Photography as an art can be improved with these basics

Madyson Grant — Whether you are just breaking into photography or a seasoned veteran, there are certain pieces of equipment that are essential to the trade. A good camera with all the bells and whistles comes in handy but isn't on the top of the list. You do need a camera that produces a good quality picture. However, a good picture can be ruined with a shaking hand or wind. One of the first items needed to do good picture-taking is a tripod.

Broom Handle

Tripods stabilize the camera so there is no need to worry about an unsteady hand. High winds will flip a tripod, so carry a broom handle with you. Shove the handle into the ground where the tripod legs sit. Set each leg into the hole to secure your apparatus in the location you want.

Sheer Cloth

A zoom lens helps with a closeup when the subject is too far away. The lens allows you to get close to the action without getting in the way. But for those times when you are close and the image is still too sharp, a filter cloth over the lens softens the picture. This is good for infants, brides, and even baby animals.

Windshield Sun Screen

There are times when you just don't have the right amount of light, even with the aid of a light set. Grab a windshield sun screen that has a reflective foil side. The light you do have is reflected off the surface and onto your subject. This is an inexpensive alternative to a higher priced light reflector.

Bedroom Sheet Set

A portable backdrop works well for those remote locations where there just isn't anything to use behind your subject. Use a colored bed sheet that you can spread over something. Hang the sheet with thumbtacks or throw it over a small tree if you are outdoors. You can paint on the sheet to add holiday designs or additional color for a more colorful picture.

Treasure Chest

No portrait is complete without some type of prop. Whether it is the bride holding her bouquet or the baby with a teddy bear, your subjects look good when they are doing something besides standing. The photograph has a realistic touch. Search thrift stores and bargain bins for dress-up clothes and jewelry for little girls, ball bats and gloves for boys, and a collection of hats or scarfs for everyone. Consider grabbing an old ladder or foot stool for kids to stand beside.

Favorite Location

The last thing every photographer needs is a favorite location to take pictures. This could be the beach, a quiet park or even a home studio. It is the place where you look forward to going because the lighting is always right, the subject matter is diverse and the colors are vibrant. You can make such a place or find one in your local area.

There are little things that come in handy when you are photographing outdoors, like a dry cloth to wipe the camera, some sanitizing towels to keep hands clean and a pack of new combs for subjects who have a hair or two out of place. As you get more familiar with the craft, you will discover so many other things that come in handy when shooting that favorite shot.

 

About the Author

Madyson Grant loves spending time with family and in the outdoors.