Photo courtesy of Thinkstock
Has your fabulous holiday been let down by the photographs? I know the disappointment of returning home to scroll through a bunch of blurry, badly framed snaps which were supposed to capture the magical trip of a lifetime. I have a few tips that should transform your photos into something you will want to print off and hang on your wall, not just post on Instagram.
I find it pays to take your time - that is unless you just want to capture a goofy spontaneous moment with your significant other. It is important to select and think about what you find interesting in the scene before you frame it or press the button. Walk around and look at the things from different angles until you get the best one.
Once you find a frame that works, actually look at what you see in the viewfinder - all of it. I find that people click away without actually "seeing," hoping for the best. A good photographer has steel in their veins and will wait until they have the best shot.
Photobombing aside, there is nothing worse than having an interesting and evocative shot ruined by a passing bus or a lamppost sprouting from your friend's head.
Do not just point and snap directly ahead of you. I like to experiment with different angles and heights. Digital photography allows you plenty of second and third chances to get the drama to an image just right. So don't be self conscious, stand on a bench, crouch on the ground until you get the most interesting angle.
I have found also that people tend to stand back from the most interesting object in the frame, loosing visual impact in the muddle of medium and long shot detail. Sure, you can use a zoom or crop later, but a loss in resolution and clarity can ruin a good photo. So step right up and take the shot.
Start looking at the light around you, how it falls and at how intense is it. Things may seem sharpest at midday but most professional photographers prefer mornings and afternoons to get the greatest depth to an image. Midday light can flatten and bleach out a scene but it does enhance the blueness of the ocean.
To get a high resolution in low light situations, I always increase the ISO so that you get more information and detail in the shot. Also try a multiple burst of one image to increase the chances of a half way decent shot to chose from.
Become aware of the colour palette in your shot. It is important for things to stand out from their background. On an overcast day I try to have sharp saturated colours in frame as they can perk up an otherwise dull picture. I love colour so will often select a picture around the mix of colours and tones.
To step things up a little try changing your lens to fit the situation, long shot, mid range and close up views of the same scene can give you something to play with when you come to edit.
And last but not least, remember that you are telling a story so make sure the essential details of the image are there, the name of a place or setting that can bring back so many fun memories.
I have learned that a good photograph comes from being in the moment and really looking at what is right around you. It also involves being brave enough to play around and give anything a go to create an object that is more than just a captured memory.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
