Did you know that more than 1.2 trillion digital photos were taken worldwide in 2021? with the increasing use of smartphones and cameras, the art of photography has become a crucial skill for capturing memories. one area where this skill is in high demand is event photography.
In this post, we'll share some tips and tricks on how to take good event photos, including capturing the action, composing the shot, and editing your photos like a pro. and, as a fun fact, the word "photography" derives from the greek words "phos" (light) and "graph" (drawing), which means
"drawing with light."
Capturing the action of an event
1. know the schedule and key moments
Before you start snapping photos, familiarize yourself with the event's schedule and key moments. this knowledge will help you anticipate when and where the action will happen, ensuring you're in the right place at the right time.
2. use a fast shutter speed
To freeze motion and capture crisp, clear photos, use a fast shutter speed. a good starting point is 1/250th of a second, but you may need to go faster for high-speed events like sports. if your camera has a sports or action mode, consider using it for fast-paced events.
3. burst mode is your friend
Most cameras and smartphones have a burst mode, which takes multiple photos in rapid succession. this feature increases your chances of getting the perfect shot, especially when capturing fast-moving subjects.
4. use a zoom lens
A zoom lens allows you to get up close and personal with the action, without physically moving closer. this is especially useful when photographing events where you can't easily change your position.
Composing an event photo
1. rule of thirds
The rule of thirds is a classic composition technique that involves dividing your frame into nine equal parts using two equally spaced horizontal lines and two equally spaced vertical lines. place your subject or points of interest along these lines or where they intersect, creating a more balanced and visually appealing
Image.
2. look for leading lines
Leading lines are lines in a photo that guide the viewer's eye towards the main subject. these can be anything from roads to fences, or even rows of chairs at an event. utilize leading lines to create a sense of depth and draw attention to your subject.
3. frame your subject
Framing refers to using elements within your scene to create a border around your subject. this can be done with architectural features, trees, or even other people. framing helps direct the viewer's attention to the subject and adds context to your photo.
4. capture candid moments
While posed photos have their place, candid shots often tell a more genuine story. keep an eye out for unscripted moments that reveal the true essence of the event.
Editing an event photo
1. crop for impact
Cropping your photos can improve the composition and remove any distracting elements. be careful not to over-crop, as this can result in a lower resolution image.
2. adjust exposure and contrast
If your photo is too dark or too bright, adjust the exposure to create a more balanced look. increasing the contrast can also help make your subject stand out and add depth to your image.
3. play with color temperature and saturation
Adjusting the color temperature can help correct any color imbalances in your photo, while increasing saturation can make the colors pop. be cautious not to over-saturate, as this can lead to unnatural-looking images.
4. sharpen your images
Sharpening your photos can bring out details and make your images look more professional. most photo editing software has a sharpening tool, but be careful not to overdo it, as this can create unwanted noise.
One fascinating tidbit is that the first-ever photograph was taken by joseph Nicephore Niepce in 1826, and it required an astounding eight-hour exposure time!
Conclusion
Taking good event photos involves a combination of preparation, technique, and post-processing. by following these tips and practicing your skills, you'll be well on your way to capturing stunning event photos that will leave a lasting impression.
So get out there, "draw with light," and make some memories!