Avoid the “point-and-shoot” mentality!

Shelton Muller reveals the reasons why your photographs should take a moment when you take a moment…

Take a moment to think each image through…

Today’s compact cameras are described as “point and shoot” cameras, and while true, it must be remembered that they describe the camera’s functionality and not necessarily the best way to take pictures. Rarely is “point and shoot” the best way to take a picture.

The “Point and shoot” approach to your precious photographs is the kind of approach that usually ends up in disappointing pictures. Far too often, potentially good photographs are lost because the photographer has taken the easy way out. Lets look at some examples.

We often take photographs because something we’ve seen has grabbed our attention. This is especially true when traveling. The easiest approach is to grab your camera and take the picture – without moving, without composing, without taking a few brief seconds to ask yourself why you even wanted to take the picture. If it is a picture of a person why not move closer or zoom in a little, filling the frame with the subject and removing unwanted distractions? Taking just a brief a moment – literally a few seconds – can often make the difference between a good photograph and one that disappoints.

Family gatherings, weddings and other occasions offer very important photo opportunities. As things happen, we merrily fire away, taking pictures of family and friends without actually taking control of the moment. Sure, candid pictures often capture the real personality of people, but there are times when this isn’t possible. Neither may it be the desired effect. If you’re taking a photograph of the bride and groom, make sure they are looking at you, not others in the crowd who are also taking pictures. Move a little closer and politely ask for their attention. If they are standing, compose the photograph vertically, placing the couple’s faces in the top third of the photograph. Also, as with all photographs of more than one person, ensure there is not too much empty space between their heads. Ask them to cuddle up, bringing their faces together and then fill the frame with only these people. Remove unwanted elements like tables and empty plates, beer bottles and handbags by moving a little closer or zooming in if your compact is equipped to do so. (Remember though that compacts can usually focus no closer than about one metre or so.) Don’t always take your picture from where you happen to be. Find the most complimentary vantage point.

Yes, these considerations may take a moment to do, but the photograph will be vastly improved. Taking control of your photographs is not only for the professionals, but also for all people who appreciate the value of their pictures. This is especially true in family photography. A few extra seconds and a moment’s evaluation will make a world of difference in your family snaps.

Do: Take a moment to compose your photograph.

Do: Take control of your subject.

Do: Fill the Frame with only your subjects.

Don’t: Put faces dead center in the frame.

Don’t: have too much unnecessary space around your subject.

Don’t: Include unnecessary distractions.

Shelton Muller can be contacted at shelton@total-image.com.au

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• Composing better pictures
• Using the zoom in your compact digital camera
• Photography tips: why you should use zoom
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