Take a great photo every time

From the Community…

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  Posted by Susan Tue Jun 30, 2009 7:50pm PDT

  #3 says have the subject face the sunlight and the photographer's back to the sun. I understand the reasoning behind that, but then the subject's face is too washed out by the sun and they have to squint and the picture is never flattering. I try to avoid pictures in bright sunlight and try to take them on overcast days but still light out.

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  Posted by Mrs. Carol B Wed Jul 1, 2009 12:52am PDT

  Very interesting post. Thanks.

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  Posted by hobbit Wed Jul 1, 2009 6:58am PDT

  Avoid taking pictures btw 11:30am and 2:30 pm when the sunlight is harshest. Otherwise you subject will appear washed out. Don't have your subject facing directly into the sun or they will squint, shoot wit the sun off to the side or in the shade if you can mange it.

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  Posted by Jett Wed Jul 1, 2009 8:03am PDT

  I agree with Hobbit. When the sun is directly overhead, there won't be any shadows and everything in the photo will appear flat (no dimension). So early-mid morning and mid-late afternoon are the best times to take photos, especially for outdoor weddings. Ever notice those long shadows that appear in the evening? Early evening light in the spring, summer, and fall is beautiful.

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  Posted by Jason Wed Jul 1, 2009 9:02am PDT

  A little secret about photography....

  A great photographer is only great because they never show their bad shots!!!

  Something to think about.

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  Posted by Andygirl Wed Jul 1, 2009 6:16pm PDT

  I disagree. lovely pictures can come with the sun slightly behind the subject (like at sunset). and auto mode? I constantly switch modes for the best shot possible. and you can get interesting angles if you hold the camera in unexpected positions. get down low or hold it up high, for example. why be boring? if you're shooting in good light, make sure your flash is off and let the magic happen. you may find something unexpected and interesting.

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  Posted by Lucky Wed Jul 1, 2009 8:58pm PDT

  You know what's really great? Film. Pictures look so much better when you don't get to scrutinize them right away. :D

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  Posted by BD Thu Jul 2, 2009 4:10pm PDT

  "1. Make sure the camera is on Auto mode to get the best exposure."

  If you think putting your camera on Auto mode is going to get you a great photo every time, you are sadly mistaken. No wonder I don't read Popular Photography.

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