Taking Photos in the Sunshine

Many people want to capture their vacations on film with their compact digital cameras and other photography equipment. They feel like they need to remember their trips to the beach or to Grandma’s for posterity. However, with the summer sun blazing down overhead many people don’t know how to use their cameras to take the optimum pictures.

First rule of thumb is that you should always try to take photographs with the sun (or other light source) behind you. This way the features of the people and objects you’re shooting will be well lit.

If you don’t have this option (if the sun is directly overhead when your son takes his first messy bite of choco taco) try to make your own shade. Moving into the shade can create great photographs but you still might find it lacking a little. Shade makes everyone look a little bit on the grey side. This is why you can use something called “fill in flash.” Try taking the same photograph with and without the flash. Most of the time the flash will create enough light to avoid that grey looking feel.

You can also try to use different filters on your camera such as a polarizing filter to make sure you get the best light possible.