need a small bulb such as an LED torch or exposed torch bulb.

This time, rather than shining your light at objects, you want to keep it angled so that it is always visible by the camera. Keep it moving through your scene and be careful with the speed you move at because that will affect the light's brightness in the final image.

You can either run randomly through your scene, weaving an interesting trail as you go, or you can use the light to trace the outline of an object in your scene, which produces a really interesting 'neon sign' type effect.

Painting with Light - 'Illumination' Technique

This technique works well when there's very little natural light available, and involves using a torch with a wide beam to illuminate large areas of your scene at a time.

Open your shutter and then run around your scene, stopping to shine your torch on the objects or areas that you want illuminated for a few seconds at a time. You might need to take a few exposures to help you judge exactly how long to shine the torch for, but try to give each object in the scene roughly the same illumination time so that they all show up well.

Also remember to stay out of the line of sight of the camera when you've got the torch on or you'll leave a silhouette in front of the object you're illuminating.

Exposure Time

This is difficult to judge, so needs some experimentation. A good starting point is to carry out a 'trial run', where you start behind your camera and then run around your scene, illuminating the objects as you go. Time how long it takes you to do this, and then use that as a starting point for your exposure time.

If you have a lot of light painting to do, you may find that the illuminated areas come out too faint to make an impact. To get around this you'll need to split your scene up into logical areas and take multiple shorter exposures. These can later be combined in a software package like Photoshop, Paint Shop Pro or GIMP. To combine your exposures, stack them on top of each other in separate layers and select 'screen' as the blend mode for each.

What You'll Need

• Camera - one which allows you to take long exposures, preferably with a 'bulb mode' setting. Set it to its lowest ISO setting and use manual focusing.
• Tripod - essential for shake-free images.
• Light source - either a normal torch or a small bulb depending on which type of painting with light you want to try. If you don't have a small bulb, try unscrewing the top of your torch to reveal the bulb.

Painting with Light

Painting with light is a fascinating photography technique where you illuminate areas of a long exposure shot with a light source to create some stunning effects.

There are two main types - the first is where you shine a torch on large areas of a scene to illuminate them individually, and the second is where you use a small bulb to create interesting streaks of light. We'll look at each in turn but first let's discuss the equipment you'll need...

Nature Photographer Magazine

Nature Photographer is a “how–to” magazine,
published in print form three times a year covering all four seasons—Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. The Spring issue is published each March, the Summer each July and the Fall/Winter a larger combo issue each November. The magazine is intended for nature photographers and nature enthusiasts who range from beginners to professionals. We will help you channel your intense interest in nature photography into more successful trips into the natural world, whether they be for the day, weekend, holidays or vacations. This is the magazine for those of you interested in photographing the wilderness—in far-off destinations, in local parks or in your own backyard.


Nature photography is all about getting out there and being a part of our natural world. When in nature working on our photography, it is helpful to entirely immerse ourselves in what we are doing. To do that, we need to practice the techniques needed to consistently produce quality images and research the locations that will appeal to each of us the most. We at Nature Photographer hope to help you along that route with both the print magazine and this web site. We strive to showcase the Earth in the most beautiful light and to encourage everyone to be kind to the Earth and all life, including themselves. Our journeys will include:

    * How to photograph—from close-ups to wildlife to grand landscapes and seascapes.
    * How to use specialized equipment.
    * Detailed natural history information.
    * Field techniques.
    * New product information and equipment reviews.


If you are having problems finding us at your favorite bookstore, try a subscription for future issues (Go to Subscriptions) or go to the back issues order to order the current issue and any other past issues (Go to Back Issues)

Join our editors and other field contributors in our printed magazine and on our web site by becoming a Field Contributor to Nature Photographer magazine. See who is included at Field Contributors Listing . Check our Subscriptions Page for this and other exciting new types of subscriptions that are now available.

Please Note:
Magazine subscriptions sold through web sites other than this web site (www.naturephotographermag.com) are not authorized by Nature Photographer. Please subscribe through our website to guarantee fulfillment of your subsctiption. This site is the only authorized web site for the sale of subscriptions.
Information regarding Friends of Nature Photographer: In December 2008 two unsolicited gifts spurred us to create Friends of Nature Photographer with 75% of each donation being used to provide additional magazines to bookstores and the remaining 25% of each gift being sent to organizations that plant trees around the world. You may send your gift to Nature Photographer, PO Box 220, Lubec, ME 04652. Contributions are not tax deductible. If you choose to send a donation, your support will be greatly appreciated by us, by all new readers, and by Mother Earth.

Finding The Best Wedding Photographer

Your  wedding will be something out of your fondest dreams if you plan it correctly.  This will be a day that you will want to remember for the rest of your life.  One way to be sure that you can remember this day forever is to hire a good wedding photographer.  Your wedding photographer should be able to capture this special day on film.  Here are some tips on how to get the best photographer for your wedding:

1.  Get references.  It is very important that your photographer be established in the business and have good references.  You will want to make sure that he or she has photographed weddings before and knows how to take proper photos otherwise you might as well just get someone to take snaps.  The best way to find out about a photographer is through references.  You want to make sure the photographer shows up on time and knows what to do.  This is a once in a lifetime opportunity so you want to be certain to hire a professional.

2.  Discuss outdoor options.  Make sure that your wedding photographer knows that you want some outdoor photos and is fully equipped for outdoor shooting.  Most professional photographers are well versed with indoor and outdoor lighting, but discuss this with them just to be sure.

3.  Look for venues that offer natural beauty.  Your photographer will make the most of natural beauty in the environment if you help him or her out by choosing a venue where there are lovely backdrops.  Look for venues that offer splendid backdrops for your special day.

4.  Get a photographer who will direct the wedding.  You and the groom will be overwhelmed on your wedding day.  A good photographer will be assertive enough to make sure that they get all of the right photos for you to remember everything that happened.  Look for a photographer who not only knows how to take good pictures, but also knows how to direct the scene to get the best and most memorable pictures.  You do not want to miss out on a photo opportunity because of a timid photographer.

5.  Have two photographers.  If you know a photography art student, you can offer them a chance to shoot your wedding along with the professional in black and white.  While a traditional wedding photographer will get everything picture perfect for the wedding album, and in colour, an art photographer may shoot some black and white photos that are candid and tell a story.  It is good to have both a professional photographer and an art photographer to tell the story of your wedding that you will cherish for years to come.

Digital Photography Tips That Work Fast and Easily

So you want some digital photography tips that work quick and are easy? Well, photography is not that hard to start getting good at. It's like playing an instrument. Anybody can get to a decent level but those that are very dedicated and with some talent are the ones that become great. I will try to show you how to become great.

The key for a beginner to start taking better shots is actually divided into two different keys...

1. Ultimate Control Over Your Camera and Equipment

2. Compositional Expertise

Experts have these two down pat and you as a beginner must try to develop these as best as you can. When expert photographers take photos they spend very little time composing a shot. Instead, they focus their attentions more on the message, the style, and what they want the photo to do to the viewer. That's art!

Until you get to that level, master these two aspects of photography.

Technical Expertise.
This may be the easiest part to photography. It's kind of like math. You must understand what exposures to use, what aperture, shutter speed, etc for proper exposure and such. If you don't know what those terms mean then you need to learn!

Basically, shutter speed is the device in the camera that controls the amount of time light that is let in. Aperture controls how much light is let in. So, when you take a photo the camera lets light in a certain amount of time from a certain size of an opening.

Compositional Techniques:
There are lots of compositional techniques, and honestly, a lot of these tips conflict with one another. The key is to use the compositional tip that works with the situation your in. For a sample, I'll give you three powerful and easy to implement techniques:

1. Isolate. Beginners make the mistake of trying to photography everything in a single shot. Don't. Take a simple picture with a definite subject that anybody will understand as the main object of interest. If a viewer has to ask what to look at, you have a cluttered shot.

2. Avoid the Middle. People that take photos for "memories" take shots dead center. You want photos that look nice and thus, are going to want to use the rule of thirds. Simply stated, it says to avoid the middle. Place the subject to the left or the right, top or bottom.

3. Use Lines. Many different tips come into this category of tips. Use lines to lead to the subject of interest. This can add more impact to the subject. For example, have lines on a road lead to a car far head. Also, you can use lines to set the mood. Vertical lines make shots look fast paced whereas horizontal lines make relaxing shots like the beach.

This was just a brief touch to the tips and techniques out there for taking awesome shots. The ultimate tip towards success, however, is one you are going to hate hearing: practice! Overstated but true.