Photography Tips

The design of compact cameras is the culprit for most red eyes. The flashes are mounted near the lens, which frequently results in red eyes. Light generally travels in a straight line, so when your flash goes off the light moves straight ahead and into the eyes of your subject. The light then bounces off the retina (the red inside the eye) and produces the red eye effect on your pictures. Many of the newer cameras have a "red eye reduction" flash, which basically pulses several small flashes. These small flashes cause the pupils to grow smaller; however, as many people have found out this only makes the red eye smaller (it rarely eliminates them).

There are several ways to reduce or eliminate red eyes. First, stop using a flash. Consider using alternative lighting, such as spot lights. Use a tripod and shoot at slower shutter speeds to allow more of light into the camera. Second, buy a camera that will allow you to attach a separate flash. Then buy a flash that allows you to tilt the flash head up towards the ceiling. This will allow you to bounce the light off of the ceiling. A third way to reduce or eliminate red eyes is to use an off camera (or remote) flash.

The most important aspect of photography is light, and if you want to be a good photographer you must understand it. There have been many books and articles written on light, so I can only begin to scratch the surface.

First, all light has color. Remember the rainbow, it is a beautiful example of the various colors of light. Basically, white light is the presence of all colors, while darkness is the absence of light (and colors). Most artificial lights are not balanced in their distribution of light, resulting in one color being more predominant. For example, the standard (incandescent) light bulb gives off more of a yellow light, while the fluorescent lights tend to give off more of a green light. While these colors may not be visible to the eye, they are present and frequently show up in pictures.

Second, light has varying degrees of intensity or brightness. Very bright light is often referred to as harsh lighting. If you are taking a picture in the middle of a sunny day, you will likely encounter harsh light. Additionally, most flashes produce a harsh light. If you get too much harsh lighting pictures will washout and appear to be too bright or white. Harsh lighting can result in vibrant colors, high contrasts, and increase shadowing effects.

While harsh lighting has its purpose and place, so does soft lighting. Soft lighting is less bright and on the other end of the spectrum from harsh lighting. Soft lighting reduces shadows and produces a softer image. Normally, the sun produces a softer light in the mornings and evenings. Many people prefer the look of soft light for romantic or artistic images. Generally, there is less glare from soft lighting and it provides less contrast. Some people think soft lighting is more forgiving, hiding minor flaws in the complexion or skin tones of people.