- Always make sure you have enough power for your digital camera.
- Keep your camera and lenses dry and clean.
- Never remove your memory card or switch off your camera whilst pictures are still being saved.
- Keep memory cards away from strong magnetic forces.
- Before embarking on an important holiday or assignment, get your equipment checked over.
- Consider your storage needs when embarking on a long trip.
- To get the best image with the lowest noise Shoot in ISO 100 or less and don’t let the camera use auto ISO it will always let you down with added gain or grain.
- Avoid placing the main subject in the centre of the frame. Look around the viewfinder and carefully compose before pressing the shutter release.
- Remember, anyone can take pictures. However, very few camera users can take photographs that have a lasting quality.
- Never be afraid to experiment with your photography.
- Pre Focus for faster response times by half depressing the shutter to lock the focus and meter reading then fully depress to take the shot to avoid the shutter lag problem on some cameras.
Rule of thirds
The "Rule of Thirds" is a fairly simple basic rule of thumb for photographic composition. . You divide your frame into thirds both horizontally and vertically and then place important elements of your composition where these lines intersect. This will usually give a more pleasing composition than having the subject exactly in the center of the photo.
In fig.1 the hang glider is placed in the center of the frame with the horizon also splitting the canvas in half.
In fig.2 the Rule of Thirds is applied and various elements of the picture are placed on intersecting thirds which adds interest and balance to the picture as well as framing and drawing the viewers eye to the object of interest.
