The variety of the outdoors presents the photographer with a wide range of subjects.
The availability of quality, reasonably priced digital cameras has sparked a new interest in photography. In addition to shooting simple candid shots of family and friends, people are taking their cameras outside to find a wider range of subjects. Unlike shooting in a studio, shooting outdoors can be unpredictable due to changing light and weather conditions. Capturing quality outdoor images is a great challenge for photographers of all skill levels.
Basic Tools
According to "Outdoor Photographer" magazine, one of the most frequently repeated pieces of advice for outdoor photography is to use a tripod. Tripods steady the camera, and allow the photographer to carefully set up the shot. In addition, outdoor photographers should carry a good flash and a light reflector; you can use a plain white sheet for large areas, or a few 3-by-5 index cards taped together for smaller scenes.
Outdoor Portraits
Outdoor portraits are common for special events like family reunions, senior pictures or weddings. To make the most of your shots, keep a few simple guidelines in mind. James Pickett, in an article on the Digital Photography School website, suggests keeping your focus on the eyes of your subjects. The eyes are the most expressive parts of the face, and focusing on them puts the skin in a flattering softer focus. Avoid shooting in direct sunlight, if possible; it causes your subjects to squint and produces harsh shadows. Instead, opt for twilight or a cloudy day for naturally diffused light. Don't forget to check the background of your portraits for signs, power lines and other unattractive elements.
Nature Shots
Outdoor photography often calls to mind majestic nature scenes. A simple walk in the woods can produce hundreds of interesting subjects to photograph. Animal shots are impressive, but often hard to capture well. "Outdoor Photographer" suggests making use of the predictive focus feature on your camera, which automatically tracks and focuses on a moving target in your shot. For plants and landscape shots, experiment with different camera angles by moving your body; lie down to get close to an unusual flower, or shoot a tide pool by standing over it.
Urban Settings
Outdoor photography doesn't just mean nature; you can get some great photos in the city. Urban photography requires the photographer to be alert at all times, since the people, cars and objects are constantly moving and changing. Photographer Anne Darling suggests talking to people on the street who interest you and asking politely if you can take their picture. She also suggests walking against the normal flow of traffic to look for unusual subjects.
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