Help for a total novice!

[katiem]

Hi,

Just wondering if anyone has any tips for me? I love to take photos of my son and the outdoors but have your standard old digital camera, nothing fancy. Is there any hope for a novice like me? I'd love tips on how to take some nice shots of the family, the beach etc.

Thanks,

K

[OsmosisStudios]

You're gonna need more details.

[i speak in math]

Originally Posted by katiem

Hi,

Just wondering if anyone has any tips for me? I love to take photos of my son and the outdoors but have your standard old digital camera, nothing fancy. Is there any hope for a novice like me? I'd love tips on how to take some nice shots of the family, the beach etc.

Thanks,

K

is there something you're looking for that isn't in the zillions of article that cover this on the homepage?

[NgaiHill]

Hi Katie, welcome to DPS.
What sort of tips are you looking for? As Osmosis said, you need some more details for us to give advice. Are you wanting tips on lighting? composition? post-processing? buying a new camera?
If its advice on composition and just general improvements in your shots try googling "composition" and having a read up on the general "rules". This will get you started. Then try posting a shot in the Critique section where people can offer you specific advice on what you're doing.
What sort of camera do you have? Telling us that might help to as there is bound to be someone here that can give you advice on how to get the best out of the equipment you have.
If its learning about photography you're here for, then you've come to the right place!

[jojonac]

Here is a quick tip that can be found on numerous pages on this website.

When taking pictures of your kids, get down on there level.

Really just do a quick search or go to the DPS home page and read some of the articles on composition. Thats the quickest way to improve your photography with out needing to learn about all the buttons, and dials on your camera.

[Biomech]

The best tip for you is to have a quick read of some articles on "composition".
Changing how your compose your images will give you one of the biggest improvements to your photos.

I'd also say put the flash on (but reduce the power in the menu), even if it's a beaming sunny day, it will light up the face a bit more and make the eyes stand out.

[SwissJon]

Post a photo or two in the critique section and you'll get loads of helpfull tips.