When time permits, remember to use your camera's timer. Whether your camera is set up on a tripod or you are composing a hand-held shot, the timer will help eliminate camera movement that can result from manually pressing the shutter button. Most cameras have at least two timer settings; a longer one which is useful for when you need extra time to get into the picture yourself, and a short 2-second one. I use the latter most often when I'm at home photographing still objects or rooms.
When I'm out shooting, even if I don't have my tripod along I still use my camera's timer whenever possible. I've become an expert at finding places to set my camera down; park benches, stone walls, fire hydrants. Whatever is handy. Almost every photo I took on our honeymoon back in 1988 had both John and me in the picture. I found places to perch the camera with the timer on all over Quebec City! In this picture of us from that trip, my camera was balanced on a railing along the St. Lawrence River's Samuel de Champlain Boardwalk. Good thing it wasn't a windy day!
Tune in next time for my thoughts on flash photography.
Susan
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