[Part 1] Lessons on the key points of Digital SLR – Capturing that child-like moment!
This lesson is on "capturing that child-like moment," "producing pictures with impact," "composition," "brightness," and "bokeh" for complete beginners and entry-level users of digital SLR. With the use of photos, professional photographer, Yuji Ogura, will explain the tips to taking cute pictures. Here in [Part 1], let's learn about the advantages of using a DSLR camera and some tips to capture memorable moments of your child. (Written & Organized by: Camera Biyori Editorial Department)
Why is Digital SLR Good?
Beautiful Image Quality
The larger the image sensor, said to be the heart of a digital camera, the better the image quality. As digital SLRs have a large sensor, beautiful images with little noise can be produced.
Easy to Use
In addition to the Auto mode in which all settings are left to the camera, there is also a choice of shooting modes that allows you to adjust details such as exposure. Once learned, the functions assigned to the dials and buttons can be used to facilitate your photographic experience.
Lenses are Interchangeable
Changing the lens broadens the range of expression. The photo you envisioned could be taken by using different lenses. For example, a "wide-angle lens" allows you to include a wider area, a "telephoto lens" can be used for capturing a larger view of faraway subjects, while a "macro lens" captures close-up shots of small objects.
Capturing That Child-like Moment!
Mischievous expression of a child playing with the curtain. A memorable "toothless expression" that characterizes the stage of the child's growth.
A shot of the child on a slide. Here, I aimed for the fleeting moment when she looked up.
The key to capturing the expressions of child-like innocence would be to take the photos while engaging the children in play. Try taking the photos while talking to them, making them laugh or praising them. This would also double as communication with the children.
Useful Tips!
Camera Settings 1: AUTO Mode
In the "AUTO" mode, the camera analyzes the conditions of the scene during a shoot, and selects the most appropriate settings to take the picture. Select the icon marked as "Auto" on the Mode Dial or menu screen. As you only need to press the shutter to take a shot, you can focus fully on seizing the photo opportunities.
Camera Settings 2: Continuous Shooting
Continuous shooting enables the fast, ever-changing expressions of children to be captured in multiple shots, thus increasing the chances of you capturing the best moment. Select continuous shooting from the "Drive mode" (the menu that allows setting of continuous shooting and timer). After the shots are taken, choose the best one from the lot.
Photo-taking Tip
Shoot under bright natural light!
By using bright natural light, the resulting photo will look more natural. Furthermore, to take a picture of constantly moving children without them appearing blurred, "shutter speed (the time between the opening and closing of the shutter)" is essential. When there is sufficient brightness at the scene being photographed, shutter speed will be higher, and movements can be captured without causing any blur.
Camera and Lenses Used
EOS 100D & EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM (35mm format equivalent: approx. 29-88mm)
The latest model in the EOS three-digit series, which is popular for shared use among family members. The ultra-compact body that fits comfortably in the hand is amazingly light, weighing about 370g. Perfectly suited for taking child photos, it is a model that you cannot part with even for a moment.
* This article is created based on a trial model. Aspects such as the appearance and image quality may differ slightly from the actual product.
Ogura's work in photography expands from shooting photographic works to development and printing films. He is one of the tutors at the "Camera Biyori Photography School". He started his career as an engineer at a film laboratory and later establishes his own "mogu camera" lab. He also runs the "mogu sun" portrait studio.
Camera Biyori is a Japanese photography magazine introducing charming photos and daily joy with cameras. Suggesting fun activities relating to cameras and photography, Camera Biyori editorial department also offer the "Camera Biyori Photography School" to recommend its readers to engage in photography and have fun.
Published by Daiichi Progress Inc.
