One of the most common problems that many new photographers have is "camera shake". That is where the image seems blurry, usually because the camera was not held still enough while you held the button down. Even small movements of the camera can cause it.
Adding to camera shake is a technique that is increasingly common with digital camera users, holding the camera at arms length, looking at the shot in a video screen and taking the shot, often with one hand. While it might be good way to frame your shot, the further away from your body you hold the camera the more chance you have of getting the dreaded camera shake and blurry pictures.
First shot taken from arms length away Second shot taken with viewfinder next to the body.
While it can be tempting to shoot one handed a two hands will increase your stillness, but exactly how you should grip your camera will depend on what type of camera you are using. There is no right or wrong way to do it but here are some techniques that you could try to have a steadier shot:
- Use your right hand to grip the right hand end of your camera
- The position of your left hand should support the weight of the camera and will either sit underneath the camera or under/around a lens if you have a DSLR
- If you're using the view finder (if your camera has one I would always us that)to line up your shots you'll have the camera nice and close into your body which will add extra stability but if you're camera only uses an LCD make sure you don't hold your camera too far away from you. Tuck your elbows into your sides and lean the camera our a little from your face.
- Add extra stability by leaning against a solid object.
- Be conscious of your breathing, it's amazing how much a body rises and falls simply breathing
The stiller you can keep your body the stiller the camera will be.