Holding your camera steady is important. If you don't, your pictures may come out blurry or not centered. Start with a solid stance. A boxer stance is usually best. Stand with your feet a little wider than your shoulders width apart with your non dominant foot (for right handed people your left foot and vice versa) in front. Next, put your right hand on the right side of the camera so that you can control the shutter and other buttons, and use your left hand to cradle the lens. Even if you're using a shorter lens it is important to get used to having your left hand where it can steady the camera and allow for manual focus if needed. Next, tuck your elbows in and rest them on your chest or belly. This will keep the camera from moving around too much. If you hold your elbows away from your body, you are more likely to move a little when you click the shutter button.
Also, try to get in the habit of taking a regular breath and hold it for a second as you press the shutter button. It will teach you to "settle" just before you take the shot. It will really help at slower shutter speeds.
For an even steadier position try centering your weight by kneeling, sitting down, or leaning on something.
Some cameras have the option to use "live view" looking at the LCD instead of through the viewfinder on the camera. If possible, compose and shoot through your viewfinder. Holding your camera away from your body and looking at the LCD to compose gives you a less steady foundation and you will potentially be moving the camera when you push the shutter button. Get used to squeezing the shutter button gently and then holding for a second before you drop the camera from your eye. This will ensure that the shutter has had time to open and close with less potential for blurring.
Keep Hitting That Shutter Button!
http://www.chipshotz.com/
chip@chipshotz.com
For information on other Tampa photography classes, digital photography classes, and Tampa photography workshops feel free to call me or look under the Tampa Photography Classes section. I also give private individual lessons on camera operation and making better photographs and would love to work with you one on one to make you a better photographer. Photography instruction gift certificates are also available. They make great gifts for the photo enthusiast in your life. Let's talk about what you need! 813-786-7780. See you in class!
Chip Weiner is an award winning photojournalist and food photographer in Tampa. He has been a photography instructor for 10 years.
Copyright Chip Weiner Photographic Arts (2007-2015). All Rights Reserved
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