How to take a good photo
- Determine the nature of the picture
How is the photo going to be used? Try to envision the finished product on the website or in the newsletter in which you plan to publish it. If it is to accompany a fun story about an alumnus, make sure your photo is not too serious. The tone of the image should match that of the publication.
- Choose the background
Just as you matched the tone of the subject to the project message, match the background to the tone. When you’re taking a photo, it’s easy to focus on the subject and not the other objects in the screen. Take a look behind your subject: if you’re shooting a group of students and there is a pole or tree appearing to stick out of one of their heads, move the students and retake the picture. A cluttered background can take away from a picture.
- Find the right lighting
Perhaps the most commonly made mistake, proper lighting is essential to creating the perfect photograph. If people are the subject of your photo, avoid direct sunlight, which can create undesirable shadows. Instead, try to shoot on overcast days. For scenic photos, morning and evening provide the best lighting.
- Adjust your camera settings
It is vital to shoot your photos at the highest quality setting your camera allows, especially if you plan to publish the images in any media. Most digital cameras have automatic settings that can be changed manually, often to the benefit of your pictures. Check the settings and make sure you are shooting at the highest quality possible.
- Obtain signed photo release forms when necessary
All photographers taking photographs on University property or during University events must obtain a signed release form from any person (student, faculty, staff, community member, or program participant) who is visibly recognizable in the photograph. Photos of minors (under the age of 18) require a release signed by a parent or legal guardian. This release applies to all photographs intended for use in any University publication, informational or promotional in nature: newsletters, websites, fact sheets, news stories, press releases, brochures, view books, promotional items or other such material. A release is not needed when photographs are taken of news events, but news event photographs intended for re-use in promotional materials require a release. If no single person is the dominant feature (e.g., crowd scenes) a photo release is not required.
Download the Photo Release Form (PDF) - Prep your subject for the photo
Simplicity is the key to a successful portrait. When possible, prepare your subject before they show up to a photo shoot, using these suggestions on appearance as a guide.