Summertime is in full swing which means there are even more opportunities to capture memories through photos from family vacations, backyard BBQ’s and weddings. While some of us may not be the best at handling the family camera, here are seven photo tips to keep in mind as you embrace your inner shutterbug this summer:
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Shoot A LOT – Shoot away and try to get as many pictures as you can, keeping in mind to use a big memory card. You can go back and delete the photos that didn’t come out the way you wanted them to. It’s better to have a lot of pictures to choose from, as opposed to too little or none.
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Don’t be afraid to edit – Take a really great photo that came out too dark or you’d like it in black and white? Try out a photo editing software on your computer and adjust the brightness and color options. Editing software can enhance your photos into timeless treasures, and most pre-installed versions are easy-to-use!
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Consider the lighting – If you’re outside, consider where your light is coming from. Glares can completely ruin a photo, so plan your photo smart and have the light always behind you. If you’re taking pictures at night, make sure you’re on a night setting or that your flash will work.
Related: 5 Smartphones that Could Replace Your Camera
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Set your camera’s scene mode – Scene modes can be very useful, but tend to be underutilized. The modes are preprogrammed by the camera manufacturer to automatically give the best exposure and settings for each scene, giving you the best result – so make sure to use them!
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Embrace candid’s – Although perfectly-timed and rehearsed photos are great, capturing moments that are impromptu can be extremely special. Try to snap a photo of Dad mid-grilling, or your friend in the middle of a really great laugh. These are more fun to look back at after!
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Tell a story – Remember that photography is not just about capturing smiles. Try telling a story with your photos and think outside the box. If you’re heading to the beach, tell the bigger story by snapping pictures of flip flops at the shore line, kites flying, sand castles, or sunglasses in the sand. Combine those solo shots together with your loved ones, and you’ll have a truly great memory.
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Organize and share – The best part of taking photos is being able to relive the memories. In an effort to not clutter your digital life, make sure to manage your photos in a manner that helps you spend time outside making memories instead of inside organizing them.
More from GalTime.com:
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- Summer-Proof Your Gadgets
- Creating Curb Appeal on the Cheap
- How to Safely Replace Your Technology
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Audrey McClelland is Chief Shutterbug at Woven, a free mobile app that aggregates photos from multiple online storage services (Facebook, Instagram, Picasa, Shutterfly) and safely organizes them onto your favorite mobile device.
