Link Love: Photography ideas, tips & tricks

I’m not sure if I can claim photography as a true hobby, but I definitely aspire to be a better photographer and practice often. I took a photography class a couple of years ago that taught me a lot about lighting, perspective, and developing photos. We actually had to step into a darkroom and develop film, which seems a little archaic these days; and although it wasn’t my favorite part of the process, it taught me a lot about the creative elements of a photograph.

In January of this year, I began doing Project Life; a project in which you take a photo each day of the year and journal about each one (it’s kinda like scrapbooking for lazy people!). It’s been a great opportunity for me to hone my skills, try new things, and has basically forced me to use my digital SLR camera on a regular basis. I now proudly shoot on manual everytime, and have been gathering photography ideas that inspire me on Pinterest (visit my photography inspiration board).

Here are some of my favorite photo inspirations at the moment and a couple of tips on how you can take these photos yourself (whether you’ve got a digital SLR or just a point-and-shoot).

Photo Inspiration #1: Photograph your child playing in the sheets

photography tips and tricks, photography how-to

Photo by Pink Sugar Photography

Who knew sheet play could be so cute? I love this simple idea. To get correct exposure, I would suggest taking these pictures during the brightest part of the day and letting in as much natural light as possible (i.e. open all your curtains), and also use lightweight white cotton sheets. Pick the brightest room in the house; you don’t have to take the photos on a bed, you can get the illusion by just laying a white sheet on the ground, and using another as a cover. Putting your child in all white will enhance the focus being on her/him instead of her/his clothing.

Photo Inspiration #2: Change your perspective

Photo by Amelia Lyon

We get so used to taking pictures of our kids straight-on, but amazing photos can come with changing your perspective. Little babies are perfect for photographing from above, since they can’t sit or stand up yet. Why not try lying next to them and get a cuddly little shot like this? I can’t wait to try it with my next little lovebug (I just have to remember to lay on my good side…).

Something else to take inspiration from in this photo… notice how baby and momma aren’t centered? There is something called the “rule of thirds” in photography; it basically states that your photos will be far more interesting if you shoot your subject in the upper third, lower third, left third, or right third (as is the case with this photo) of the frame. See how the white space on the top and left of this photo creatively draws your attention to the two people? Shooting them dead center would have been a little too obvious and a lot less special.

Photo Inspiration #3: Shoot a silhouette

Photo by Kelly Hicks

I love, love, love silhouettes. This picture proves how gorgeous they can be. I love this maternity shot, but would also love a silhouette of me kissing my little one or just our faces looking at one another (or maybe combine the two and have my toddler kissing a pregnant belly – Oh, the possibilities are endless!). The best way to shoot a silhouette is to set your exposure on the window/light behind you; this tricks your camera into thinking it needs to adjust the lighting for that bright spot and will end up making whatever is in front of it appear dark.

To do this with a point-and-shoot or on automatic with your SLR, set your exposure by pushing the shutter release button (that’s the one that takes the picture) down halfway while pointing it at the window, then with your finger still holding it halfway down, adjust your shot to get the person in front of the window, and then proceed to take the photo by pushing the button the rest of the way. If you are shooting on manual, set your exposure while pointing at the window, and then take your photo using those exposure settings.

Photo Inspiration #4: Use natural lighting

Photo by Ashley Boomer

One of my favorite ways to shoot is with natural lighting. Shooting next to a natural light source like a window gives you pretty pictures like this one with perfectly placed shadows. I not only love the idea of putting baby on daddy’s feet (totally going to take this picture soon with my 18-month-old in her diaper), but the lighting adds a sweet, dreamy effect. Try turning off the lights and shooting next to an open door or window to get this effect (it works really well on faces too, especially your little ones!). Try different times of day and see how the photos vary with the change in natural lighting.

I hope these photo and tips inspired you a little! Try expanding the types of photos you take; you might be surprised at how good they turn out.

If you’re looking for more tips on photography and using your SLR camera, check out Mom and Pop photo school – they’ll send beginner tutorials and lessons right to your inbox so you can learn on your time.