Capturing those family moments..

We had a great weekend with our family. The weather was perfect and the Cove Palisades Park was the best backdrop for a family outing. I've always enjoyed finding that moment when the character or spirit of a person is exposed in their activity or face. When the shutter click captures that unguarded expression I'm pleased.

A couple of tips for you.
1. Have your camera set on an auto function so you don't have to worry about exposure, shutter speed or ISO. Use a telephoto lens if you have one. Always have it near but don't cling to it expectantly. You can create unease when you just click away make yourself the focus of activity. I tend to sit back out of the way and let the others enjoy themselves.
2. Know when a moment is about to happen. You know, when the kids begin a chase or when a political discussion is about to break out. Or how about aunt Mary's desert that is a delight for someone.
3. Shoot tight. What you're really looking for is the face or faces. The border activity can be distracting from the image you want to capture. On the other hand sometimes you need to activity for context. The best thing is to imagine what can happen and make a plan.

I'm sure you have your methods but if you're like me a reminder or different approach is helpful. Snapshots just happen.. a photograph is planned, is art and is more satisfying. With a little practice you can move from a snapshooter to a photographic artist. Try it!