Pictures Worth Taking
 
When you visit a national park you will see so many things, some completely new to you and your travel partners. The one thing you do not want to forget is a CAMERA! I remember when I vacationed at Zion National Park one summer with friends. It was an 8 hour drive down and when we got there I realized I didn’t bring my camera.Â
It was so disappointing! I “settled” for two disposible camera’s I bought at the gift shop later that day; one for normal pictures and one with a panaramic capability. The trip to Zion’s was amazing, with long stretching vista’s and stunning horizons. Everytime I took a shot I wondered how it would turn out. To my surprise and delight when I got the pictures developed about a week after I got home they were all wonderful!Â
Taking a good picture depends first and formost on HOW you take it. Following are a few tips to getting a great shot; regardless of the type of camera you use:
1) Focus in on your subject. If it is three feet tall get down on your knees. If it is up a tree try standing on a tall object like a stump (or climb up a nearby tree if it’s an option).Â
2) Use a plain background, if at all possible.
3) Go ahead an use a flash outdoors. A flash will brighten dark or shaded areas of your subject and help them stand out from the background.
4) Move in close. Step right up to your subject or if you have a close up lense use it to create an impactful picture.
5) Take some verticle pictures; whether you are looking up at one of Yosemite’s waterfalls or up a granite rock mountainside a verticle (turning the camera sideways) picture will be sure to capture as much of the scene as possible.
6) Move it from the middle. Placing your subject off center brings your picture to life.Â
7) Take your time. Try out different angles, if possible try different posses of people or animals in your shot.
Following these simple steps will help you take pictures that won’t disappoint you and keep the memories you’ve made alive.