I field a lot of questions from people always wanting to know how they can get better photos with their point-and-shoot cameras in everyday situations. Here are three things I’ve found myself telling people over and over. To illustrate, I’ve included some recent images from our portrait sessions in Charlotte, NC.
(All images are © Kilby/VisionPhotos.com)

1. Use your flash.

Modern cameras are capable of adjusting flash output to keep from overexposing your image. I’ve found that using fill flash in snapshots is crucial… even in daylight situations. Fill flash eliminates harsh shadows, and underexposed faces that you’ll often get when taking pictures outside. Set the flash on your camera to “On”, not “Auto”. Then experiment with a combination of photographs with and without flash and in frontlit and backlit situations. It won’t take long to figure out how your camera interprets scenes, and how you can take better pictures.

2. Fill frame with subject.

Most of the time the reason you’re shooting photos of your kids is to see your kids. So fill the camera’s viewfinder with an adorable face or two, and your snapshots will become dynamic, emotional images. Take a look at the “Pink Hoodie” photo below, and imagine how much LESS of an impact those beautiful eyes would have if they were far away.

3. Don’t force pose.

Take photos while kids are playing or doing something they love. On shoots that we book, we love to let kids be kids. We try to incorporate toys, hobbies and playgrounds so that kids won’t feel like they’re being forced into something lame. Take advantage of the energy and excitement that naturally buzzes around children to create meaningful images. You’ll find photos of pure joy much more enjoyable to look at than pictures of sad and stiff little tikes being forced to sit still.

Left and Right Coast

We took advantage of ridiculously awesome fall weather here in the Charlotte area, and set up another outdoor photo session. This is one of many we’ve booked this fall. Two sisters separated by just about every mile across this country got together for a visit, and requested this photoshoot to document the occasion. It is so awesome to be able to capture moments like these in peoples’ lives.

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That’s everything you need for a rad shot just before the sun goes all the way down. I set up an informal photo practice session in Charlotte with some friends who wanted to try out new gear. I figured I could help them make better use of their photographic equipment, and maybe shoot a few pics in the process. Well, here’s one that works so well because it’s just a simple photo of a pensive and elegant model.

If you’re a model (or want to be) in North Carolina, let me know if you’d like to build your portfolio with some fashion and lifestyle photos.

ElisaBeth and an ice box at sunset

Critiques are welcome; use the comment form.

Classic Jeans

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I’ll definitely add this to my list of spots for future portrait sessions, and the lesson here is that exotic (or studio) locations are easy to dream about. Sometimes, though, you’ll find a really great backdrop right under your nose.

This weekend, I was honored to capture some photographs of Jake & Nicole’s now 3 week old baby boy.  We’ve come full-circle.  A few weeks ago we were strolling through Fort Mill, SC shooting their maternity portraits.  They’re proud parents with a handsome boy, and even though he won’t remember any of it he did great!

I shot these photos with my D300, 60mm/f2.8 and 2 SB-28dx flashes at the family’s home. One flash was on the camera. The other I positioned in random spots around the room, triggering it with my Pocket Wizard remotes. I’ve come to love the Nikkor 60mm Micro lens for portraits. The lens’ sharpness is perfect, and the macro focusing capability allows for tight, intimate people pictures.  See a few more at Facebook.

New Family Portrait