Coach others on how to take Instagram-worthy photos for you
Whether you’re on vacation or just happen to spot a unique photo op, you can’t always trust your friends or family to take good photos of you. And let’s face it, the selfie stick just doesn’t cut it. But it can be frustrating to ask someone to take a photo of you, only to realize later when you’ve left the photo op that the photos are blurry, you’re blinking in the photos, or the lighting is all wrong.
Taking the perfect photo takes patience, guidance, and a vision — which you must provide to your potentially clueless photographer. So what can you do?
Here are a few tips on how to coach friends, family, and total strangers to take your perfect vacation photos:
1. Get them acquainted with your camera
It seems simple enough if you’re just using your smartphone, but the camera app on your phone might not be the same model that the photographer is used to. If you have a DSLR camera, teach them how to look through the viewfinder and zoom using the lens, if necessary. Preset the manual settings or set the camera mode on auto (usually the safest bet) or flash off mode, and even though you might think it’s obvious, show them where the shutter button is!
2. Ask them to take multiple shots at different angles and in both portrait and landscape
It’s always a good idea to get several options, and you might not realize which type of shot you prefer until you see the outcome of the photos. You can also ask them to keep the shutter going while you’re getting ready to have your photo taken. Sometimes, candid poses end up being the most interesting.
3. Take a photo of them and show them what you’re looking for
If you can find a willing subject, ask them to stand in front of the camera for you and let you take their photo. You can use this as an example and ask them to try to recreate the photo with you in the frame. Tell them if you want them to capture a full-length photo or a headshot, and how much of the background you want in the photo. Also give them some notice if you’re aiming to get a shot of you jumping in the air, or posing in a specific way. And ask them to make sure that you’re not blinking and your hair or makeup isn’t out of place when they’re taking your photo.
4. Choose the right person
Chances are, the passerby with a DSLR camera hanging around their neck is more experienced at taking photos than the average person.
5. Don’t leave until you get the photo you’re looking for
Make sure that you check your photos before you leave. If you’re on vacation and won’t be able to visit a certain spot again very easily, you need to be sure that you’re satisfied with the photos before you miss your chance. If need be, wait for your opportunity to ask a different person to help take your photo.
Bonus tip: Return the favour
To thank your photographer, ask if they would like a photo of themselves at that location, too. Make sure you follow the above tips and do your best to get a great photo of them, since they took the time to help you out.
Photo by Karen K. Tran/The Ontarion