It’s raining here, hence today’s Phlog inspiration.

Being stuck inside on a rainy day is not an excuse to think there’s nothing to do with your camera. Then again, going out in the rain is a whole new world of interesting photo ops!

Back at the Sharing Digital Photography forums we had a “From Where You Stand” challenge to pick up your camera and shoot something from that very spot. Turned out well with the intention of demonstrating that photo opportunities are all around us.

The main shot for this topic (above colored pencils) was taken a few years back on a kitchen counter with one of those under-cabinet lights as the source lighting. It was a fun experience and still one of my favorites. Along the way since, many assumed it was some kind of studio environment.

Shooting still life photos of any kind indoors goes well with a tripod as indoor light is most always not enough to achieve fast shutter speeds where we can handhold the camera. You know the dreaded blur from “Camera Shake”. Using a tripod means you don’t have to be concerned with ISO sensitivity either, adding that digital graininess associated with higher ISO settings. Another tip when using a tripod where you know the exposure will be kind of long and not conducive to a handheld shot, is to use the self timer. This way, your hands are off the camera when the shutter goes off with no risk of movement causing blur from the pressure of pushing the shutter release button down. Every digital camera  has the Self TImer feature.

Marc’s DP Tip: The yellow roses (left) were shot on a kitchen table facing a window at an angle using a macro lens (Sigma 70-300mm APO Super Marco). When shooting macro consider turning  the switch on the lens to “Manual” focus if the Auto Focus tends to wonder, zooming in and out continually. This way you can set the narrow area of focus in just the right place.

Using a tripod also let’s you take advantage of soft light through a window. You can really drum up some beautiful floral shots. Don’t think for a minute you need to have an digital SLR to merit getting a tripod. You might start out with something very affordable able to handle the weight of your camera easily for well under $50. I had one with a plastic tilt and pan head that served me well when I was starting out having fun with digital photography.

Taking the shot

Take everything into consideration like moving your subject near a window, turning it at different angles and distances in relationship to that light and you shooting from different positions also. It’s a great way to learn and build your experience while getting to know the effects of low light light. On overcast and rainy days, the light will be softer and more delicate.

Your subject can be anything. An apple, a shoe, an egg, a crayon or any favorite object. Take something ordinary and make extraordinary.

Have fun with it! Shoot, share and learn.

Now “stay inside” and find something you never noticed before.

See you back at the Sharing Digital Photography Worldwide Forums!

Best regards,

Marc