Resolution #4:
Take more photos.
Guest Blog Post by Kim Smith 

Hi! I think it's really great that a lot of people put 'take more photos' on their New Year's Resolutions, but it makes me a little sad that it doesn't always happen (I'm just as guilty sometimes!)- so that's why I'm excited to share some tips with you. I promise you can make it work if you really want it to! I've been taking my camera with me everywhere for nearly 5 years and it's probably the best gift to myself I've ever thought of doing. 

Here are a few tips that I put together for my photography class last summer. It's pretty common sense advice, but sometimes you have to live it, to learn it. [: They are mainly about how to get out there and shoot more of your life & friends.

If you want to really get 'into the action' the first thing you need to do is take your camera EVERYWHERE with you.

The second thing is this:  taking into consideration all of your photo knowledge- all the technical stuff, and your vision for what a picture is going to be- that's a lot of pressure and a lot of things to look out for. I want you to take a deep breath, close your eyes and take a picture! Does it look crap? Probably. Isn't that exciting!

If you're going to be shooting in the real world, you need to loosen up. Keep those tricks you've learnt throughout your picture taking life up your sleeve, but don't be afraid to hold the camera above your head and snap!

Ideal times:

On the street, in front of nice walls, restaurants, clubs, people's houses, coffee shops, parks, in fields, forests, special occasions, when you're just 'chillin', pretty much anytime- anywhere! 

Prove to friends that you're not going to make them look ugly:

Talk them through it.

Give them hints on what to do/where to look.

Always and Only post photos where people look good (Unless of course it's for jokes and it good spirited and everyone agrees). This will give them confidence in you, and also prove to them that you're not going to embarrass them. After all, you've got control.

TAKE LOTS OF PHOTOS.

Do some 'warm up' shots where you get everyone in front of the camera. Start snapping STRAIGHT AWAY and don't stop. Get them to make silly faces, do vouge, look to the left, give a mean face, ride a rollercoaster arms. ANYTHING. Make it comical and light hearted and tell them that this is just a warm up and they 'dont count'. You may get some nice shots, or it may just get them more relaxed. SLOWLY ease them into the real shoot, by tring new things and before you know it, you're making magic. Take lots of photos! Seriously, try shooting before people are ready, or when they are laughing just after you've taken a shot. Get people off guard and don't always shoot the person you're talking to (get those nice conversations across the room). Have the camera in your hand, or your lap or on the table next to you all the time- so you're ready!

PASS THE CAMERA.

This is a great way to get people to feel more in control and also take the spotlight off of them- especially if you're with a group of friends. Bring an extra camera with you, that you don't mind people playing with and pass it around, let people take photos- show them how your camera works and talk through what you like to shoot. Tell them you hate those ugly posey photos where people lean in and smile like they've just won Miss America- give them the camera and give them a big grin and then relax and let them try and 'capture' you. Then it'll be your turn and you can get what you want. You may even end up with some half decent photos of yourself which is always a bonus- this is how i get most of the photos of me. I just act normal and people will end up asking for the camera sometimes- it's really nice to go home and see what people have thought was picture worthy (although sometimes, it's rubbish. haha!).

SHOW THEM THE BACK:

If you're shooting with digital this can be really handy. But, try not to get carried away with looking through ALL the shots. Afterall, that's what computers are for. You're there to have a good time and take a few snaps and make some smiles. If someone is nervous about how they look, or there is a great shot you can't wait to share, show people! It's loosens everyone up and they can see what you 'see'.

WHAT TO BRING?

Remember to have an extra battery (and memory card if you're going away for a while). Remember to bring extra film if you need it. Take your time to choose the settings you're comfortable with. Don't bring the whole camera store (i.e. you'll probably only need the lens you've got. 

Look Out Below:

If you're walkin' and shootin' PLEASE watch your step. Keep your camera around your neck or wrapped around your wrist for a little protection cause it'll 'only be good for half a bounce' as my old teacher used to say. But, seriously watch were you are going cause if you fall, the camera falls with you.

:] I hope that helps some of you out there! I know that Mandi said this summer that she wanted to take more photos and I've been so pleased with her fun posts of her and her friends. I'm trying not to sound cheesy but- good job! haha