Photography Tips and Tricks

Candlelight is one of the most flattering of light sources that can be used in a photograph, if used properly. These tips will help you to capture dazzling images using candlelight.

Set-up

First, you must set up the area for a good photo.

To prepare your camera, turn off the flash. Flash will wash out the image and destroy the pretty light from the candle.

Then, set your camera to a low ISO setting. ISO mode is indicated by an ‘I’ or ‘ISO’ on the camera. To keep the light warm, keep your camera set to auto ISO.

Warm Tones by Alina Bradford 

If you want cooler tones in your photos, adjust the white balance. This may take some practice shots to get just the right effect.

Cool Tones by Alina Bradford 

Secure your camera to a tripod to avoid camera shake because of the low light settings.

Taking the Shot

Once you have your camera ready and your settings perfect, all you need to do is to start shooting. Set your timer, focus your digital camera by pressing the shutter button half-way down, and then depress the shutter button all the way. Stand back and let your camera do its job, making sure not to jiggle the tripod.

Getting the Best Results

To get the best results you will need a few tricks:

• Use as many candles as possible to get the most light.
• Spread the candles out for a diffused light, or bunch them all in one place for dramatic shadows. No matter what, make sure the candles are in a pleasing composition.
• A small, white room will bounce the light back at the subject, making brighter, clearer pictures. Powder rooms and bathrooms are ideal.
• The closer the object is to the candles the better lit it will be.

• Smaller candles will do better with smaller objects, while large candles are better with larger objects.
• Get as close to your subjects as possible. Fill your frame with light.
• Reflect the candlelight in a mirror. Remember to keep your camera at an angle so that you don’t take a picture of yourself.

Mirror Reflection by Alina Bradford 

If you have an interest in architecture, chances are you want to photograph it. Here are some tips to making your photos interesting while capturing the building’s uniqueness.

Look at the Details

Interesting buildings are composed of many different details that you want to focus on in your photographs. Take note of any arches, towers, doorways, or windows with unusual shapes and make sure that your photo highlights these areas.

How? Remember the Rule of Thirds. Use your viewfinder to visualize the end result and make your most interesting objects go in the “thirds” area. Or, put more simply, your focal point should be in the upper or lower right or left of the finished picture for the most impact.

Keep the Angle Right

Large buildings, such as skyscrapers, can pose problems. Certain angles can make the building look as if it is leaning.

To avoid this, try not to take photos of buildings by standing at the bottom and looking up. This will make the photo look like it is leaning away from you. Instead, get as far away from the building as possible and take the picture. Not only will this keep the building from leaning, it will also give the building a frame of reference because the viewer will be able to see how tall the building is compared to other buildings.

If you have to stand at the bottom of the building to photograph it, stand to the side and aim up. This will give you a more interesting angle.

Zoom In

Don’t be afraid to use your zoom as much as possible. Zoom in and capture details that the average viewer wouldn’t be able to see. For example, this gargoyle was at the top of a very tall building. Normally, no one would know it was there. Using a zoom, he finally gets the attention he deserves and he makes a great subject.

Don’t forget to zoom in on large architectural elements, too. Domes can be fascinating and abstract when zoomed in on.

Night Scenes

Don’t forget to take photos at night! Some of the best architectural photographs are taken at night. Set your tripod up and set your camera on a low ISO. Use your timer to reduce camera shake and start snapping. Look for bright lights and lots of color for the best images.

The best way to get good at photographing buildings is practice and taking tons of photos. So get shooting!