Saturday, 15 January 2011

Self Portraits using a mirror.......

Hi there,

I have been snapping with my camera today, and it reminded me to write about a good (but obvious) method of taking self portraits using a mirror.

What you need:

A camera -  :-)
A tripod if you have one
A mirror
A remote shutter release device (also not essential, but helps with some shots.)

The thing about making them good is to consider the composition, and possibly use some of the settings on your camera to create some effects.

If you have a tripod, then set your camera up on this, and take some time to create a good and interesting background.  Now - this is personal preference, and I'm not a professional photographer, but I know what I like.  If you apply some other principles to your shots like the rule of thirds, then that can also help make your pictures more pleasing to the eye.

The rule of thirds states that if you split your composition into equal thirds, and have something interesting happening in each, a graduation of scale from one side to the other or your subject matter in one third, it is more pleasing to look at.

Another good effect is to set a longer exposure, and smaller aperture.  Do this in the knowledge that everything else in the frame will remain absolutely still, you can slightly move your head during the shot to create a good effect.  Also you could try using lighting to create interesting compositions.

I have included a couple of examples below.  I hope it inspires you to try some yourself.  If you do - please share them with us.




Best
Rich

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