Shooting Basics

Here are some things to check before shooting:

• Digital cameras go through batteries at an alarming rate, especially if the LCD and flash are used. Buy extra rechargeable batteries and a charger. Make sure there are enough space on the memory cards to handle a day's shooting, or get more to cover the difference.
• If the camera has digital zoom, shut it off and leave it off. Digital zoom only makes the pixels in the center of the image larger - something that can be better done in software both in terms of quality and in selecting the crop area.
• Get a tripod or monopod to use in steadying the camera for shots with long shutter speeds. Get a camera neck strap for wearing the camera and a bag for the gear normally taken when shooting.
• Before walking out the door, check for the following: camera, lenses, lens cleaner, filters, tripod or monopod, memory cards, and charged batteries.

Here are some things to keep in mind while shooting:

• Remember the rules of good composition. Keep the background clear of unnecessary items, and be sure that the horizon is level if it is visible.
• Use a tripod or monopod in low light or with a telephoto lens. Check the direction of light before shooting to avoid shooting into the sun or making human subject squint. If using the flash, make sure it isn't too far (or too close) to the subject.
• Keep in mind that digital cameras often suffer from shutting lag and anticipate the moment when the shoot will need to be taken.
• The viewfinder in many digital cameras is not as accurate as the LCD viewer, especially in certain modes. Know how to compensate or use the LCD.
• Try different viewpoints of an interesting subject. Move around it and change the camera orientation between horizontal and vertical. Set the focus on different areas of an object.