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Getting Ready For Spring Photography

Tips and Techniques to Get Back into Photography

Feb 18, 2009 Cody Todd

If you're like most photo enthusiasts, you've spent the long winter days longing for a chance to get outside and snap away again.

You might feel a bit rusty when it comes to looking through the viewfinder. Don't despair; help has arrived. The two most important things to revive before heading out in the balmy spring weather to shoot photographs is your familiarity with the controls and functions of your camera and retraining your photographer's eye.

Reintroducing yourself to your camera in the spring is always a good practice. How do you set the macro function? What is the procedure for flash compensation, again? A quick glance through the camera manual and a few minutes (or hours if so desired) handling the camera and playing around with settings and menus will refresh your memory.

Holding the camera may also get the creative juices flowing early.

The Photographic Eye

Retuning your photographic eye is nothing more than remembering to be sensitive to the quality of light, composition, colour and motion. The easiest way to get the mind back into the photographic set is by looking at photographs by the masters. Pick up a photo book or two from the bookstore, library or even off your bookshelf and study the photographs. Look for the techniques used. What makes the photograph work?

It's also a good idea to check over all your gear for any maintenance needed. A gentle cleaning of lenses and camera ensures everything is ready to get back into action.

Start Photographing Now

Getting back into action is key. Don't wait for the perfect day to go out and photograph. Just get out there and get back into the habit of pushing the shutter button. Expect some failures at first. Despite going through a spring warm up, you will still find yourself thinking and shooting like a rookie for the first few outings.

Besides, the first couple weeks are an opportunity to test out any new techniques you might have studied during the off-season. You might also be getting familiar with a new piece of equipment such as a shiny new lens that appeared under the Christmas tree (those lucky few).

Just a few other points to remember before heading out

1. Wear a good pair of shoes or boots. You're going to be logging a lot of miles.
2. Dress in layers. While it may feel warm, spring weather can change quickly.
3. You don't have to go far to find those photographs. Your backyard is full of interesting and surprising things. Especially with the changes spring brings.

And remember, it's been a long, dark winter but spring is around the corner and with it a new season full of light. Go out and capture it.

The copyright of the article Getting Ready For Spring Photography in Photography is owned by Cody Todd. Permission to republish Getting Ready For Spring Photography in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.