10 Photography tips in Lockdown
As a family photographer I’m always taking photos of my children and now as we live through this historical period of self isolation and social distancing I’m finding it important to document how we as a family are adapting to life in lockdown. My kids may not remember Covid 19 same way as I do, so in 10 years’ time these photographs will be there to jog memories of when they were home schooled and started each day exercising to PE with Joe!
Over the last 2 weeks I have posted images to social media with some photography tips to inspire you to get shooting, here is my lockdown collection 2 weeks in!
1. Backlighting
Starting with our morning PE lesson with Joe Wicks and the ‘Mummy kicks’! With the main light source coming from behind our subject it makes for a great silhouette, and for me, a the perfect time for a black and white image.
2. Photograph when they’re not looking
If you’re capturing the real life goings on then a candid photo of them is best, don’t ask your kids smile for the camera each time!
3. Embrace the shadows
On a bright day the shadows will always add a little bit of extra interest to you photos.
4. Capture the action!
Thankfully we have a garden and we’ve had good weather so the badminton racquets and netball post have been put to good use. Try and get a low angle when you're taking these photos, it gives a different perspective and makes you feel like you're a bit closer to the action!
5. Frame your image
It’s end of week 1 in lockdown and for most of us the first time we've ever had to home school. With older children the internet seems to have most things covered off and learning still continues.
In your photograph, try including the door frame or window in your image. It shows a little bit of distance and makes an interesting composition!
6. Step back!
Cooking has been a big thing during lockdown, and it’s also an ideal time to document this activity whilst they're focused on something and not really thinking about where the camera is.
If you also take a step back from the scene it helps the viewer to get a sense of place and it also gives the moment some context.
7. Shoot from above
Reading has been on the homework agenda so instead of taking the photo straight on the try a different angle and shoot from above.
8. Seek the light (1)
Put your kids in front of a window (light is behind you) and give them a game to play. Just wait until someone is on a winning streak and you’ll get a very natural moment! Who do you think was winning here?!
9. Seek the light (2)
Yesterday my son had his karate lesson on line in the front room! He was still facing the light but in order to capture a different look I stood to the side instead.
10. Try a more creative angle
On the day we had ‘Clap for Carers’ I put out a simple message of thanks to my postman/ delivery man/ bin man etc who all come to my front door (and any others who might be passing by).
I had already taken a photo outside facing the window, then I thought about how I could represent the same image from a different viewpoint. Here’s the result, taken inside, low down and at an angle so the bottom line frames the image.
I encourage you all to take some photos – it doesn’t matter if you’re great with a camera or not, it’s having that record of this time that’s important.
Good luck and stay safe!
Celine x