How To Use A Camera

When taking pictures for a family function, event, or vacation, you'll want to know how to use a camera to get the best photos possible. No one wants to look at their pictures and see that their cherished memories are ruined by poor lighting, a misplaced thumb, or a cut off head. Whether you're using a traditional camera or a digital one, the basic rules of how to use a camera still apply.

What you'll need to use a camera:

• Camera
• Film (depending on camera type)

1. Select your camera. The first part of learning how to use a camera is to determine what type of camera you'll be using. Although many people have opted for the ease and convenience of cell phone cameras, there are other options that are readily available such as traditional cameras, digital cameras, and disposable cameras.
2. Position your subject. Now that you've decided on what type of camera you'll use, you'll want to get the subject of your photo in the right position. Have them stand in a position that is flattering and that has little interference from background lighting, passerbys, or dark shadows. If your subject is inanimate, position yourself in the best angle to get a favorable shot.
3. Consider the lighting. Are you taking the picture during the brightness of day? Is it dark outside or dusk? When using a camera, lighting is everything. If it is dark, dusk, or there is dim indoor lighting, you'll need to use your flash. This is usually a button that will need to be pressed several seconds before taking the picture and will normally have an indicator light or icon to let you know when it is ready.
4. Take aim. When you are ready to take the picture, hold the camera up to your dominant eye when using a traditional camera, or hold it out in front of you when using a digital or cell phone camera. When looking at the screen, make sure that you have everything and everyone you want in the picture centered and in position. Take care to get the complete view and not cut off any important parts of your subject.
5. Take the shot. When you've centered the subject, the only thing left is to take the picture. When taking a picture of people, it's always best to give forewarning before snapping the shot to insure that everyone is looking where they should be.
6. Save the picture. After you've taken the shot, the last step when learning how to use a camera is to save the picture. This varies depending on what type of camera you are using. For traditional cameras, it may be just a matter of advancing the film by moving a dial. For digital cameras or cell phones, you may need to press an icon or button to save the film before taking another.