Today I'm sharing a piece from Ian Savage, Head of Training at Jessops. As you know, I like to dabble with photography, so here are Jessop's top five tips for taking the perfect photo for capturing every moment spent with the children this summer.
1. Child's play
Kids rarely sit still long enough for you to take the picture, but instead of resorting to bribery to get them to sit down for a photo, start photographing them on the go. Either choose your camera's sports more or select shutter priority and continuous AF. In both cases, your camera's autofocus will keep your subject in focus, even when thats a toddler wobbling around a playground on a bike with stabilisers. it really is child's play to get a good shot!
2. Get together
Whether you're enjoying a barbecue in the back garden or a walk in the park, it's a great opportunity to get some photos of everyone together. And with just a bit of planning, you can get some lovely photo memories. Before you gather your group, scout out a good spot and think about your composition. all in one long line is boring, so consider arranging them in two lines; ask some to sit, or have kids kneeling in front; or how about running towards you? Lines, by the way, don't have to be horizontal; think vertically, too, and have fun!
3. Beautiful portraits
Taking portraits outdoors means you can work with lots of lovely daylight, and at this time of year you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to stunning natural backdrops. When you position your subject, make sure they won't be squinting or pulling a face because the sun is in their eyes. Face them away from the sun - side lighting works well - and ask them to stand in a shaded area for a more flattering, less harsh light. Then all you need to do is turn the exposure mode dial to aperture-priority, foucis on the eyes and take the shot!
4. Action shots
Feeling a bit more adventurous with your photography? Then try panning. this cleaver technique gives your photos a sense of movement. Pick the point you want to take the photo and face it, but then turn to the direction the subject will be coming from. Half press the shutter button, and without moving your feet, turn smoothly to folio the subject, fully press the shutter button at your chosen point to take the photo and continue to follow the subject out of shot.
5. Childproof!
Many cameras are waterproof, sand-proof, dust-proof and even drop-proof these days - so if you want to take great shots without worrying about the kids grubby hands, or damaging your new piece of kit, consider a camera thats up to the challenge.
Jessops Recommendation
Ricoh WG-4 GPS If you need a super-tough camera to take with you on your adventures, look no further that the Ricoh WG-4 GPS. It's waterproof to 14m, shockproof to two meters, and can survive being crushed by 100kg weights: perfect if you want a camera thats safe around kids, without compromising on quality.
Mummy B xoxox
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