Many factors are to be considered but professional photographers, photo editors and jury members on photo competitions agree that what makes a compelling image is a unique perspective on the subject, sharpness and good composition. How to create a good composition? Keep it simple! Isolate your subject by getting rid of distracting elements, determine your source of light and use the elements of design: lines, pattern, shape and texture.
Composition, exposure, shutter speed, ISO, aperture, opening up, spotlighting, centre-weighted meter: you might be familiar with some of these terms but it’s not always obvious how to adjust your camera accordingly. I offer half-day and multi-days workshops to help you understand and practice the fundamentals of photography. Once you master the basics, you’ll be able to take manual control of your camera and get better results.
All my workshops are given in the field for a hands-on experience. Get in touch so we can arrange for a workshop.
Three elements constitute the triangle of exposure: aperture, shutter speed and ISO:
Aperture (f/N): light passing through the lens
Shutter speed: how long the shutter stays open
ISO: image sensor’s sensitivity to light
A small aperture (i.e. f/16) gives a deep depth of field and is usually used for landscape.
A fast shutter speed (i.e. 1/1000 sec) is used to freeze motion, like birds in flight or action shots. It also gives a shallow depth of field.
A slow shutter speed (i.e. 1/4 sec) is great for motion blur like milky water effect or rain streaks. Slow shutter speed is also used for night photography or poorly lit areas. In any case, a tripod is highly recommended for long exposures.
Before you adjust the aperture, shutter speed and ISO on your camera, you need to ask yourself: What effect do I wish to create? What is the mood of my image? What am I trying to tell?
Use the light meter in your camera to help you get the proper exposure. Light is measured in Exposure Value (EV) and typically displays in cameras from - 3 EV to + 3 EV
-3 _____ -2 _____ -1 _____ ∆ _____ 1 _____ 2 _____ 3
under exposed correct expo. over exposed
Once you’ve taken your shot, check the histogram and readjust your exposure if necessary.
Time to practice. Let me know how it goes!
Composition can be daunting. The good news is you can learn about it and get better with time and practice!
When I’m in the field, I always look for interesting shapes, patterns, lines and texture. Once I find a potential subject, I evaluate the intensity of the light, its direction and the need to use filters or not. I identify distracting elements, determine my focal point and move around to find my composition. I establish the depth of field, what should be in focus and which lens to use. Then I set up my tripod, which is essential in order to get sharp images. After taking my shot, I check the histogram and the clarity of my image on the back screen. From there I can adjust my composition accordingly. I find that seeing my image on the small screen tells me right away if the composition is good or not.
I believe that a poor image cannot be fixed with a software so I prefer to take the time to compose my images while I am in the field. I also prefer to spend my time outside rather than in front of my computer!
If you’re ready to learn how to get better images, sign up for an upcoming workshop or ask for a private workshop.
Just added 3 workshops in English and 3 in French, all in the Comox Valley, and on Saturdays afternoon.
Learn how to use your camera on manual mode
Learn about exposure, depth of field, focus, and key elements of composition
Use technical and creative elements together to improve your images
Get more confident with your camera and your skills
Get more one-on-one time by being part of a small group of 5 participants
Take your newly acquired knowledge to your next trip
