Take a series of photographs where the aperture changes and other variables stay the same. Do you see the difference that changing the aperture makes? Remember that the largest number (like f/22) is actually the smallest hole.
Set your camera for different ISO's. The lower numbers (like an ISO of 100) are for situations where there is lots of light. The higher numbers are for lower light situations. Newer and more expensive cameras do a great job even with very high ISO's. See what your camera will do.
Terms: focus - which part of your picture is sharp and clear. If you're interested in understanding the technical details about how light is focused through a camera lens, Google "circles of confusion".
depth of field - the part of the image that is acceptably sharp. Depth of field is affected by 3 main variables, one of which is the aperture. A large aperture (small number, like f/2.8) will create shallow depth of field. Things in front of or behind the center of interest that you focused on will appear blurry and out of focus. A small aperture (big number, like f/16) will have a greater depth of field. Objects all the way back through your image may be acceptably sharp.
Blurriness caused by depth of field will affect only part of your image. If your whole picture is blurry, you may have a problem caused by camera shake. With slower shutter speeds and/or longer lenses, your breathing and heart beating can cause the camera to shake enough to blur your pictures. Use a tripod. Brace yourself against a stationary object. If that is not possible, let all the air out of your lungs, then hold your breath, brace your arms against your side, and be sure to squeeze the shutter release button. If you punch down on the top of your camera, you may be shaking the camera!
Seeing: This week look for shapes - angular, geometric shapes and circles and ovals. Try to notice the shapes of negative spaces, and objects and their shadows. Look for framing as a compositional element. Take a silhouette. Look for a repetition of shapes that forms an interesting pattern. Try to use the rule of thirds. Practice placing the horizon one third from the top, and one third from the bottom.
student photograph by Sean Palizza
No comments:
Post a Comment