Taking Great Photos

Taking photos isn't hard but taking ones that you want to last a lifetime adds a bit of challenge to the mix. Here's a list of suggestions for the next time you're ready to snap and shoot.

1. Be sure to have your camera batteries fully charged, your memory card installed, and if you have a flash, have it attached and ready to go. The best shots are usually when you're not ready. So be prepared! If you use rechargeable batteries and aren't getting enough shots in (for AA's) then try switching to Lithium batteries. They cost a few dollars more and aren't rechargeable but if you're not getting the shooting results you want, a switch might be necessary.
2. Once you're charged and fully ready, be sure to set the camera on the correct mode. If you're an amateur using Auto is all right. It's good to try using your Aperture and Priority but don't let it ruin a shot. Practice, practice, practice!
3. Make sure you have your exposure set appropriately along with your exposure. For digital camera users (especially D-SLRs) don't forget to set the exposure according to inside/outside. If you're in a rush and not thinking, you might start clicking and think you're taking good shots then move them to the computer and notice you're not as happy with the outcome. Don't fret, everything is fixable on a computer but let that be your last resort. Set the camera before you use it. If you're changing the settings or need a fast change, consider Auto.
4. The center of your subject might not necessarily be best in the center. Sometimes offsetting the subject draws you in more.
5. If you own a D-SLR invest in a flash. The flash your camera comes with typically makes images washed out, too bright, or doesn't adjust properly. Invest in a flash. $200 for a decent flash isn't unreasonable and will make all your indoor pictures look as amazing as your outdoor photos.
6. Don't be afraid to take hundreds of photos and delete them. Yes that's right. Practice makes perfect. Prepare to take hundreds of photos on your next outing to get a few really great shots.
7. The lens matters more than the camera. This is incredibly true for D-SLR camera users. If you're looking at investing in a camera, consider spending less on the body and more on the lenses.
8. Prime lenses are great but there's no zoom. If you've got a prime lens attached, don't forget a zoom if you want more variety. Or just move up closer to your subject or further away for the same effect! The simplest things are the most obvious yet often overlooked.
9. Always lock in your lenses and flash! This seems a stupid point but I've read tons on message boards of people forgetting because they're in a rush and their flash and it busts. Also be sure to put your camera strap on around your neck when you take photos. If something should happen and you let go or are distracted your camera won't fall and the lens won't break. I know someone personally that didn't do have the strap around their neck, dropped a Canon straight down on the lens and busted it. Not a huge shock, you drop your camera it's likely to break.
10. Have proper lighting. If you're inside and you can turn lamps on, do it! It's rare indoors that you can have TOO much light.
11. If you're using an adjustable flash (external) be sure to practice rotating the head of it. Bouncing off a wall is usually your best option to avoid overexposure and shadows.
12. To combat shaky hands, some lenses come with Vibration Reduction. It's a great effective tool for natural handshake but it's also expensive. If you can use a tripod go for it, save the money!
13. The best way to get an accurate white balance is buying a gray card. Most photo stores will sell you one and they should be inexpensive.
14. If you're looking at purchasing new camera equipment, check out reviews online before you do your shopping. I like Fred Miranda. Head to the reviews section and find what you want!
15. Purchasing online can be a challenge. Finding a reliable website, that isn't part of the gray market, can be tricky. If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Expect if you pay less to lose your warranty. Some people might feel it's worth saving $100 on a camera but remember if it breaks you'll have to pay to have it repaired. Be sure to check out this site which contains a list of Camera Shops along with reviews.