Some people may think that turning the camera toward your- self is the height of narcissism, but sometimes you need a shot, and no one is around to take it for you. These are the times when it’s good to know how to shoot a self-portrait. Start with the basics by making sure your hair is combed, col- lar is down, shirt is clean, and your teeth are free from spinach (and lipstick!). Then find a location with a pleasing, unclut- tered background. Put the camera on a tripod and set the focus as close to the area where you’ll be standing or sitting and activate the self timer. If the room is too dim for an exist- ing light portrait, try using “slow-synchro” flash (see “Flash Modes” in Chapter 2 for more information). This type of flash provides enough illumination for a good portrait, but slows the shutter enough to record the ambient light in the room. Position yourself where you had focused the camera and look directly into the lens. Don’t forget to smile. Self-portraits are also perfect for experimenting with different “looks” that might make you feel more self conscious when someone else is behind the camera. You can try different expressions and poses, and erase the bad ones. The world will never know the difference.
Take Interesting Kid Shots
Children are a challenge for digital cameras, primarily because of shutter lag. In short, kids move faster than digicams can react. But with a few adjustments, you can capture excellent images that you’ll cherish for years. One of the most important adjustments, regardless of the type of camera you’re using, is to get down to kid level when shoot- ing. This is “hands and knees” photography at its best. And if you need to, get on your belly for just the right angle. By doing so, your shots will instantly become more engaging. Next, get close. Then get closer. This may seem impossible at times with subjects who move so fast, but if you want great shots, then you’ve got to keep your subjects within range. Now turn on the flash, regardless of whether you’re indoors or out. Not only will this provide even illumination, but flash helps “freeze” action, and you’ll need all the help you can get in this category. Finally, use the “focus lock” technique described in the practi- cal example “Capturing the Decisive Moment” in Chapter 2. By doing so, you can reduce shutter lag and increase your per- centage of good shots. Some of the most rewarding pictures you’ll ever record will be of children. Like the child-rearing process itself, kid photogra- phy requires patience. But the results far surpass the effort.
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