Finn The Jack Russell Terrier (Click to enlarge)
When the excitement has passed it’s time to look at what brought us here. Photography. Though I’ve written many times that this is not rocket science, one must have a certain desire. What most of you are looking for are images of your pets and family which reflect the mood and tenor of the moment. If you lack the desire to capture this, you will fail.
What do I mean by desire? When a once-in-a-lifetime event occurs, you want to be ready for it. If you don’t want to be shooting during it…well then, that’s why you hire a pro. Perhaps I’ve led you to believe that professional photographers aren’t worth their fees. If you’re willing to invest thousands in equipment, and if you’re willing to study and practice for years to achieve consistent results, then perhaps a pro wouldn’t be worth it for you. However, notice I said ‘perhaps‘. If you’re shooting, you’re not playing. You’re working.
Still…if you’re willing – desirous – you can get good snap-shot results and still enjoy your day. Get ready. First thing to do is check your equipment and supplies. Gather enough film/discs, batteries, lenses, filters, etc. to take you through your event. Camera malfunction? That’s why pros have back-up cameras. You can achieve good results, but not if your equipment fails.
Here comes the most important thing. I’ve said and written it so many times the words come out on their own when I sneeze. Read your manual. You need to know how your camera works. Before you pack your equipment and supplies you need to know how to operate your camera. During a once-in-a-lifetime event is not the time to learn it. I’m not saying that you can’t learn something new during the event; I’m saying that your fingers need to know where they’re going and what they’re doing on your photographic tool. The more you know the better your images will be.
Of late I’ve seen some astounding amateur photographs of the many events that occur in this part of the world in the first two months of the year. Really admirable captures. Some images I’ve seen improved by those who read this blog…and you know that makes me feel good! But let’s not make this luck. Practice good photographic techniques and follow basic rules, and you’ll be able to document your adventures with stunning images which will last for lifetimes.
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