Taking your own photos is simple and fun.
You don't have to have expensive professional equipment to do a photo shoot of your family, pets, kids or yourself. Don't be intimidated by taking your own photographs. Many of the best photos come about with very little effort.
Instructions
1. Choose a location. If the weather permits, the natural lighting of the outdoors is a good choice. Natural light is what many professional photographers prefer. However, if that isn't possible, set up a place in your home for your photo shoot. Make sure there is enough room to take the photos you need. Move any clutter or furniture out of the way.
2. Pick a backdrop. For indoor photos you need something to hang behind the subject of the photos. A plain white sheet, piece of black velvet, or solid colored blanket will work best. Tape or hang on the wall, a curtain rod, stair case or just about anywhere. Take a couple of test shots of the backdrop first to see how it looks on film.
3. Gather props. Stools, wagons, toys, balls or dress-up clothing are good ideas for kids. Let kids pick out a few things of their own that may turn out to look adorable in photos, such as their favorite pair of sunglasses, feather boa or football. If you're doing a shoot with just adults, you may want to have a chair or stool available for seated shots. An ottoman, chaise lounge or a fence to lean up against (for outdoor photos) can provide interest to a photo of adults.
4. Test the lighting. Is your space bright enough? Can you open some blinds and let in natural light or bring a lamp nearby for better lighting? Take some shots to determine what gives you the best light. Lighting in photos shouldn't be harsh or unforgiving, but it should allow the subject's best traits to shine.
5. Take the photos. If you want to be in a few yourself, mount your camera on a tripod or have a trusted friend take some pictures with you in them. Imagine the mood you are trying to convey with your photos; what themes of the photos are. Try to bring out your subject natural personality.
6. Examine your photos on your computer. Use your photo editing program to edit your photos. Photos can be easily cropped, flaws can be edited out and images can be resized. Print out your favorites to examine.
Tags: your photos, photo shoot, photos need, your photo