TIPS ON ANIMAL PHOTOGRAPHY / TOP TIPS ON TAKING PHOTOS / THE EYES TIPS

You will find that many images which jump out at you are the ones focusing on the eyes. One of the most important photography tips to pass on is how to make them the very best when taking your photographs.

Focus

Make sure the eyes are in focus. If you are using a shallow depth of field then make sure you focus on the eyes and then re-frame the shot before taking it.

Note that the eyes are the easiest part of a photograph to judge sharpness and focus so make them the focal point when you are shooting. Try using your thirds if have the capability on your camera or just remember the rule of thirds.  Remember that the upper third of an image is where the eyes should start.

Direction

Have the person or animal looking directly into or at the lens. This has the most impact on the viewer.  Results of these images are that the eyes follow you wherever you go in the room.  If the person or animal is not looking into the lens be aware that this will draw the eye to where the focus point is that is not on the image, unless that is your intent during shooting.

Photoshop Program

During post processing of my images which are shot in RAW, I will sometimes brighten the eyes in Photoshop or Photoscape to ensure that they are sharp, clear and clarity of the color stands out.  You donā€™t need to do much if you follow the key points for taking images of the eyes listed here but it is nice to have programs like these available if needed.

Weather and Elements

When shooting your images ensure that the subject is not squinting or blinking due to sun directly in their eyes.  Position the subject where the light is used as a background or it is off to the side indirectly or directly above the subject so that squinting does not occur. 

 Props and Other Items

Props can add an element to your photography that can either enhance or take away from the main focal point which is your subject you are photographing.  You can use these items but make sure that the items do not hide, shadow or cover the eyes when shooting.  Sometimes a shimmering scarf covering a persons head will be enough to bring out the colors of the persons skin and eyes so be aware of what colors the props are.  Other times a prop can be too big or busy which will attract the viewers eyes away from the subject.  Place them accordingly and test out different types of shooting methods when using props.

 Close and Personal

To get a really close image of eyes you need to ensure that nothing retracts from the focus of the eyes.  Objects reflect in eyes and can take away quality of the image or it can enhance if you are looking for an artistic slant to show something reflected.  Blinking is common so you might have to take a few shots before you get the right one.  Flashes can also have an effect on a close up of eyes so watch for the glaring reflection when the flash goes off.  If you have an external flash try tilting it to a 45 degree angle so that the flash is less and dissipates away from the subject.  You can also use filters and many external flashes have built in filters to soften the flash.