CHRISTMAS IN NATURAL LIGHT

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As Christmas time is fast approaching, it is time to plan those special family memories around the tree on Christmas morning.

Many photographers will just switch on their flashes and take some great family memories. But, when they print their pictures that special glow or atmosphere with the tree’s decorations and lights on seem to have not been captured?
Unfortunately the strength of the flash light cancels out that atmosphere.

As your lighting will be natural with only the Christmas lights reflecting, place your digital cameras white balance to tungsten (globe). Most digital cameras have an icon with a moon and a star icon. Set it to this icon. Adjust the ISO to 800 ISO and place the camera on a tripod. If you do not have a tripod, place the camera on a sturdy table with a cloth or small towel to give it support. Compose your picture. Get the children to sit still and press the shutter release gently. As the camera is going to go off at a slow speed, prevent any action that will move the camera. This will give you a natural lite picture with all the atmosphere.

The unfortunate by-product, especially in some compact digital cameras, of a increase in ISO is the random coloured pixel effect called “noise”. Just like grain in film, noise will also reduce the quality of your picture, but both are only noticeable in pictures printed larger the 6x4. The benefit of following this route is the natural atmosphere that will be obtained.

Possibly your would prefer to use flash. Angled flash can mimic the look of natural light. Always preview your results on the LCD Monitor and try various flash positions to obtain the results you prefer. Unfortunately, compact digital cameras have a flash that is in a fixed position, but you may like to try another idea. Press your flash icon until the flash and red-eye icons are visible on your monitor. This will assist in reducing that “red eye look” in your family pictures. Another tip is just before taking a flash picture of people, is to get them to look at a bright light source like through a window on a sunny day. This action is only required for a few seconds and then to look back at the position you wish to photograph them. Quickly take your flash picture. The bright light dilates their eye pupils and reduces the chances of the red eye syndrome.

Remember to place the objects correctly in the viewfinder before you take the picture. It is called composition. The Christmas tree could be slightly to either the left or right of your picture with the children in the opposite space at the base of your picture. Let the children busy themselves with opening their presents. In other words, capture the moment and print your memories to last a life time.