PHOTO JOURNALS

Wouldn't it be great to capture the memories of the excitement and fun of your trip. Well, now you can! Here are a few tips to help you become a better outdoor photographer.

Express yourself - Photography is a personal expression. Photograph the images that interest you...People, Landscapes, Emotions, Signs, Specific Objects, Activities, Everyday moments, etc. BE CREATIVE. Use your imagination.

Experiment - Take photos with various lenses. Work with different angles. Zoom in close. Photograph from above the subject. Use different lighting. Various weather conditions can create some very unique and dramatic photos.

Keep colors to a minimum - Use the proper film and consider the use of filters.

Keep it Simple - Reduce clutter and confusion. Get closer to your subject. Get particularly close when taking pictures of people.

Look for unusual views - of familiar subjects. Hike to unique vantage points.

Make a visual impact with each photo - Take the time to compose a great picture. You want each one to communicate a feeling. A little patience can make for a great photograph.

Take pictures of people within your scenery - This makes the photo feel more real and also gives the landscape a measurable perspective. Don't forget to put yourself in some of the photos. Use a tripod, a rock or have someone else take the picture.

Tell a Story - A picture is worth a thousand words. Each photo shows a different interpretation of the moment. What is your interpretation?

Use a Small Camera - Keep it hany for those unexpected moments.

Use good light - The best time to take pictures is during the "magic hours" of the day - an hour or two after sunrise and before sunset. This natural light is warmer - almost a golden tone. Use your flash as needed, but remember that it is only effective when used within eight to ten feet of your subject. Campfire photos make for interesting portraits with the glow of the flames. Be sure to use fast film and don't focus directly on the light of the campfire.

Give your kids the camera - Give them a disposal camera and let them take their own pictures.

Have Fun!

With creativity and patience, you can easily compile a photo journal for each of your trips.? Organizing your photo journal is a great project for kids after you return home!

Once completed, your photo journal will help you recall those special moments and relive the memories, long after your trip is over.