Becoming an AMAZING photographer is easier than you think, thanks to these little-known Photography Tips and Tricks for your phone and DSLR!
Photography Tips and Tricks
Are you ready to take your photos to the next level? These Photography Tips and Tricks will show you everything you need to know!
Whether you take photos on your phone, are a beginner with your DSLR, or are a seasoned photographer… these simple tips will supercharge your photography skills right away!
Plus… I’ve even included some fun photo gift ideas for you, too! So are you ready to get creative with your photos? Here’s what you need to do…
My Top Pick for a DSLR: Canon Rebel
This is the camera I use for ALL of my blog’s photography, and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! Seriously… I’m obsessed!
My Favorite Camera Lenses
Almost all Canon Rebels will come with a 18-55mm lens, also referred to as the kit lens.
This is an essential lens, so if you don’t have one for some reason… you’ll definitely want to pick one up. It will be a great go-to lens for so many different situations, especially travel and scenery shots.
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens
To go along with your Canon Rebel, you’ll want a 50mm f/1.8 lens as well.
These lenses don’t come with the kits, so it will be an add on. It’s the most affordable option for adding a ton of functionality to your camera.
You’ll use this a lot when creating those gorgeous crisp images with blurred backgrounds. It’s great for portraits, and also close-ups of food when you want to blur something out a bit in the back for a fun effect.
It’s so small and lightweight to tote around, too!
This is the lens I use for sharp, crisp images and a blurred background. It’s also the lens you’ll want to create those gorgeous bokeh pictures (with the blurred lights in the background).
Bokeh photography example that I used this lens to sh*ot…
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens
After I had owned my rebel for a few years, I wanted to take my photography to the next level. I realized I needed a lens that could capture every itty bitty detail in a picture. I’m talking… little grains of salt or sugar on a food item, drops of dew on a flower… that kind of detail.
I did so much research, and found this macro lens… my absolute go-to detail lens that I use ALL the time now. It does such an incredible job of picking up even the tiniest specs and details, and you’ll end up with gorgeous, crisp, clear images!
It’s absolutely worth the investment… I love it!
My Favorite Photo Accessories
Camera Tripod
Why a tripod? For clearer pictures.
A tripod and remote will take your pictures to the next level right away! I know, I know… it may seem like it’s not a necessity, but one of my biggest regrets is not using a tripod and remote sooner.
The first day I did, I was AMAZED at how crystal clear my photos were. Goodbye, camera blur!
Tripods are easy to work with, and will keep your camera stable.
Wireless Remote Control
In addition to the tripod, after selecting a quality camera and lens combination + getting a tripod, the next most important step to ensuring picture clarity is using a wireless remote control for your camera.
This is the exact remote I have and use… it’s inexpensive and a total game changer for clear photos. LOVE it!
Using the Wireless Remote Control is simple. After mounting your Canon to the Amazon Basics Tripod, select the “Self-timer: 10sec/Remote control” setting on your Canon. This will enable use of the highly affordable Amazon Basics Wireless Remote Control.
Just imagine your camera mounted on a tripod and this remote control in your hands. You have just successfully reduced camera movement, allowing for optimal picture clarity.
Score!
Portable Photography Reflector
Portable Photography Reflectors are a must-have, and they’re super cheap! Every photographer needs at least one good set of reflectors.
A set often includes white, silver, gold, black, and sheer!
I use my sheer all the time to reduce glare and filter bright sunny light coming in through the window in the afternoon. Then I use the white to bounce back light on my subject, or the gold or silver to add gorgeous tones to the hues of the object.
Indoor Photography Natural Light Kit
Natural light is always my first choice, but on rainy days or evenings, I’ve used this Natural Light Kit to duplicate natural light in a dark indoor setting, and it’s been a lifesaver!
More Photography Tips and Tricks
Practice, Practice, Practice!
The first step to taking better pictures is simply to practice!
Like… every day!
If you’re intimidated or overwhelmed by your camera, just make a point to start playing around with the different settings and experimenting each and every day.
Try new angles, try new locations, just try something! You’ll improve and become more and more confident each day!
Lighting is Key!
There’s no substitute for good lighting, and it can make or break a photo.
If you’re taking pictures of food, wait to take them until the natural lighting is optimal during the day. They’ll turn out so much prettier than when taking inside at night. If possible, move whatever it is you’re photographing outside.
If the weather doesn’t permit, take your photos as close to a window or sliding glass door as possible to soak up as much gorgeous natural light as you can!
Example: the following picture was taken indoors next to the window…
Props are Pretty!
When setting up the star of your photo sh*ot, don’t forget to include some pretty props underneath, on the side, and in the background.
They’ll add color, depth, texture, and make for some pretty pictures!
1-2-3-Hold-Your-Breath!
Another simple tip that I put into practice each days is holding my breath. Right before I’m ready to snap the shot, I just hold my breath to stabilize myself and keep the shot as crisp as can be.
It’s such a simple way to cut down on blur.
Another option is to take in a deep breath, then exhale halfway and hold your breath before taking the shot.
Phone Camera Photography Tricks
Did you leave home without your camera? These little-known tips and tricks will help you make the most of the pictures you take from your phone!
Photography Tips for Beginners
Begin improving your photography skills today with these 20 Photography Tips for Beginners!
Photographing Babies and Kids
Shutter Huggers
If you’ll be photographing babies or kids, Shutter Huggers are an absolute must-have! Basically, they’re cute little stuffed animals that can slip right around your lens!
So while you’re walking around snapping those adorable photos, the kids will see the cutest little animal flopping around and smiling back at them!
This is seriously my favorite trick to get kids to Smile!
How to Photograph and Create 3-D Photo Cards
Do you want your cards to really stand out? Take a minute to go check out this crazy-cool photography trick for making 3-D Photo Cards!
Kid Photo Taking Tips for Taking Cute Kid Photos
Are you ready to take your photography of babies and kids to the next level?
These tried and true tips from professional photographers and photo-crazed moms will have you snapping the CUTEST photos in no time!
Margo said: “I usually say something like… Daddy’s wearing Barbie underwear!”
Patti said: “Put a twinkling Christmas necklace on yourself (cheap at Walgreens) and don’t switch on the battery to light it until you’re ready to snap the photo. Ask them to look at your necklace and be ready to sh*ot. You can also put an animated toy on the table near you so that the children will watch it… be sure not to activate it until you’re ready to snap the photo. (I’m a photographer)”
Melody said: “I started my own little photography business a couple of years ago and I have found something that works well for me. If using a digital camera, go ahead and snap a picture (whether they are looking at you or not). Then ask them if they want to see the picture? If they do, show it to them and then say… “Ok, do you want to take another one and I’ll show that one to you too?” I’ve found most kids, (girls in particular) love to see the pictures on the screen and will usually give a huge smile for the next picture. (Tip ~ make sure you are very excited when you show them the picture and compliment how cute they are. I know that would work for me too!)”
Shannon said: “I’m a photographer…. Use props and don’t expect perfection. I saw a cute photo sh*ot where the kids decorated Christmas cookies and got messy. They were more than willing to pose with their completed creations! It was really cute!!”
Jolene said: “A photographer friend of mine sprayed whip cream in his kids mouths and caught the giggle faces… it’s honestly one of my all time fave pics of his kids!!!”
Christy said: “Sh*ot in sports mode.”
Kirsten said: “If you’re using digital, put the camera on the fast shutter so that you can take MANY pics within seconds. I am sure you can get one with both looking and smiling!”
Stacy said: “Put something they like to look at on the camera or on your head! Make quick funny noises that grab their attention and get them to look your way. :D”
Lauren said: “Blow bubbles at them.”
Debbie said: “Let them feed on ice cream :D”
Stephanie said: “If you’re doing the picture yourself at home, put something really interesting on the TV and then take some shots from the side or on your belly in front of them? You could sit them on your couch and use a festive fabric as a backdrop and then crop around it so you don’t see the furniture.”
Jenel said: “Play their favorite show on a portable DVD player behind the Camera!! Fast forward to their favorite part and voila… you have a happy child. It works like a charm!”
Nicole said: “I bribed mine with M&M’s. They got one M&M every time they sat still and smiled pretty for the camera. I got lots of good pics that way!”
Amber said: “One person positions kids, while the other instantly begins snapping pictures. Have fun props and be silly! Outside pictures work splendidly! Be flexible! Make sure they are fed and rested! This is how we do it with our 5!!”
Sonia said: “For the 3-4 year olds, I use a monkey or chicken beanie baby on my head. I make the biggest fool of myself, but it’s so worth it. And their giggles are hilarious! It’s a no-fail trick that I’ve used for several years. For the littler ones, I keep my voice animated and use “excitement” sounds. For outdoor sessions, I have an assistant blow bubbles. Indoor sessions, I use a balloon, ball, or keys.”
Jenny said: “If it becomes obvious that you aren’t going to be able to get a shot where both kids are cooperating, you can always take individual pictures of them. Then choose a collage layout for your photo cards. I’ve had to go with that for a couple of years!”
Tessa said: “Play peek-a-boo. Have someone take the pictures for you, and you hide behind the photographer and play with them. It works wonders and captures the most real smiles, especially when they are that little.”
Seasyn said: “Puppets, instruments like tambourine , maraca etc. and for some reason saying “yayyyy” works for babies and toddlers ;)”
Lindsay said: “Present something new and take a photo of their instant reaction! Candid is best and genuine.”
Stacy said: “I love those shots where they are interacting and not necessarily looking at the camera. My favorite picture of my daughter is one of her reaching for an ornament on the tree.”
Donna said: “I get my best pictures by asking the kid and parent to look at each other, or asking the kids to look at each other. They almost always crack up, or have such a look of pure love that it’s priceless. With siblings, I also have success by asking them to tickle each other.”
Maura said: “To me the cutest photos are the spontaneous ones. So give them a favorite toy and let them go. I am not a big fan of posed photos.”
Renee said: “You can try and try for the “perfect” picture, but when they are older you will look back and appreciate the pics where their personalities shine through.”
And finally, frugal friend Kimberly just suggested that you: “Pray, LOL!” 😉
Fun Photo Gift Ideas + Photo Crafts
Got a photographer or picture-lover on your gift list? These creative ideas make the perfect birthday presents or Christmas gifts for photographers!
How to Make Photo Coasters
These easy DIY Photo Coasters start with a simple tile, and transform into sweet keepsakes that make great thrifty gifts!
DIY Marble Magnets Tutorial
These Marble Magnets are such a cinch to create, and make the cutest statement on any fridge or file cabinet. Or give some as fun little gifts!
Easy DIY Photo Ornaments
These Photo Ornaments make such a statement on your Christmas tree, and also make super-cute gifts for grandparents!
Photowall Wall Murals
Mixbook Photo Books
Mpix Photo Prints, Books & Canvases
More Creative Crafting Inspiration
Fun Crafts To Do at Home
There are Crafts for every season, holiday, and occasion ~ perfect for both kids and adults! So many of these ideas make great homemade gifts, too!
More Creative Gift Giving Inspiration
The Ultimate List of Gifts in a Jar (101 ideas)
Spoil your friends, family, and teachers this year with some sweet Homemade gifts… made with love!
More Frugal Gift Ideas
From unique birthday gifts to hilarious stocking stuffers, and sweet keepsakes to romantic surprise gifts, there’s something fun for everyone! Finding the perfect gift has never been so fun!
I’ve included creative ideas for Dad, Boyfriends, Kids, Teen Girls, Teen Boys, Grandpa, Grandma, Teachers, Coworkers, Foodies, Coffee Lovers, Dogs and more!
So do you have any favorite Photography Tips or Tricks… or fun Photo Gift Ideas?
Leave a comment & share!
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