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How to Get the Most from Your Point and Shoot Camera

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Get the Most from Your Point and Shoot Camera

Even those who have an SLR don't feel like lugging them everywhere. There is some considerable 'tonnage' if you bring your whole SLR system with you. The little point and shoot cameras offer you an alternative.

Edit Steps

  1. 1
    Read the manual. Although many technophiles pride themselves on not having to read their manual, it will certainly improve your chances of getting a decent picture. You also might be surprised at what your camera actually can do.

  2. 2
    Know the menus. Flip through your various options on your camera and look at the manual (again!?). Figuring out how to do something when you need to do it is not fun.

  3. 3
    Take photos when they don't matter. This allows you time to get used to your camera and know its abilities and limitations.

  4. 4
    Learn the 'standard' rules of composition. You need to learn the rules before you can stretch/break them.

  5. 5
    Fill the frame with your subject matter. No, they don't want a picture of them in a long hall. They want a picture of them while using the hall as a backdrop. The difference here is taking a picture of everything and focusing your camera on your 'target'.

  6. 6
    Consider different angles. Get on the floor with your camera...crawl around on the ground, etc.

  7. 7
    Avoid using the flash unless necessary. Learn how to get around using the flash.

  8. 8
    Diffuse the flash. If you must use the flash, try to come up with a way of diffusing it.

  9. 9
    Look for a more powerful optical zoom and don't worry about the digital zoom.

  10. 10
    Don't use the digital zoom. It will show up in the quality (or lack thereof) of your photograph.

Edit Tips

  • Check your lighting you do not want it too dark or too light.

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Article Info

Last edited:
February 1, 2011 by Ttrimm

Categories:
Photography

Recent edits by: Krystle, Portledge_hero, Teresa (see all)

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