Memories last a lifetime, so make sure you don’t forget occasions worth remembering by taking great photos of your friends and neighbors at your next shindig. From capricious candid shots to the rules of using a flash, learn how to capture the moments in time that mean the most to you.
You don’t have to enroll in photography classes to learn how to snap great pictures. All you need is a camera (even a good smart phone with built-in camera will do) and a little know-how. Just follow these guidelines for frame-worthy photos:
Don’t forget the background
From balloons and flowers to elegantly-arranged hors d’oeuvre tables, truly depict the ambiance of an event by taking great photos of all the elements. Jennie Huettel, Mountain Mutt Photography professional, suggests:
“Before the party officially starts, be sure to take photos of the decorations, food and drinks to remember how it all looked. Once the guests get there, you won’t be thinking about the decorations anymore!”
Capture the fun and games
This is where you can take candid shots with abandon! Simply point and shoot to get your friends’ wild exploits on film. Just remember to keep the camera steady while you’re doubling over with laughter.
“Party games are always fun to document, so don’t forget your camera when your neighbor is dancing to ‘Everybody is Kung-Fu Fighting,’” Huettel says.
Turn off the flash
Most amateur photographers think that keeping the camera’s flash on at all times is a must for taking great photos. Not so, says Melissa Arlena, of Melissa Arlena Photography.
“Most on-camera flashes are way too strong. Check your manual to see if you can turn it off or turn it down. Also, find out how to adjust your ISO in your manual. Usually 400-800 is a good setting for indoors when you don’t use flash.”
You can, however, use a flash outdoors to eliminate shadows and brighten up guest’s faces. Either way, make an affair something you can remember for years to come.
Picture-Perfect Parties: Taking Great Party Photos
By Brittany Morgan
Memories last a lifetime, so make sure you don’t forget occasions worth remembering by taking great photos of your friends and neighbors at your next shindig. From capricious candid shots to the rules of using a flash, learn how to capture the moments in time that mean the most to you.
You don’t have to enroll in photography classes to learn how to snap great pictures. All you need is a camera (even a good smart phone with built-in camera will do) and a little know-how. Just follow these guidelines for frame-worthy photos:
Don’t forget the background
From balloons and flowers to elegantly-arranged hors d’oeuvre tables, truly depict the ambiance of an event by taking great photos of all the elements. Jennie Huettel, Mountain Mutt Photography professional, suggests:
“Before the party officially starts, be sure to take photos of the decorations, food and drinks to remember how it all looked. Once the guests get there, you won’t be thinking about the decorations anymore!”
Capture the fun and games
This is where you can take candid shots with abandon! Simply point and shoot to get your friends’ wild exploits on film. Just remember to keep the camera steady while you’re doubling over with laughter.
“Party games are always fun to document, so don’t forget your camera when your neighbor is dancing to ‘Everybody is Kung-Fu Fighting,’” Huettel says.
Turn off the flash
Most amateur photographers think that keeping the camera’s flash on at all times is a must for taking great photos. Not so, says Melissa Arlena, of Melissa Arlena Photography.
“Most on-camera flashes are way too strong. Check your manual to see if you can turn it off or turn it down. Also, find out how to adjust your ISO in your manual. Usually 400-800 is a good setting for indoors when you don’t use flash.”
You can, however, use a flash outdoors to eliminate shadows and brighten up guest’s faces. Either way, make an affair something you can remember for years to come.