*thanks for all your entires the winner has now been notified)
Half term play ideas from Kodak
Half term is now upon us and it’s a great opportunity to spend more time with the family. But how to keep the kids occupied throughout the holiday can be a nightmare for parents, especially if it’s raining outside. Kodak has a selection of easy to do ideas to help you keep the kids entertained while they’re stuck indoors.
1. Create a scrapbook Visit websites such as www.scrapbookinspriations.co.uk to find downloadable digital scrapbook designs which you can print. Or go to http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/barnabybear/ to follow the adventures of Barnaby Bear and print off a scrapbook of his globetrotting stories.
2. Print off a colouring book. You no longer have to make a trip to your local store to buy a colouring book to keep kids entertained. There are many websites which offer free, downloadable templates or software for colouring books to suit your child’s interests. Simply select the design your child likes, print off the page and they’re ready to go…. Don’t forget to ensure you have plenty of coloured pens or pencils on hand! Try http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/more_coloring_pages.htm or http://download.cnet.com/Kea-Coloring-Book/3000-18529_4-10360620.html
3. Noughts and crosses Kodak’s inkjet printers come with a range of embedded printable forms from music sheets to lined paper which you can print off at the touch of a button. If you have a couple of children to keep amused, challenge them to have a game of noughts and crosses. Simply make the selection on your Kodak printer, print, and you’ll have a sheet of paper with noughts and crosses for them to complete.
4. Easy kids recipes If your child loves to play in the kitchen and you don’t mind them getting a bit messy, why not let them practice their culinary skills and make some treats with some easy to prepare children’s recipes. Try http://uktv.co.uk/food/homepage/sid/7067 or http://www.cookuk.co.uk/children-index.htm. Or if you’re using an existing recipe, and are worried about getting your expensive cook book messy, why not take a photocopy of the recipe instead.
5. Make a photo collage Select some of your kids’ favourite snaps and challenge them to create a pretty photo collage for their bedroom wall or for the fridge. Kodak inkjet printers are designed to be so easy to use, printing your best photos memories is child’s play! If you trust them with your camera, perhaps they could even play a game of dressing up and take pictures of themselves for the collage. Your camera’s SD card can be inserted directly into your Kodak inkjet printer, so all they need to do is simply select the images they like and press print! Simple and fun!
Kodak’s easy-to-use range of inkjet printers have the lowest ink replacement costs on the market[1] so you needn’t worry about how much you print. Independent studies show you can save and average of £75 a year on ink[2], based on printing as few as 4 pages a day. The savings don’t stop there as the more you print, the more you save, which makes Kodak ideal for families with children. To find out more about Kodak’s great value, and how much you could save, visit www.printandprosper.co.uk Or visit http://www.kodak.com and follow Kodak at http://www.kodak.com/go/followus
The KODAK ESP 7250 printer
This beautiful, of the moment printer came out last June. It is really clever!
Here is what it offers:
- All-in-one printer, photocopier and scanner with latest Wi-Fi technology and extremely easy wireless set-up
- Direct printing from iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch
- Photo tray and intelligent paper sensor which automatically selects the right paper for printing a document or photo. Plus built-in duplexer for double sided printing if you want to save money and time
- Premium-quality inks and porous papers for brilliant documents and Kodak lab-quality photos that dry instantly, are water and fade resistant and last a lifetime[3]
- 2.4 inch colour LCD display screen and memory card slots
- Great Kodak value! Replace all your ink cartridges for less than £20![4]
Competition
To win a FABULOUS state of the art Kodak printer worth £169 You simply need to enter this competition and share your best photography tip. Mine is to take a lot! For one entry simply leave a comment and for two please also follow me in Google reader and let me know you have. Good Luck! This competition will close March 4th at 4 pm. What a prize!
T&Cs: One entry per person UK entrants only please. Winner picked at random. Baby Budgeting’s decision is final.
Good Luck Everyone!
[1] As compared to leading consumer inkjet printers total ink load replacement costs using manufacturers recommended ink cartridges; excludes printers that use only one cartridge. Based on independent third party cartridge pricing survey data obtained Sept 2009.
[2] Results based on average ink costs of leading consumer inkjet printers using average annual print volumes of 150 4×6 colour photos, 800 text pages and 550 mixed colour graphic pages using standard cartridges available in single quantity pricing .
[3] Under all common consumer display and storage environments. Based on testing by Wilhelm Imaging Research (WIR) on Kodak papers.
[4] RRP Pricing as of January 4th, 2011.
Gosh this is a lovely prize. I will need a printer for my proof reading so I am crossing everything.
Thank you!
I am subscribed to your blog via my Google reader.
Becky,
You are a true inspiration to us all, love reading your blog it always keeps me going when I’m having a bad day and wondering is it all worth it! Of course it always is, but sometmes we all need a helpng hand to keep going and it’s always good to share what we can to mae life easier.
Bo x
I would love to win this, my printer is broken and we haven’t got round to getting another one, this looks great. I totally 100% agree with you about taking alot. My tip would be to always have the camera handy! I already follow your blog @ashlallan
what a fab prize, my printer is always letting me down!
My tip : don’t always wait for a smile!
already follow in Google reader
Thanks
Helen
@jessies_online
Thanks for this. I liked the tip about printing off a colouring book – this is something I’m going to do. xxx
Great prize always wanted a printer. My tip is to always have people in photos makes it more interesting.
The most natural spur of the moment pics are always the best – don’t try to “stage” a photo – the kids get bored and you get frustrated!
following on google reader
my tip is make sure you have enough batteries, theres nothing more frustrating than getting the perfect picture and going to shoot only to find the dreaded exhausted battery sign!!! also natural photos are always better than posed shots
@twinklenicci on twitter
– My tip would be to always make sure your batteries are fully charged/work. Nothing worse then getting your camera out only to find it doesn’t have much/any juice left in it!
– Am following via google reader
Fab giveaway. Thank you both for running it! 🙂
Oh no, that is the top tip: TAKE LOTS!! I always try to “frame my picture” too – i.e. look what is in the background, maybe move something out of the way for a nice shot or take a slightly different angle to avoid “that bloke in the background picking his nose”…
Thanks for a fab comp!
Google read you already!
Maggy x
Fab prize. My best tip is: never “cut” people legs – people “without legs” always make photo less interesting. Thank you
I follow via Google Friends, Thank you
I would love this. My tip is to make sure that you do print photos. We take loads but tend not to have them printed. Otherwise get one of those frames with a memory stick in them they are a great way to remember great family days.
Lisa
Don’t run out of printer inks!
I subscribe to you via Google.
My tip would be to make sure you back-up store all your digital photos. I have all mine on an external hard drive so if anything happens to my computer, I still have them!
Great competition, thank you x
My tip: You can get great pictures of kids with sparklers by using a flash (to capture the child in the dark) with a really long exposure (that then catches the trails of the sparkler and sparks).
Matt
I agree with the TAKE LOTS tip – the times I’ve had the perfect shor ruined because someone moved or a shadow fell or something! Thaks for a great comp!
Always take a camera or your mobile if it takes photographs when you go out ,you never know when you will need it
My top tip is to take the photos you want to see, they dont need to be perfect, just hold on to a memory. I am already a follower and a tweeter too!
Always take a spare battery when taking picures,incase it runs out.
Hi
I’m following via Google Reader. My tip is to hold your breath as you click -it helps to avoid camera shake.I put my camera on speed setting on the scenes menu, hold my breath and click when the children are in action jumping around or on their bikes and I’ve had some photos that they love because it captures a bit of movement and fun.
I think close-ups of children capture their expressions better.
I think I’m subscribed to the blog.
My top tip is to keep the camera still when you take a picture – not something I’m very good at.
My tip is to always try to take natural rather than posed shots – much more interesting
Always carry spare batteries and media cards especially when taking loads of pics!
I subscribe via GFC and email. My photo tip is give the manual option a go and you don’t always have to use a flash. Great prize.
the best photos are the ‘caught on camera’ ones. no poses just reality
Great prize. good luck all x
every 6 months I encourage my children to take photos of things which mean something to them and then save these in a file for them to look at in the future. I also try to find out why e.g. the whisk is important to the child because the reason you think it’s important isn’t always the same for the child. In the case of the whisk I assumed it was because she liked using it to make scrambled eggs … but it was because we used it several times in the bath to froth the bubbles up!
My tip is to try and catch toddlers unaware or they will do a fake pose like BG or put their face right into the camera.
I already follow.
This a great prize, I really need a new printer
Put your Photo on DVD to make a Slideshow and play them back with your best music
Dont wait for a perfect pic just surprise and click lol and always takes lots of photos, my kids have grown so quickly and i make sure i never put the camer a down.
You picked the best tip, its take loads and loads, because now with no film it is not going to cost you a penny. Just look back at the old photo albums of badly taken photos from your youth. There is no excuse now to take perfect shot if you go click crazy.
@phyllgerry
Also Subscribed to your blog via google reader.
@phyllgerry
thanks for running what a great prize! my photo tip is to always carry a spare charged battery so you don’t get caught out!
No matter how many photo you take of your children you wish you’d taken more
I think aside from your advice of taking lots of snaps is take your time over editing them and don’t be afraid to crop them into odd shapes, especially if it will make a more interesting picture.
Have also subscribed via Google Reader.
Depending on what sort of photographer you are. For fun like family occasions or in an artistic way. I am infact an artist and my tip would be “every moment is a Kodak moment” so keep a camera (preferably digital) with you at all times……you know….digits don’t run out forever!
Always have your camera with you where ever you go,Snap Snap and snap take loads to preserve that memory. It’s now easy to convert photos to black and white. If you have a really nice picture that is slightly out of focus convert it to black and white which will give it a nice soft effect
Subscribed via email (don’t know what google reader is or if I have it – oh the shame!). Taking lots is definitely THE top tip, but I would also say try to take photos from different angles/perspectives – it can make a familiar subject very different. Also make sure that your pics are saved in a couple of places – just imagine if they were all just on your pc and it died.
Learn about your camera and use all the effects that you can.
I am following you blog via Google Reader
My photography tip is before you compose your shot compose YOURSELF! to avoid blurred and out of focus pictures
My photo tip is ‘shoot from the hip!’
I try to take a lot of photos of friends and family without warning or preparation, you get more honest shots of everyone that way. They may hate you for it, but you don’t half get some funny pics!
Another great giveaway…………. My tip would be to always make sure your batteries are fully charged and you have a bright Background.
Great prize 🙂
My top tip would be – although posed pics are great, try to catch people unawares too – you get a much nicer and more natural smile when someone’s just having fun and doesn’t realise their picture is being taken!
Would love to win this printer!
My tip is: don’t wait too long before clicking the button when taking a photo – you’ll miss the moment!
I take lots of photos of my grandchildren in the hope of getting 1 or 2 good ones.
So that is my tip. Take plenty. And always have a camera to hand.
My top tip would be to get the photo’s printed, there’s something wonderful about looking through an album with family, friends or the kids and actually touching the memory.
When taking pics of my kiddies I try to make it fun, a few silly pics first then you will get the best smiles
Keep things natural.
My tip: You can get great pictures of kids with sparklers by using a flash (to capture the child in the dark) with a really long exposure (that then catches the trails of the sparkler and sparks)..
My top tip is to carry a camera with you everywhere – I always used to find that when I want to take pictures the camera was sat on the side at home! Now it is stored in my handbag and I always have it to hand.
Keep your camera handy.Take loads of snaps-you can always delete any you
don’t likeand make sure the batteries are charged
My top tip woud be to get down on your subjects level. Snapping your pet or a small child is always best when your at their eye level – you can get such a different feel within the photo and, if it’s a child your taking, they are usually more at ease.
My tip would be to take photo’s of whatever you want to. Always look for something different be it an old fashioned lock on a door or some fungus on a tree. Don’t just take scenic photos – get in close!!!
This is one of the best giveaways I’ve entered thus far! My top tip for outdoor photos with the kids when it’s really bright out is to make a game of it. I tell them to close their eyes and when I say ‘Cheese’ open up and smile! It works every time. @xcrossthepond.
The beauty of digital cameras is the delete button. Photograph what you want, as often as you want, and if you don’t like it…..delete 🙂
My tip is to take photos when the subject is not expeting you too. Much more natural.
Make sure you camera is fully charged as you dont want to miss a potential heartwarming moment!
Would love to have a new printer – my one doesn’t feed paper through properly anymore ! Anyway, my tip would be to try and catch subjects unaware so you get a more natural image !
Don’t restrict your photography to sunny days. Some of the best photographs I’ve seen were taken in stormy, or dull lighting. It pays dividends to be adventurous.
Take photo’s at dusk/dawn! The lighting levels are just perfect then and you will always take a good one! 🙂
Also following on twitter
My tip for a great person photo is to have the subject looking away from the lens and to capture the image in black and white!
When I take pictures I just click away, my little one is always moving so Im lucky to get a good one
My tip is to have fun when taking photographs! Don’t always spend ages thinking about ISO and shutter speeds, just have fun and it will show in your pictures. Also sometimes dont look at any of the pictures you have taken until you upload them, this makes it more exciting when you do see them =)
Thank you for the great competition and I already follow you on twitter =)
my tip for complete amateurs like myself is to use the multi shot feature on your camera, at least one of them should turn out ok and not blurred or shaky also perfect if like me you are taking your little ones to the sporting events, how hard is it to time a particular shot lost count of pics that have been empty as the car/motorbike etc were to quick.
My tip is dont hold babies as they wriggle too much and start to cry when trying to hard to take a picture let them lay down and be relaxed and just take natural pictures.
My tip is take photo`s on a adhoc basis. They look more natural that way.
follow you on google reader
my tip is to take natural photos, when people don’t know, that is the best photos, espeically of children!
always keep the camera still !!
Yes, I’m one of those people who dont have a clue about lighting, focus or even what a pixel is! I just try to keep my hands from shaking, make sure the camera lens is open and I’m holding the camera the right way up, I cross my finger and toes then I take about ten shots of the same ‘thing’ in the hope one comes out ok!
Try and take more natural photos (try and catch people out!!!)
I try to not always take posed photos. You can get some really nice shots when you catch someone unawares!
Great photography isn’t about capturing what you see, it is about capturing how it makes you feel.
Take a few in the same outfit but in different poses. That way you will have at least two of your baby/child looking gorgeous.
Adding a little color can brighten a shot and create a fun fresh look. Try pining a colorful sheet up on the wall behind the play area. Using a colorful chair, rug, pillow, etc… look around and you’ll find something fun!
Zoom out or stand a little further back than necessary as you can always crop an image, but you can’t add in bits you’ve missed.
Always use natural light where possible as it is much better for taking photos – especially of children. The flash can be quite harsh on digital cameras which means the kids will squint or even shut their eyes when you take the photo.
Followed in Google reader
My tip is to learn to use the aperture setting to control blurring of the background / foreground. If your camera let’s you!
My phototip is – always carry a spare memory card
Take several of the same subject, with slightly different angles etc., and delete the ones you don’t want.
Always check that there will be no distracting things or colours in the background. Sometimes you only notice this afterwards and it ruins a perfect shot
Use natural light – e.g. sit the subject in front of a large window to give great catchlights in their eyes and take away harsh shadows.
Mine is take unexpected photos,natural is best 🙂
My tip is always have the camera ready
If you have children or animals you never know when they will do something so if you have the camera ready you can usually get the best shots
My tip is make sure you have good lighting, if you do not have good lighting you will not take a good photograph.
my tip is to photo your children or in my case granchildren when they are asleep or just about to fall asleep ,no fake smiles or half closed eyes just beautful little faces and sometimes you can catch a faint little smile or a cheeky little grin, some of my most loved photos .
Nice printer.
Would love to win this prize, thanks for the competition 🙂
This would get a lot of use in our house! x
Make sure you’ve got your specs on!! 🙂
Try to keep things Simple
I like using my SLR for the best pics, but when I can’t carry that around and I only have my little digital camera, my top tip for outdoor shots is to hold a pair of sunglasses over the lens!
Sounds very weird, but it adds so much warmth to photos that can otherwise look overly bright, making them cold and sterile. Polarised sunglasses are the best, but any will do – it has the same effect as those filters used on an SLR.
Have a look on the camera, somewhere, probably on the top or back or somewhere on the front or sides there will be a button or dial marked ‘A’, this does not stand for ‘Automatic’ as some amateurs think but ‘Awesome’. Leave it on this all the time.
Take way more than you think you need as more often than not something will ruin them
Mine is a common tip – take as many pics as your memory card will allow! You will then always be guaranteed to get a few good ones.
Use window light for a better result than on-board flash.
Mine is to copy what the professionals do…. they take loads of photos and get rid of the rubbish ones…. very expensive back in the day when we had to get film developed but great now we can just delete them from a digital camera. Also think about lighting, turn on lights and lamps to see the difference it makes to the photo.
Breathe out when pressing the shutter.
My tip is to always check that you have the person’s head in shot – there’s nothing worse than ‘cutting them off’ at the shoulders.
Take more photos than you think you need, then choose the best.
Take lots of photos so children get so used to the camera they don’t feel stressed by it and produce the awful “frozen smile”!
following on Google reader
Buy a mini tripod, it stops camera blur when you get the shakes on.
I love pictures of the kids playin in motion there is something so sweet about a picture of a child in a world of their own xxx
@nuttynel on twitter already following ur blog xx
Always keep your camera close to hand so you don’t miss that special moment. Am also following in google reader
My only tip would be to just snap away, take loads of natural photographs, they always look a lot better than posed for, expected ones, and sometimes the results can be very amusing, most of all have fun 🙂
My tip, is to make sure there is enough light in the photograph!
say cheese :D:D:D
I always carry my camera – always be prepared for the fab shot that may appear!
I follow you thru google reader
Jo
x
Take inspiration from the lomography movement and shoot from the hip, up on high and without looking. You get the most surprising and beautiful shots.
Take a lots of pictures from any distrance you can photoshop later.
Consider lighting, strong lighting from behind will darken or black out your subjects. Reflected lighting from light surfaces (eg a wall) is best for a natural look if you find direct lighting eg sunlight too intense.
NEVER RUSH A PICTURE ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOU ARE HAPPY WITH THE ONES YOU TAKE AND TAKE 2 OF THE ONES YOU NEED AS TO HAVE A CHOICE IS ALWAYS BETTER
I think some of my best shots have been at low level looking up and across at my kids. Not good to be always looking down on them.
My tip is when you’re outside try and have the sun behind the photographer for the best lit shots!
My top tip is to never put the focus of your photo dead-centre in the picture – offset it/the person from the centre!
Take pictures from a low height, I lie on the floor while my daughter plays around me. Trust me you can get some incredibly cute pictures this way.
My tip is to always make sure you keep your camera to hand so you don’t miss out on some fantastic photo-taking opportunities.
a good camera can differenciate light much better so invest a little and you will make the absolute best of those special moments.
My tip would be to always carry around a spare battery and memory card. You really never know when you might get snap happy and need them.
🙂
I agree about taking lots but also take the time to edit and tag them, delete the really rubbish ones and print out the best ones for albums. Yes, it’s great having them all on the computer but it’s lovely being able to sit down and flick through an album without ploughing through 400 holiday snaps – much easier on the eyes for grandma too!
this is a lovely prize. I will need a printer so I am crossing everything.
Thank you!
I always have the batteries charged and the camera ready to snap a photo. I take my camera with us when we go out on family doings. I set the camera ahead on a good setting for indoors/outdoors and prepare to take mulitiple shots. I like to take surprise shots of the little one having fun. When we take outdoor posed photos we use our small tripod that fits in my purse. I run, say cheese and keep my fingers crossed that one of them turns out. When taking photo of my little one, I make silly faces while hubby snaps a photo.
Always make sure your digital camera is at hand and charged!! Nothing worse than batteries running out!
Try taking pics of kids from various angles rather than face on all the time – it makes the pics much more interesting!
another tip is to take pics against white walls – it gives the pic a more professional look.
My top tip is to let your wife take them.
Make sure that your thumb isn’t in the way!
Photos taken early in the morning have a really atmospheric quality, bend down or move into a new position to get the best shot, and, of course, make sure your thumb is not in the way!
Never take photos in bright sunlight you end up with shots of people with closed eyes
Take a few pictures of the same subject and choose the best
When out for the day – visiting etc – take people – scenery is very boring and not very interesting – most people have seen trees and grass. And make sure they take centre stage
my top tip is to take a picture when they are uaware so natrual they are always the best ones
Always take several pictures to ensure you get the right shot.
If you want natural photos without posing, try to discreetly get the camera out without people noticing.
Always keep your camera in your bag, you never know when a great photo opportunity will arise, and take loads of photos, you’re bound to get some good ones.
Remember to take your charger on holiday!
I’ve got some great photos of my children lately by making them laugh, I get them to say silly words instead of cheese.
I’m also following on GFC.
x
invest in a digital photo frame and a nice big SD card so you can display all your best photos all the time without having to choose between them
Use your camera’s timer function so you can get in the shots yourself… this also guarantees entertaining outtakes too!
I’m following as Superlucky!
My Photo tip has got to be always check the photo then and there to see if a retake is needed… nothing worse than getting home and finding them all to be bad!
My tip is continuous shot! Its great for building an effective collage too – I have a smashing one of my little girls first steps, in the frame it looks like stop start animation 🙂
Best tip is to ensure that you take the same shot twice just in case 🙂
Make sure you photo is composed properly.
My tip is to remember to clean the lense frequently
Shoot people unposed rather than posed. Much more natural and you get a better picture
my tip when photographing children is to get down to their level
use the android app retro camera. it’s quality
Take lots of different pictures as there’s nothing worse than looking through somone’s album/computer screen & seeing over 100 pics of little Bobby/Sara that all look identical
My tip is to print them out and share! It’s all too easy to take photos that never make it past your pc screen, so print lots out and frame them, they don ‘t have to be on display forever, you can change them often – no digital photo frame required, just a decent printer!
Try HDR photography for something new, great for location shots. Can be done using photoshop
I’m a google follower.
my top tip is to take pictures with your light source behind you. For instance, if you take a picture with your camera facing the sun, the picture will have weird colours and shadows, but if you turn around and have the sun behind you, the colours will be more vivid
my tip is to not force a smile. A smile should be natural and there is nothing worse in a photo than a fake smile.
Great printer, mines on the blink so I could certainly do with winning this!
My tip is to take natural pictures, don’t get the kids to pose as they look too “stage”. I have scrapbooked some really gorgeous photos of my kids when I have snapped them unawares!
Sarah x
Hi
My tip for taking photos of the kids is to make it fun. I laugh, sing, tell them a joke, dance then stand still and start snapping!!!. If its for my little boy who is 2 i have toys nearby, hang then over my head so he is looking directly at me. I agree with taking lots so you can pick the best
Thanks
Nicky
Sorry meant to also say i’ve subscribed to your blog
Thanks
Action shots are always better than posed ones – especially when kids or animals are the subject matter 🙂
My tip is to remember that everyone knows what the sky looks like so when taking the photo make sure you move the frame down so you only have a little sky and fill the photo with other interesting things.
Don’t leave all your photos sitting on a memory stick or on the computer – print, share and most of all – enjoy!
My number one tip for photos is use them. Don’t just have them sitting around on a USB or hardrive. I’ve got the wall of my bedroom covered a huge photo collage of family, friends and memories.
It’s a great way to make a room feel more your own (especially as I rent and redecorating isn’t easy).
My tip is try to check out the background of the photo before you take it because whats in the foreground might be a cute baby but the background may have the plates of your last meal in it for example.
My top photograph tip is to take them when people are relaxed and having fun rather than sitting or posing xx
My tip is to carry your camera with you. For example I have been taking mine into the bathroom at night. It is so lovely to catch my 11 week old baby splashing in the bath. I used to think, that would make a good photo but i would never have my camera with me.
Try different angles! I’ve found that I’ve taken some of my best shots by doing this!
Don’t just switch the camera setting to “Auto” – experiment.
For a great family photo(with everybody in shot) ask a passer by to take it instead of setting the timer. You’ll be suprised as nearly nobody turns down your request.
My tip is to buy a light box for macros. Spending a tenner can make a huge difference to your photos
I always take the photographs when my children are in a good mood,as a lot of children hate their photo taken if they are tired ,hungry and grumpy.I also interact with them.The oldest children i tell a joke to and my youngest i pulll silly faces.I think it’s all about making them laugh and taking the photos at the right time.Iv’e got a very basic and cheap camera as i couldn’t afford an expensive one or have the knowledge to work an expensive,sophisticated one and the photos always turn out lovely and natural.
My tip is to always take your camera with you everywhere you go
avoid posed photos of people,catching them without thier self conciousness on show is much better
Get to know your camera and dont be afraid to experiment!
Use a camera with automatic EVERYTHING… for people like me who have zero natural talent….
Best Photography tip is: Keep an eye on what’s in the background especially if you are taking in your house! messy house in the background of a great one off shot is soooo annoying! One more is a learnt from experience too..make sure the lense on your camera has not been mucky finger printed! Only found out once pics were on camera that they were a little hazy!
Also I think I am following you on Google Reader! lol I say think because not very up on that sort of thing ! hopefully I did it right!
For some really natural poses I’d suggest not letting people know you’re going to take a photo, be discreet.
Take natural shots.
My tip would always be to take photos of people without asking them to pose, catch them as they are doing something naturally, that’s the moment you are trying to capture and remember not one you made up just for a snapshot.
Try to capture the person as naturally as possible. Some of my best pictures of my kids are when they aren’t aware i’m about to take a picture. Their poses & smiles will be natural. Its when its all posed that i think it take that something special out of pictures.
.
Take a few photos from different angles. Certain angles can be very flattering in a variety of places.
Make sure people are relaxed and looking at the camera!
I’m following you on google reader
I take lots of photos every day but upload the best one to my baby blog to share with family and friends!
Already following you via google reader
When taking a group shot at a family occasion, crouch down rather than standing. you get everyone full length and it looks really professional
Following your blog through Google Reader 🙂
My best tip would be to use a good quality camera, and to think about your background when taking pics, it can mean the difference between a good pic and average one!
Brilliant prize, thanks 🙂 x
At a family party or reunion always give a young child the job of taking the photo’s, you’ll get to see the world from there perspective as well as getting a smile from even the most sour faced of relatives.
My tip would be to remember to ask your subject not to blink when you take the photo! Also look through your photos with the kids and cut out some to make home made birthday/christmas cards.
Read your cameras manual!!- and learn how to use it, there are far more settings and effects on most modern day digital cameras than simply putting it in Auto Mode and leaving it there.
Experiment, use different settings, there are different shutter speeds, different ISO settings (these used to be film speeds but these days are digital sensors- the higher the ISO the coarser the photo but the quicker the shutter speed can be especially in very dark locations such as at night), different apertures (thats the eye of the camera and how far it opens) which can produce front to back of the photo sharpness or just the subject in sharp detail with a blurred background (in a wide open apeture, like a pro produces- strangely the higher the number the smaller the opening of the ‘camera eye’ (aperture) and the more that appears in sharp focus, for those ‘subject only’ with blurred back ground photos use a small aperture, ideal for those close up photos of wildlife/birds to make the bird really stand out against the background.
Ever wonder how the pro’s get those little stars of light bouncing off the water? they use a star filter on the front of the lens, these create the star like shapes from light reflections, even modern compact cameras often have an adaptor you can fit to the front of the camera (depending on make/model) which allow various filters to be fitted to create even more special effects such as the star points mentioned, or to create red sunsets, golden sunsets and deep blue skys as well as many many others. You can even often get- again depending on your camera make and model- telephoto adaptors that again fit to the front of your compact camera and increase your optical length to zoom in on those far away objects just like the pro’s with their SLR (Single Lens Reflex) cameras and long long telephotolenses at football matches or like the paperazzi but in a much more compact way and at a far far cheaper price.
And a good photo editing programme can often brighten up and radically improve even your poorest photo’s into major achievements that you will be proud to print out using an excellent printer such as the Kodak ESP 7250 to create your very own “gallery” hanging on your walls to bring you back memories of those happy, glorious summer holidays, your children and grand children as they grow and wonderful country scenes, even the wintry ones.
Its a wonderful hobby often not fully realised simply because people have not explored their digital camera and its diverse arrangement of settings and effects to their full capability, go on have a play and a mess around, you might suprise even yourself what you can do and create with just a turn of a dial and the push of a button.
Action shots always make great viewing!
Don’t set up your photos, don’t try and pose your subject or prepare them, just take a surprise photo whilst the subject is doing what they’re doing. It all seems much more natural.
be patient!
get down on the floor and lie on your tummy and point up towards your photo target to get a great pic!
Keep them simple and take them often.
My best tip is to get to know your camera’s capabilities. Be “snap happy” in this age of digital photography when we don’t have to worry about the cost of developing. Try all sorts of bizarre angles, distance shots, extreme close-ups, shooting through foliage, lie on the ground and shoot upwards so that you get blades of grass at the bottom of the picture. Generally just play around and you’ll find that confidence results in unusual and fabulous photographs!
When on holiday get up early and take sunrise pictures, Use a Tripod and slow camera speed. If focusing on the clouds produces a dull white image then focus on somthing near the horizon, half press and hold the shutter release button until focus is achieved then move your camera to take your picture of the clouds.
download and backup your photo’s onto a disc or another SD card as soon as you can because accidents happen and you don’t want to lose those all important shots !!!!
My tip is to experiment by changing your colour photos to black and white and sepia tones. I have some fantastic shots of my daughter in black and white.
Use sunglasses as a filter for you compact camera if you want to create stunning sunset pictures etc.
Often the light is not perfect & pointing the lens through one side of the glasses adds a warm tone to these photos.
My tip would be – don’t always have your subject in the centre of the frame. Try to experiment with the composition by imagining the frame is divided into thirds horizontally and vertically. If you place your subject at the intersection of two of the imaginary lines you will end up with a much more interesting image. ALWAYS carry your camera with you. You never know when an interesting subject might appear!
Always take plenty of photos and get duplicates of all the special ones in case your children want copies when older
My tip would be to take photos from different and unusual angles.
Always enjoy your photography and stay relaxed while you’re snapping. If you feel stressed and forced, you will end up with photos that look “forced” as well.
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My tip would be to forget “posed” pictures , in my experience the more natural the setting the better the pictures.
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Use a tripod when possible,they’re available very cheap & fold away nowadays.
Always make sure the light / Sun is behind you!
My tip is that you really don’t need to try and be a professional! Just play with your subjects and don’t be scared to try something new! If it works, it works, if it doesn’t, try something new! If you experiment, you might just come up with something really fresh and exciting!
Make sure you look in the view finder as well as the picture on the back of your digital camera to be certain that you are not cutting off peoples’ heads.
Be spontaneous
Never take the photo in black and white straight away as you may regret not catching that moment in colour!! You always have the option of changing it to black and white once you’ve uploaded it to the computer!! 🙂
Oo and am already following! (just seen that this gets me a extra entry!) 🙂 x
IF YOUR NOT SURE OF THE CORRECT LIGHTING THEN USE YOUR FLASH OUTSIDE
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I tend to keep snapping away and take what comes. I usually get lucky with one of my shots and edit any problem features out.
Always have your camera ready to go, by the time you’ve found it, turned it on (changed the batteries) the moment is gone!
take your time choosing the subject of the photo,and don’t try to get too much in the frame
make sure you look at the backgrounds to check no silly poles out of peoples heads etc. also if travelleling take the sd cards out of the cameras and store them separately. to keep them safe.
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If you can use a tripod, prevents camera shake and blurry photos.
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Make sure you get the right lighting for your photos.
I take lots and then filter them
I always keep a camera with me
My tip would be to always have your camera with you. You never know when an unexpected photo opportunity may arise
Always carry a camera with you, even if it’s just a single use one. The best photo opportunities usually arise when you least expect them
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My best tip, (and i found this out by total accident) If you take a photo of your object (works best with people) into the sun, the object comes out as a silhouette and the background remains the same.
For example on holiday in cornwall i took a photo of my family on the beach, i took it into the sun and the picture came out fantastic, i had the background of the sea and sand, then the family in black silhouette’s it looks very professional!
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point at the body, rather than face until the red eye reduction / autoflash has set then move to the face,avoids bright flash into the eyes
Do not be afriad to try something new, if you have an idea to prevent wash out but you think others will call you daft, who cares just try it you never know your idea might be something others could also use.
Now everything is digital, it’s great to be able to snap away to your heart’s content without worrying about processing costs.
repeatedly press the take picture button so you have a range to choose from 🙂
My tip is always to have your camera with you.You never know when a good photo opportunity might turn up
A lot of digital cameras have a digital zoom as well as an optical zoom. If you can, avoid using the digital zoom, as this will reduce image quality, try and move closer to the subject.
Don’t let them see you’re taking a photo!
my tip is to try to take your photos when the children are busy so that they don’t stop and pose and the photo is completly natural.
For the perfect photo, be patient!
My advice is to use the light available. Try positioning your subject witht he main lightsource more to the side to create a cute contrast. Especially if you want black and white photos.
Take lots of photos and then get several of the same developed as you can then make a scrapbook and cut some up but still have the originals
My tip is to carry a spare memory card – that way you really don’t have to worry about getting too click-happy.
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Simple tip – always have your camera to hand and take lots of photos, that way the kids get used to having picture taken and stop posing when they see the camera
my tip, take lots of pictures when you are doing posed ones with kids, there is always someone pulling a silly face but if you have lots theres a chance of a decent one (or doing clever editing later)
My tip would be to always have a couple of disposable cameras in the house and get the kids involved in taking photos themselves using these.
my top tip is for landscape photo’s plan plan your photo before taking the photo and for children take video and your photo of video footage.
My tip would be – take picture from an angle slightly looking down, and not to “pose” for the camera. Takes a much more natural picture and very effective
If you find your photos are to too dark – remove the lens cap.
Always have your camera at hand. Children grow so quickly and even though you think you won’t forget what they looked like or special days out, you do. Now days you can take a photo without it costing anything else than battery power!
Always take spare batteries and memory, there is nothing worse than running out half way through your child’s birthday party, before the cake (believe me i SHOULD KNOW).
Mine tip would be to always take your time to get that special shot 🙂
My tip is when taking closeup pictures of my baby girl, I take at her eyeline so you get a more effective picture. Also, neutral backgrounds are great.
my tip is to take lots of pictures so you can go through them later and pick out the best ones. Also make sure the photographer is standing with the sun of lights behind them-makes the biggest difference.
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Try and keep a camera handy to take pics of natural laughter and happiness, these are much better pics than poses, and really capture the moment better.
Experiment with the colour options on your camera. Sometimes changing the print to a black and white or sepia can change an average colour print onto a really lovely print.
i generally try to catch the kids when they do not know i am there that way i can get some really natural and fun shots, plus i always have my camera with me as the best photos are in the stranges places tesco etc lol!
my tip is to play around with the black and white and sepia options for a different look.
(also whilst mummys are reading this) look out for unusual reflections in your childrens pupils in photos. if one looks different, eg white, it can be an indication of a serious eye disease. usually it is just because your child is not facing the camera directly, but if one reflection is red and the other is white, get it checked asap
lots of pictures online of examples of this. 99.9% turn out to be nothing to worry about.
Keep it fun, don’t take photos of stuff you find boring or dull. Make sure you are interested in what you are snapping.
i think my best tip is always keep your camera close by so you never miss those precious memories you can never take too many pictures : ) its great to look back and smile x x
When taking photos of your baby/toddler/child – don’t zoom out to try and get the whole ‘head’ in the shot, zoom in very close and just get a partial face. I know it might sound a bit quirky, but some of the best shots I have of my little boys are when I have zoomed in very close like this – they are especially good when they are sleeping – trust me,,you can get some beautiful shots.
My tip is to try using one of the “toy cameras” like a Diana or Holga. You can get really arty shots that make fabulous wall art, you stop worrying about the photo being “perfect” and don’t have to waste all that time digitally altering the photo which seems to take the fun out of photo’s now. And it makes you feel part of the young and trendy set again which is always a bonus!
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Take loadsof photos when the children are playing rather than asking them to pose and you will get some lovely photos that way.
Just play around with the camera and taking pictures until you find a setting that suits you.
Don’t think, just shoot!
My tip would be to use the things around you to help take a steady picture, like a wall, fence etc. Helps minimise blurry images.
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My best tip is don’t be afraid to take your time!! Feeling rushed, taking a quick pic and then moving on means you could end up with a blurred useless picture!! Take you time make sure you have got everything you want in shot then take the pic! Don’t be afraid to check the photo then and there and take another one if the first one is not right!! You might feel daft for a moment but the photo will last forever!!
Short on time and really need to take a quick pic and run then adopt my best friend’s photo motto – ‘One for safety’ – take the photo then take another one straight away just in case much quicker than checking and retaking!!!
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It’s all about the light. Bad lighting will give you a photograph with very little aesthetic appeal.
When taking pictures of little children for best shots get on your knees so you’re at their height, it makes for more natural photographs and also children find it more fun when you’re interacting with them at their level.
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My top tip is to read the manual of the particular camera model you have and try to learn and experiment with the different functions rather than always have it on automatic point and shoot option. If you learn which circumstances are suitable for which settings your photographs will improve.
My tip is to take photos of people when they don’t know you are looking, that way they don’t put on a pose. xx
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When taking a picture of a miserable looking bunch of kids, make sure you shout something silly.. “say silly sausages.” That will have them all in smiles 🙂
It might seem obvious, but make sure you can see peoples’ faces clearly – not always easy in a crowd! But it makes a difference between a snap and a really good photo.
x
The tip i always give to people is to always observe your surroundings and always have your camera in hand. You never know when the award-winning scenario might be. And keep on shooting.
USE DIFFERENT OBJECTS IN THE FOREGROUND TO GIVE A WHOLE NEW THEME TO A PHOTO – THINK OF THE DIFFERENCE OF THIS SCENE – A BEACH WITH AN ABANDONNED BOAT IN THE FOREGROUND OR A BEACH WITH A DECK CHAIR IN THE FOREGROUND. THE ITEMS CAN GIVE COMPLETELY DIFFERENT EFFECTS TO ONE SIMPLE VIEW
Take photos that are natural looking. Instead of getting subjects to ‘pose’, take photos when people aren’t looking directly and just acting naturally,
Keep a backup of your photos – too many precious memories are lost when technology malfunctions.
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I like to take natural pictures of people when they don’t know someones taking a photo they always seem to come out best and capture personality rather than a forced cheesy grin!
Make sure your subject is comfortable with having the photo taken (even if it means taking a sneaky ‘natural’ photo!), get in close or use a zoom so they aren’t swamped by the background and try not to take all photos with the subject dead-centre – off-centre photos can give a more interesting perspective
My tip is to take natural pictures dont get peope to pose, also get a really good quality printing paper when u are printing them