Why are my pictures always so blurry?
There are a few things that will usually effect both the quality and sharpness of a photograph:
- Light
- Camera settings (ISO, aperture, shutter speed)
- Movement of the subject
- Movement of the photographer
- Quality of the camera itself (phone, DSLR)
The worst-case scenario might be that you might be trying to photograph something moving like a child in a dimly lit room using the camera on your phone. I have been in this situation so many times and to be honest I just will not to get a sharp image!
What can you do to take better photographs?
The really good news is that you do not need to get a professional camera to take sharp photographs. There are situations where it’s important to have the right camera and lenses for the job, such as at a wedding or another important once in a life time occasion. Photographing the bride coming down the aisle in a dark church requires expertise and the proper equipment.
However, having said that you can and should keep photographing your children with your phone and get good results.
Simple tips and tricks
The tips below are simple ways you can improve your photographs and have a higher hit rate. You can of course combine all the tips!
- Get more light. The more you have available, the more chances you have to get a good sharp photograph. Outdoor is best, but you can also photograph your children by a window at home. Even with a phone camera and a moving child, you should be able to get sharp photographs, if the amount of light is good.
- Use a flash. Is a great way to get sharp photographs indoors. However, the result isn’t always that nice, in my opinion (white faces, red eyes). To top it off it really does change the feel of any photo….
- Wait until the subject is still. Depending on what you are trying to capture, if you can wait until your subject is still to take the photo you will have a better chance of a sharp photo.
- Don’t move. If you are moving while trying to take a photograph, this will also result in motion blur.
- Learn to use your camera. You may already have a good camera but never got around to learning the settings. If you choose to use the AUTO mode all the time, you will get OK photos, but knowing how ISO, Aperture and Shutter Speeds affect your photographs will help you take so much better ones.
Bonus tip: You can always take a video or just embrace the blur like in this posts featured photo, after all the roundabout was spinning here 🙂
Surrey-based photography one-on-one workshops for parents
If you own a DSLR but are still not sure how to use it and would like to document those everyday moments with your family. Then I have excellent news for you! I offer bespoke one-on-one photography tuition. Everybody learns in different ways – some people like to understand the technical stuff, and others want more practical guidance. I will tailor my teaching to you, however you learn best. So whether you’re a total beginner or a keen hobbyist looking to take your photography to the next level, I’d love to help you out.
If you would like to know more contact me and I will get straight back to you.
Remember, the images that you’re creating now will be absolutely priceless to your children one day.
