Beginner’s Photography Tip #2 Look Behind Your Subject

Many times we notice after the fact that we have a tree trunk, pole, or some other line intersecting the head of our subject.  Take a moment to look past your subject and see what may become a distraction. You may have to move around a bit to find a more pleasing angle.

If timing is critical, grab your shot regardless of the background first.  Then with the luxury of time back on your side, reposition yourself to eliminate those unwanted lines.  With children and pets you may not get another chance to get exactly what you want so get the image now. 

With this photo of George, I think it is pretty obvious that the pole is distracting. It just so happens that this was my favorite picture of George that I captured during the entire time I was dog sitting him. That expression and angle just did not happen again, so I am glad I took this anyway. Now if I had just had a reflector to fill those dark eyes in! But that is another class.

 The excuse of “I’ll just fix that later in Photoshop” is for amateurs and reflects sloppy work. Fixing files also takes time and time is money. Photoshop is a great tool, and I am glad to have the skills because I think I just might take this pole out of George’s picture now. 

About Barb

Barb Gordon, of www.BarbGordonPhotoCoach.com is a Master Photographer, Photographic Craftsman, and Certified Professional Photographer with the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) to which she has belonged since 1984.  She is a nationally published and award winning photographer, entrepreneur, speaker, and author including being published in the prestigious PPA Loan Collection 2006, PPA Showcase 2003 and twice named Iowa’s Top Ten Photographer of the Year.

She has been locally honored by YWCA Tribute to Women of Achievement 2001 and Advanced Entrepreneur of the Year 2003.  Barb owns Gordon Photography & Gallery in Marion, Iowa specializing in customized portrait art. Learn more at www.BarbGordonPhotoCoach.com

When not working in her studio Barb enjoys life on a new farm raising organic chickens, gardening, playing with the horses, cats, and dogs.