{Momtography 101}

Before I started my business, I was just a mom with a DSLR.  I shot in AUTO and didn't know any different.  I used the lens that came with my kit and that was it. For some of you, that's all you need and you'll live happlily ever after.  For others, you might look at some pictures and go, "gah, I wish my camera could take pictures like that!"  *spoiler alert* your camera can... you just have to know how to make it! I thought it would be fun and educational (I am a teacher afterall) to start a series on how to use your DSLR to take great pictures of your own family using easy language and giving examples to help guide the process.

Ok, so herrrrrrrrrrrrre we go! *whomp there it is..*.. ahem. sorry. side tracked, but high five to anyone who read that in their head how they say it in the song..

Lesson 1:  Rule of Thirds

One easy technique that you can begin practicing with your own family is called the RULE OF THIRDS.  Basically what it means is that you should divide your photograph into 9 sections - 2 lines down, and 2 lines across (think tic-tac-toe).

Most people will center their subject right in the middle, and sometimes that is just dandy.  BUT, if you want to try something different..... try putting your subject on one of the lines.. and if you want to get real crazy.. try and put your focus at one of the intersections.   Here is an example using little Max:

Both images are from the same distance and practically same location.  I think they are both cute pics. Now apply the Rule of Thirds:

The bottom picture (to me) is more interesting because of the location of Max.  He is obviously the subject of the image, so when looking through the viewfinder, I lined him up to the right of center.  His eyes are also pretty close to an intersection so it tends to draw you in.

So, there is it - The Rule of Thirds.  An easy change that you can do as a momtographer! :)  Questions?  Email me at amyfanslerphoto@gmail.com or visit me on Facebook!  http://www.facebook.com/AmyFanslerPhotography