How to Take Beautiful Photographs

by Ron Bigelow

As photographers, we just love creating great images. That is why we spent so much on our cameras. Of course, just having a camera isn't enough. We also need some photographic skills. Where should we start? Which skills will help us the most? Well, the following seven skills are a great way to get starting capturing those dynamic images that will stand out from all the rest.

Start with a Grabber

Have you ever glimpsed a beautiful sunset and immediately stopped whatever you were doing to get a long glance at the sunset? Have you ever seen a gorgeous flower and moved in close to get a better look? If the answer is yes, you have experienced a grabber. A grabber is an object that grabs your attention.

The best way to create a powerful image is to start with a grabber. When a subject is strong enough to draw your attention, it is very likely that an image of that subject will also draw the attention of a viewer of the image. On the other hand, when a subject doesn't draw your attention, it is not very likely that an image of that subject will hold the attention of a viewer for very long.

Use the Light

The proper light can make or break an image. So, it is necessary to start with the best light for the subject being photographed. Now, the light that is best for a subject depends on the subject. The light that occurs during the half hour after sunrise or the half hour before sunset (this time is often called the magic hour) is a soft, warm light that produces great landscape images. Flowers photograph best on overcast days. Foggy days can often produce images with a dreamy feel. Last, midday light can be used to create images with a harsh feel.

Composition

Composition consists of how the objects in an image are arranged with respect to each other. Now, there are various ways to compose an image. One of the most popular ways is called the rule of thirds. The rule of thirds states that an image should be divided into thirds both vertically and horizontally. The subject of the photo should be placed at one of the intersections of the dividing lines.

The rule of thirds is a great way to create images that appear dynamic and balanced. Conversely, when subjects are placed at the center of an image, the result is often an image with a very static feel. Placing subjects at other locations can create images that seem unbalanced or uneven.

Closer is Better

When a photographer moves in closer, the main subject of the image is emphasized. Moving in closer also gets rid of detail along the edges of an image that can, otherwise, be distracting.

Strong Colors

Strong colors grab people's attention. The verdant green in springtime, the blue of a deep mountain lake, or the intense red of a chili pepper grab our attention. Good photographers know how to use this to create strong images. Strong colors can be used in a couple of ways. The first way is to find scenes or subjects with strong colors. For instance, a scene of brightly colored fall leaves would be a good example of this. The second way is to photograph subjects with light that has a strong color cast (such as the light that occurs during a great sunset).

Polarizers Can Improve Images

Consider using a polarizer filter. A polarizer can reduce glare and increase the saturation of the colors in an image.

Tripod

Nothing ruins a great image faster than a blurry look caused by camera shake. So, whenever possible, use a tripod in order to get beautiful, sharp images.

In Summation

Developing these seven skills can help you create images that you will be delighted to hang on your wall for all to enjoy. Want to learn the secrets to taking dynamic images. To get started, all you need to do is visit Ron's free site at Ron Bigelow Photography.