I need some quick tips on photography with Canon PowerShot A2300?

Question

A number of VIPs are visiting my office (a small NGO) and I've been asked to take photos to document the visit. They will be visiting over two days an will travel to various project sites so I'll be taking photos inside/ outside in daylight, early evening etc.

Some of these photos may be used in our monthly publications and so I want to do a good job, don't want to make any glaringly obvious beginner mistakes.

I'll be using my personal camera (Canon PowerShot A2300), I take a lot of macro photos of flowers and insects but never had to worry about taking photos for publication (web, brochures).

What are some essential things to know when photographing people, regarding camera settings? F-stops? Dimensions? Anything at all really....

Answer 1

I would not want to take these shots with a point-and-shoot. But it is what it is. Don't worry about f-stops. Just make sure there's not a lot of depth in the shots where it all has to be in focus. Your camera's small sensor is actually a benefit in this regard. It has a deep depth of field. For outside shots, avoid direct mid-day sun. Shoot in the shade. But not dappled shade, which is worse than mid-day sun. For indoor shots, there's no way around it: you'll have to use your camera's flash. Do not shoot from farther than 10-feet away (3 meters). If you do, your flash is not likely to be powerful enough to give you a proper exposure. Plus you face a greater probability of red eye. For your group shots, make sure everybody is about the same distance from the camera. Make sure your batteries are fresh. Have a spare set at the ready.

Answer 2

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Answer 3

Canon Powershot A2300

Answer 4

Just use common sense and try to document the visit. You will be taking handshakes, group shots, gestures of your boss pointing to something with the guests looking on, etc., etc. Use flash indoors and also outdoors under the sun at midday. Always check your shots especially when using flash. If flash is too strong, step back and shoot again. If too weak, move forward. Do not be afraid to get close as long as you're not within kissing distance. When in doubt, shoot wide.

Answer 5

1. Buying (cheap) Yongnuo flash (or alike). Make sure that it has *slave mode*. YN560 (II or III) is enough. Ask the seller how to set it up (should be less than 15-30 minutes).

If possible, ask for the "flash diffuser". This gadget will soften the flashlight on the people's face.



2. Set camera to auto mode, with flash "always on".



3. Test the combo with people in your office. Learn how to aim the flash.

There're 2 choices : aim directly at the people (NORMAL technique), or aim at the ceiling or the wall (called BOUNCED FLASH technique).



Don't forget the spare battery!!

Answer 6

Try Trick Photography Special Effects - http://tinyurl.com/lWzgHmdtMz

Answer 7

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