dSLR Dad

Best wishes to all those dSLR Dad’s in the United States.  For all of you dSLR Dad’s in other parts of the world taking the time to read my blog, make today “Big Family Meal Thursday.”

Thanksgiving is my favorite Holiday.  It’s a time to create a large and wonderful meal to share with your Family and Friends. Let today be the day that you take a little extra time and appreciate those around you.  And while you’re at it, snap a few photographs of those around you.

Today’s Holiday Photography Tip:  When you look through the viewfinder, look at what’s behind your Loved One.  If you don’t like the background, change your angle or move to the side.  This is one way to move from a snapshot to a photograph.  This will not only make the background clearer, but also help eliminate the akward piece of furniture sticking out the side of someone’s head.

For all you new dSLR Dad’s out there, here are some adapted excerpts from Erin Manning’s new book Portrait and Candid Photography Photo Workshop.

1. Turn off your flash and use a fast shutter speed (she recommends 1/250 sec or higher, I recommend at least a 1/2 stop faster for toddlers) to capture the action and produce sharper images. Newborns can move unexpectedly, and older infants and toddlers are always on the move. If the light is too low and you cannot use a fast shutter speed, try increasing your ISO.

2. Focus on the eyes, the eyes are the first place people look when viewing a portrait, so make sure the baby’s eyes are in focus in your image. To ensure sharpness, use the autofocus lock.

3.Use continuous shooting mode. Babies are often in constant movement. This is where you action photography skills come in handy. By using continuous drive mode you won’t miss any moments-between-the moments. Keep taking pictures even after you think the moment has passed.

4. Remember the details. A baby’s fingers and toes are tiny for only a short time, so don’t miss the opportunity to photograph these details. Set your camera to macro mode and get in close to fill the frame.

You can order this wonderful book at the dSLR Dad Amazon Book Store.

via PopPhotoFlash