If you are an aspiring photographer, or just take snapshots of family on weekends, you often wonder why photographs captured by a Professional Photographer are so much better. I will be the first to say that you will not become a great photographer overnight. It takes more than just an article to all-of-a-sudden turn from a point-and-shooter into someone who's photographs adorn the walls of a Gallery. But, there are some very basic things that you can do to very quickly improve your photographs. Your approach to photography will have to change eventually, to improve, and I hope to give you some keys through this article to get you well on your way.
Auto is Great, but More Control is Better!
If there is one thing that will make your photography better right away, is a better understanding of light. Yes, It take years for a professional to master light, but there are some very simple concepts to keep in mind, when shooting, and you will be rewarded. Any time you shoot outside, the sun will be there, unless you are shooting at night. Most photography occurs during day, so let's talk about it. Sun is our best friend, and worst enemy. It has the power to render beautiful colors, and take them away altogether. For fail-safe images best times to shoot are early and late in the day, when the sun is fairly low in the sky. Shoot at high noon, and you will be rewarded with washed out images more often than not. Try this: shoot the same scene, with the same camera settings, about an hour or two apart from early in the morning to close to sunset. Look at the images, and you will understand what I am talking about. To make the sun your friend, keep the light behind you, as much as you can for great portraits, architecture shots, and landscapes. On overcast days, the sky is a giant diffuser, which gives you soft even light, great for portraits and macro photography. It allows you to shoot around the clock, and contrary to popular belief will reward you with some good photographs. One final word on light. Use flash. You can manually turn it on, and use it even during daytime. Your portraits will definitely turn out better, because the flash will offer just enough light to squash unsightly shadows, and soften details.
Imitation is the Sincerest Form of Flattery
Examine other people's work closely. Nothing makes you better than actually seeing images shot by pros, and the desire which they invoke in you. There will be elements common to all good images. Take your time with examining the images, and identify the elements that draw your eye. The same elements will work for you. There are many advanced techniques which make professionals stand out from the rest. With time you will be able to achieve similar results. Remember, it is not the camera that creates a photograph, it is the photographer, so do not think that you have to have a professional camera to achieve similar results.