Do you want to make the most of your 50th birthday? Find out how to make sure you get the best photos of your big day, by using our 50th Birthday Photography Tips! Whether you’re shooting on a DSLR camera, a phone or tablet or a webcam, there’s plenty you can do to improve your images. We’ve got all the help you need to take stunning photos of yourself and your friends and family, whatever their age.
1. Have fun with the setting
Make a point of getting close to your subject; that’s the best way to capture the best expressions and best moments. Try a variety of different backgrounds and locations, including your bedroom, your living room, your garden or even the park.
2. Use the light
If you have access to natural light, make use of it – the soft, diffuse light gives your shots a more natural look. If not, turn on a table lamp or light source so that you’re not in the dark. Also consider turning on an outside light to brighten up the picture, especially if it’s dark outside.
3. Take advantage of natural features
Turn any object into a prop by placing it against a wall or by the window, as well as having it in the foreground. Experiment with various props and textures – for instance, placing flowers against a window pane gives a very interesting effect.
4. Focus on a face
Shoot for eyes, cheeks, noses and mouths rather than the hair, arms and legs. This way you’ll avoid looking like a kid playing dress-up.
5. Add an element of colour
Keep it simple in terms of the colours you use. Avoid too much neon and other overly bright colours and, instead, stick to greys, blues, reds and greens. A single splash of red can add drama and pizzazz.
6. Play with the perspective
A simple tilt of the head, or the angle of a hand, can dramatically alter the image. Experiment with different angles and positions to get the perfect shot.
7. Look for depth
Try moving your subjects closer to or further away from the camera. Close-ups and wide-angle shots often produce interesting effects.
8. Try a candid shot
If you’re trying to get your subject to smile, it might be easier to snap a few photos quickly, without them being aware of what you’re doing. Alternatively, try asking a few friends and family members to pose for a group photo.
9. Turn the background to your advantage
Try cropping out the background and, instead, include it as a part of the composition. This can be as simple as taking a photo of a small area of the room, or it can involve having the entire room in focus.
10. Find the right expression
Think about what you’d like to capture on the day. Are you hoping for a formal portrait? Would you like to show off your personality? It’s important to get a balance of both, so play around until you find the right combination.
11. Don’t be afraid to experiment
You can always retouch your pictures later. Go for something different and unexpected on the day to ensure you get the best results.
12. Include props
Don’t forget to add props to your images – this can be as simple as holding a flower or a card. The key is to make sure they’re in a natural position and not too distracting.
13. Show your skills
If you have a passion for photography, consider adding some of your pictures to your social media sites. You could even take a few shots of friends and family for free, just for the fun of it.
14. Use the right technology
If you want to shoot with a DSLR camera, make sure it’s fully charged. Keep the battery level on the camera itself topped up, rather than leaving it plugged into the mains.
15. Get the right accessories
The more accessories you have, the more options you have. Consider using a flash, a tripod, a remote release and a polarising filter.
16. Be prepared
Make sure you’ve planned ahead and that you’re wearing the right clothes and having your hair done in the right way. Don’t forget to apply a bit of makeup and to brush your teeth.
17. Be organised
Having a plan in place will help you stay calm and focused on the day. Check your equipment and make sure you’re familiar with it.
18. Stay in control
You’re the photographer, so you’re the one who will decide how the photo is going to turn out. You need to be able to get the best out of your session, whether that’s through getting everyone to smile or being confident in your own abilities.
19. Have fun
This is the most important thing of all. After all, it’s your 50th birthday! So go out, have some fun and enjoy yourself.
20. Remember, the camera doesn’t lie
Don’t be afraid to admit that you made a mistake. Try not to dwell on it, though. It’s a learning experience and there are many ways of improving your technique in the future.