Photography
Basic Guidelines for Taking a Picture

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Before taking any picture, you should first understand how the camera works. Kids should be sure to have their parents go through the basic functions like zoom, flash, and focus. If it's a digital camera, they may need to know basic functions like how to save and delete pictures , how to change the battery, how to back up pictures, etc. Also, parents should show kids the basics for taking care of the camera and protecting the lens. Scratches on a lens can ruin the camera and whole sets of pictures.

When taking a picture there are certain guidelines to follow and think about while aiming the camera and when snapping the photo:

Make sure there is nothing in front of the lens that will ruin your photo. Most often this is a finger or a thumb, but be sure your hair isn't hanging over the camera lens or maybe the camera strap or shirt sleeve.

Always think about lighting when taking a picture. Lighting can make a huge difference in the quality of your pictures. When indoors make sure there isn't a light bulb or lamp right behind the subject. Try to get light behind the camera that is then lighting up the subject. Same goes for outdoors, you don't want the sun right behind your subject.

Pay attention to all that's in your photo, not just the subject. Look at what is behind and around the subject. Too much clutter or other distracting items can ruin a photo. Also, you don't want a pole sticking out of your Dad's head or trash can in your beautiful beach shot.

Move around and try different angles when taking a photograph. Also try moving closer or further away and adjusting the zoom on the camera.

Hold the camera steady. Keeping the camera steady is important to keep your photos from coming out blurry. In some cases you can use a tripod to be sure that the camera is steady while taking a photo.

Hold the camera level. It's also a good idea to hold the camera level. Skewed photos may be fun sometimes, but, in general, they are hard to look at. A tripod can help here in taking a good photo as well.

Practice and experiment. The best way to learn to take pictures is to practice.

Picture of a photographer using a tripod to keep the camera steady.

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