For all the moments where you thought, “why didn’t I get a picture of that?” just remember that you can. With digital cameras being an affordable option and most, if not all, cell phones having cameras, anyone can become a photographer. I don’t know too many people who have photographic memories so that is why taking pictures is an important hobby. It gives people a chance to remember more of their past with visual proof. I think sometimes people choose not to take pictures for fear of annoying their friends. We all have those friends who put their hand up once you grab your camera, but push on and capture those memories before it is too late. People with kids, animals, or just like beautiful things should also consider taking a second to snap that important picture.
Here is a small list of tips:
Start off with simple subjects.
I suggest trees or other inanimate objects for beginners because they won’t move in-between photos and it will be easier to see the difference between settings used. Take several pictures of the same item and try different color settings, angles, and see what fits you interest, goals, and mood. Most cameras have Black and White, Sepia, Moonlight, Vivid, and Neutral color settings. Each provides the picture with a different mood. For portrait pictures, Black and White or Sepia are the best bet, where the more vibrant settings can make people look a bit strange. Black and White and Sepia create an old fashioned or classic look, which is quite nice. The vivid settings can be fun for architectural shots or other still life.
Know the setting right for the surroundings
Typically the Auto setting on most digital cameras will get you a good picture, but simple adjustments can make a picture great. Taking pictures outside on a sunny day? Change the ISO setting to 400 or 200 in some cases where it is really bright outside. Also keep in mind that if your subject is backlit by the sun that you will have to turn the flash on to make sure the subject is not shaded from view. However if you are taking pictures at night, at a concert, or in places where flash is prohibited, switching you ISO setting to 800 will give you a better chance at a good picture. Some cameras have 1600 or 3200 ISO for darker areas. Beware that you will need a tripod for those conditions because the shutter speed is slowed thus making holding the camera still for a longer period of time nearly impossible. 
Candid shots vs. Posed
Once you have found the appropriate settings you are ready to gather your “photo victims” and get that perfect picture. But wait! Haven’t you seen those stilted grins or deer in the headlight stare?Posed pictures can bring out the worst in your camera shy friends. So the cure is to have your camera ready to pull out once your friends are naturally smiling or at least not placed in front of the camera. Once you capture some pictures of your friends, they should get used to your new found hobby and accept being the “photo victim” a few times at least.
This may seem silly but after you find what type of photos speak to you the most, you can set out to take pictures that will bring back a memory, a feeling, or moment. Architectural pictures can be an art form in themselves. soothing form of art. So if you know of a particular building that is attractive, foreboding, or just unique, take a few shots and see what happens. Sometimes a color change can add an artistic flair to a mundane subject.
All in all, this post is just to inspire a new hobby. It can be quite fun taking pictures and once you have taken some you will see their worth. Maybe the next time you are reminiscing about a memory you can pull out a photograph, sigh, and wonder where those times went.
Traci
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