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Camera Help
Manual Camera Skills
Aperture
Shutter Speed
ISO
This is the 'GOLDEN TRIANGLE'
Aperture
Shutter Speed
ISO
These three aspects effect the exposure(result) of the photograph
Aperture -->
Effects the:
LIGHT INTAKE
DEPTH OF FIELD
Shutter Speed -->
Effects the:
LIGHT INTAKE
HOW SHARP THE IMAGE IS
ISO -->
Effects the:
LIGHT SENSITIVITY
HOW GRAINY THE IMAGE IS
If you're still stuck
Download this PowerPoint and refresh your memory:
Canon cameras
Golden Triangle
.....Then try it with your own work
Composition
There are no fixed rules in photography, but there are guidelines which can help to improve the impact
Rule of Thirds
Split into 9 segments, the rule of thirds states that you should place your most important aspects along these segment lines.
This adds balance and interests.
Balancing Elements
Placing the subject off-centre makes for a more interesting photo. You can have a balanced photo by adding another subject of lesser importance to even out the main subject's visual weight.
Leading Lines
In a photo, our eyes are drawn by lines. Using leading lines can effect the way we view the image; drawing us in, focussing on the subject or taking us on a journey.
There are many different types of line; Straight, diagonal, curvy, zig-zag, radial, etc
Symmetry and Patterns
Symmetry and patterns occur in the natural and 'man-made' world. They can make for some very eye-catching photographs, especially in places you don't expect them.
Another great way to use them is break the symmetry or pattern by introducing tension and a focal point.
Viewpoint
Before taking the photograph, think about the best angle to take it from.Our viewpoint has a massive impact on the composition.
Rather than just shooting from eye-level, try experimenting with above, below, from the side, from the back, close up, at a distance etc.
Background
The human eye is excellent at distinguishing between different elements in a scene, but a camera can 'flatten' an image.
A plain, or less intrusive background, can stop the distraction and place more of a highlight on the main subject.
Depth
Photography is two-dimensional, so we have to choose our composition carefully. You can create depth by having objects in the foreground, middle and background of the photo. Overlapping, obscuring one object with another, can allow the eye to manually separate the image, creating more depth.
Framing
Natural framing is common in the natural world through archways, trees and holes. Placing these around the edge of a composition can help isolate the main subject from the outside world. The result is a more focussed image which draws your eye naturally to the main subject of interest.
Cropping
A main subject can lose its impact due to the fact it is too small in the frame.
Cropping tight around the edges of the main subject, can eliminate the background noise and make sure the viewer's attention is drawn to the correct spot.
Experimentation
Experimenting with composition can mean there are almost endless possibilities for a finished photograph. These are only guidelines and not rules, but they can all help to improve a certain aspect of the image.
Try using some, or breaking others, to create your personalised image.
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