Choose the Right Camera and Lens
Consider carefully the most suitable camera and lens for you. For optimum quality, a SLR (single lens reflex) or a DSLR (Digital SLR) camera is best.. As for the lens, ask yourself: what do you photograph most? If you prefer landscape photography, you’ll likely need a lens with a short focal length for wide-angled shots. But for a wide range of shots then a standard zoom lens with a 28:80 variable focal length will allow you to keep your options open without carting dozens of lenses around with you.
Select the Correct Mode
You’ve got your camera, now it’s time to digest the manual. Learning how to select the best mode will enhance your compositions beyond all expectations The first thing any budding photographer should familiarize themselves with is the exposure triangle, discussing the relationship between aperture, ISO and shutter speed. The aperture affects how much of the shot is in focus, ISO affects the light sensitivity and can introduce visual noise and the shutter speed affects how moving objects are captured and how blurry the shot it. If you manually set one of the exposure triangle’s settings, then a lot of camera’s will automatically suggest the best setting for the other two, allowing you to get to grips with the concept, until you are confident enough to tackle the triangle on your own.
Employ Timer Function
Especially on longer-exposed shots, it helps if you get in the habit of setting your camera on a flat, stable surface and using the timer function. However still you think you’re holding it, there’s always a steadier surface.
Tripod Stability for Better Shots
For optimal photos, try using a tripod. Not only can you set the level of your camera on pretty much any terrain, it’ll all but eliminate the shake caused by the mechanical movements inside some cameras: the shutter curtains opening and closing, and the mirror flipping up and down, can both lead to camera shake and sub-optimal pictures.
Don’t Forget the Memory
Bring plenty of memory cards with you. They’ll be more expensive both ashore and aboard most cruises, and you can snap away without having to worry about those emergency deletes to create space to record the next day in paradise!
To truly capture the magic of your cruise, ditch the smartphones and tablets, with a decent camera and these few tips, you’ll be a pro in no time and you’ll bring home some priceless pictures.
(Photo by roel_van_deursen via Flickr)
Article written by Roxy