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Welcome to these magic moments, those special times that you want to capture and keep.
Those moments when a single image can bring back a wealth of good memories.
This visual guide will lead you through some of those special moments
and show how you too can capture them by just following some simple rules with your camera.
You'll learn that what really counts is your being there and being ready to capture the moment.
Because it's you who makes the difference.
It's the person behind the camera who brings the picture to life.
In this program, we'll start with some basic tips to improve your picture taking.
Then we'll go on location with other snapshooters
and see how they use these tips to capture their magic moments.
You'll be able to review these tips over and over,
especially before an important event for which you'll want a refresher.
Let's start by looking at some simple guidelines that can help you take better and more exciting pictures.
Let's get into some of the features of the camera itself.
There are a few things you should be aware of to make the most of your camera's capabilities.
Specific details are covered in the instruction manual for your camera.
Never load your camera in direct sunlight.
Turning your body creates a shaded area that keeps direct sunlight off the film.
Be sure that the lens is free of dust or smudges.
A dirty camera lens will make your pictures appear out of focus and fuzzy.
Always use lens cleaning tissue and fluid made specifically for cameras to prevent damaging your lens.
Many cameras are auto-focusing.
That means that the camera will focus itself on whatever is in the very center of the viewfinder.
As the picture taker, you have to remember this when you want to frame the picture with a subject off to one side.
Because the center of the viewfinder is pointing to the background,
the camera will focus on that, leaving the subject out of focus.
To focus on the subject, simply move the camera so that the autofocus frame mark in the viewfinder is on the subject.
Lock the focus by pressing the shutter release halfway.
Then frame the picture the way you want it and gently press the shutter release all the way.
Be sure not to jar the camera when you gently squeeze the shutter release.
It's important to hold the camera steady to make the sharpest picture possible and avoid any blur from camera movement.
Have you ever seen the twinkle of camera flashes during ceremonies at the Rose Bowl or other night events?
Well, those flashes generally won't do any good with simple cameras.
The action is beyond the flash distance range.
It's simply too far away.
A built-in flash can seldom light subjects beyond 20 feet.
See your camera instruction manual for the flash distance range of your camera and film being used.
In this picture, the little girl in the foreground appears washed out because she's too close to the flash.
You can correct this by having your subjects approximately the same distance from your camera.
You'll find the fill flash feature on your camera handy when the main subject has less light falling on it than the surrounding area and background.
As a result, the subject appears too dark or underexposed.
To correct this and add sparkle to scenes like these, use your fill flash.
Now for some advice about composition.
Always bear in mind that it's up to you to determine the way a picture will be framed.
You can enhance your picture-taking by remembering these tips.
Many pictures are taken with the subject centered.
These photos can be improved by simply placing the main subject off-center.
The way to understand this is to use the rule of thirds.
This refers to an imaginary grid in your viewfinder like this.
Try to place your subject where the lines intersect.
You can also use the rule of thirds to place horizon lines.
Horizon lines placed directly in the center of the photo are seldom as visually pleasing as those placed using the imaginary grid.
Simply tilt your camera up or down to create a more interesting picture.
Look for objects behind your subjects like light poles and lamps.
These objects can cause mergers and look like they're growing out of people's heads.
Here the water tower is merging from the child's head.
The picture-taker is probably too involved with her subject to notice the background and won't be too happy when the pictures come back.
This merger could have been avoided by simply moving to another angle.
Horizon lines are another merger to watch for.
Raise or lower your camera angle so that the horizon doesn't line up with your subject's head.
There, a better photo and a happier photographer.
Move in close to your subject.
This adds impact and eliminates distracting background objects.
Check your manual for the minimum focus distance.
Most autofocus cameras can't focus closer than three feet and some no closer than five feet.
Look for interesting and different angles like getting below or above your subject.
Light is the basis for all picture-taking.
Front lighting is even and tends to be somewhat flat and fully reveals the subject.
Side lighting illuminates the side of the subject emphasizing form and texture.
Side lighting can add a three-dimensional quality to your pictures.
With back lighting, the light source is behind the subject.
It separates the subject from its surroundings with a rim of light.
Don't put your camera away on overcast days.
This light creates soft shadows and pleasing results.
Those are just some of the many tips that can make your pictures more interesting and make showing them more fun.
As we move into each segment of this program, we'll point out examples of these tips and techniques to help you capture those magic moments.
Now let's take a trip to Florida and join a family on vacation at SeaWorld.
As you travel to places like SeaWorld, you'll want to take advantage of the characters like Shamu that appear at the parks.
Get the family involved with the character and encourage your subjects to have fun with the situation.
Here, Dad takes a vertical picture to get the whole family in.
Family vacations are an ideal time to capture the whole family and to remember the event vividly.
It's not every day that you get to feed a dolphin.
So remember to take several shots and be watchful to capture them as they jump up to catch the fish.
Mom, can I take a picture of the dolphin with the camera?
Sure.
Get the whole family involved.
Even your youngsters can get into the act of picture taking.
There you go.
God, maybe give me five.
God, you're messing my hair up.
Listen to me, do you know your lines?
If you don't know your lines, the least you can do is come out here and give everyone a big smile.
At performances, try to get a good overall picture to take back as part of your story.
And don't forget to capture the expressions of the kids as they react to these clowns of the sea.
At performances like this, it's great to become part of the action.
When taking pictures, don't be afraid to quickly get in close while not being too obstructive of the other viewers.
Take several quick shots to get a feel for the action.
A sequence of pictures helps tell the story.
Look for opportunities to take fun pictures.
These hats offer the perfect setting for colorful and happy expressions.
There are many events to enjoy at SeaWorld, and always having the camera ready ensures that you won't miss any of those great pictures.
On their way to the Shamu show, Dad realized an opportunity to include a sign that helps to tell the story.
Go one step further and get everyone in the picture by asking a passerby to help out.
A quick explanation of your camera is all most people need to help you get the picture of the whole family.
Here, by having the camera ready, even when on stage, Dad is able to capture this event firsthand.
From SeaWorld, we follow our family to the amusements at Boardwalk and Baseball Theme Park.
From daylight to dusk, there are many opportunities to take pictures.
As we walk through the Hall of Fame, we get some interesting pictures with the memorabilia of baseball.
But they're behind glass, and the flash causes a glare if we stand directly in front and take a picture.
We need to move to the side when using flash in a situation like this.
By moving to the side, we change our angle to the glass and eliminate the reflection.
After a look at the history of baseball, we get a chance to capture some history in the making.
Well, at 43 miles per hour, he may not be Major League, but just wait 10 years and he'll get a chuckle when he looks back at these pictures, maybe in an official Yankees uniform.
There's something to occupy every interest here, and when they're involved, you can get some really natural expressions from your kids.
Before the ride gets started, get a quick shot of the excited anticipation in the eyes of your child.
When shooting action like this log flume, try to locate a good vantage point from which to take your pictures.
That way, you can really capture the excitement of the ride.
When you have a colorful subject like these ice pops, they present a picture opportunity.
Be careful, though, because the camera focuses on what is in the center of the frame.
Center one of your subjects in the viewfinder, lock the focus, reframe your photo, and capture the moment.
When photographing moving rides, it's important to hold your camera steady and wait until the right moment to squeeze the shutter release.
At times, you may want to pan with the ride.
This means that you move your camera slowly in the direction that the subject is going.
By doing so, you can freeze the action.
And when you go to the evening Wild West show, your camera will be loaded and ready to catch the action.
The best time to snap your pictures is when the spotlights focus on the action.
From the fun of the Ferris wheel to the excitement of the Wild West show, these pictures can bring back the magic moments of your vacation.
You don't have to go far from home to capture magic moments.
Parties like birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations provide great picture opportunities right in your home.
Here again, we can tell a story with our pictures.
Start with shooting the cake before it's brought out, and then carry the idea through to blowing out candles, enjoying the cake, and just the fun of the whole event.
If your camera is one with auto-advance, take advantage of that feature by moving in close and shooting a sequence of pictures.
This way, you'll be sure to get that winning picture for your album.
Adding the clown to this party gave mom a chance to get some exciting and colorful candid pictures.
Remember to get down at kid level to be sure you get the event from their perspective and to capture their expressions.
You'll be surprised at the great pictures kids can take.
And remember to keep a watchful eye out for those special moments and those kids who had too much excitement.
Special moments can happen at any time.
Let's take a look at how this snapshot was made.
It's the un-posed fun time like this that makes for really special pictures.
Talking with your kids and encouraging their actions helps to keep them interested.
For correctly exposed flash pictures, make sure you wait for the flash-ready light to glow before you snap your next picture.
Extra bubbles, creative camera angles, and your imagination make for great bathtub pictures.
Some old hats, dresses, and lipstick gave mom a great opportunity for magic moments.
In situations like this, kids are eager to have their pictures taken in their dress-up outfits.
Start with an overall view to show the children in their bedroom.
Then move in slowly to get close-ups of their expressions.
Sunsets create magic moments for every picture-taker.
You can improve the drama and mystery by including people and other subjects that become silhouettes against the sky.
Your camera will do a great job with these scenes.
Special moments are around us all the time.
They can be humorous, touching, and poignant.
Be aware of things around you, like the things that animals do.
Or those unexpected moments when having a camera ready can make the difference between getting the picture and missing it.
Skateboarding is a perfect subject for action photos.
The camera's auto-winder makes it easy to keep up with the action.
This young snapshooter is working to capture the action at its peak.
Keep shooting to be sure you get the one you want.
Don't forget that it's fun to have a group picture, and one way to get everyone in is to use the self-timer that's built into the camera.
Just set your camera on a stationary object, frame your subjects, press the button, and dash into the picture.
Whenever you travel to a new city, it's a good idea to be prepared for the treasures that the city can provide.
Special events, interesting locales, and unique features of a city should be noted in advance to get the most out of the trip.
Your picture-taking opportunities can also be planned, and a simple checklist can help you be sure you don't forget anything.
Take along extra film.
Take along a set of extra batteries, lens tissue, and cleaner.
Acquire maps, city guides, and brochures to plan your picture-taking activities.
Pack your film in a clear plastic bag to allow easy hand inspection at the airport.
It's a good idea to avoid putting your film through the x-ray machine.
Have your camera checked by a camera shop before you leave.
And take along a camera bag to keep your equipment together and with you at all times.
The Jefferson Memorial is a centerpiece of the monuments in Washington, D.C.
By starting your day early, you can catch the shadows and the variation of light to give greater form and shape to the details of the monument.
Adding a person to this scene shows the size of this historic monument.
Okay, I got it.
A distant view of the Jefferson Memorial seems to complete our picture story.
But with a second look, our picture-taker finds a better composition when he moves back to frame the monument with the foreground trees.
Including his companion adds human interest to the picture.
The most impressive part of the Capitol building is its dome.
To highlight the dome, the picture-taker surrounded it with a frame of leaves, which also adds depth to the picture.
Were you really in Washington?
People will never really be sure unless you're in one of the pictures.
Ask a passerby to take a picture of you in front of the Capitol building.
People are always glad to help a fellow traveler.
Because you never know when you'll need an extra roll of film, it helps to keep one handy throughout your travels.
Remember to be sure you turn your body from the sun to protect the film from the bright sunlight as you load the camera.
At the Majestic Lincoln Memorial, look for different angles to tell a more interesting story.
And be patient, because these monuments attract many people.
And when you emerge from the memorial, use the high vantage point to take a panoramic photo overlooking the reflecting pool with the Washington Monument in the distance.
Once again, remember to use the rule of thirds to place your horizon line.
Here in Georgetown, we discover the history and detail of this quaint part of Washington, D.C., to complete our travel album.
Take the time to walk along the canal and take in the historic homes.
Don't forget closer views of doorways and other architectural detail.
With flash, it's easy to shoot magic moments in a hat shop.
Moving in close and shooting several pictures will ensure the best expression.
Buying a kite is only half the fun.
Flying it in front of the Washington Monument is the payoff.
No matter what you do, the key to good picture taking is to be aware of all that's new and different around you.
And traveling to different cities always stimulates the visual senses.
A quiet moment on the lake can turn into a bustle of excitement, and in this case, Grandpa was ready to capture the moment.
And this time, thanks to photography, this fish didn't get away.
Okay, come on, Grandpa, two fishermen.
Hey, get a picture of the lure.
Okay, great.
And Mom can take advantage of the get-together by catching the two fishermen in a triumphant portrait.
And be sure to get in close to see their faces.
Springtime in the Carolinas is great for fishing and a colorful place to celebrate Easter.
Preparing the eggs for Easter makes for some fun pictures.
Because the kids are involved and proud of their creations, they'll make very willing subjects.
Decorating the Easter tree is a way to get everyone in the family into the picture.
Move around for some candid shots.
It's a great chance to capture everyone.
And don't forget the family dog.
When the Easter egg hunt finally arrives, you can feel the excitement in the air and see it in the faces of the hunters.
Take pictures before the race starts, because it might be hard to keep up with the action later.
On Easter Sunday, it's a mad dash for the baskets hidden at home.
Don't show me.
I found it!
These are the moments of which memories are made.
Gathering together for Easter dinner is a great end to our holiday story.
Ready for dinner?
Let's take a picture here, guys, before we start eating.
No, the dinner and you guys.
Okay, go back over there to your grandpa.
Derek, you get up and pull right in there.
Chris, you go around and go beside Derek.
That's great.
Okay, mom.
Come on, you guys.
Come on here, Chris.
Okay.
Now where's my fisherman hair?
There we go.
With everyone here, now is the time to take that special picture of the whole family.
Pull everyone in close and pose them in front of an uncluttered background.
Arrange the group tightly so you can see all their faces.
And while you've got them there, take several shots to be sure you get a variety of expressions.
Okay, Kim, let's see some teeth.
Let's go.
This is one picture that will be cherished by all.
In this program, we've seen many situations, special occasions, travel, vacations, everyday events, but all of them magic moments.
The pictures of today are the memories of tomorrow.
Make sure that you're ready whenever and wherever magic moments occur.
You really do make the difference.
Take a look around and let your eyes see
So much of light as it ought to be
So many ways to capture the land
And the answers are held within your hand
You make the difference
No matter what you do, it all goes back to you
It's faces and places
The pictures are in you, in all the things you do
You make the difference
No matter what the style, in the time it takes to smile
You make the difference
Living like you do, making dreams come true
Making each day become what you are
No matter where you go
Cause you make the difference show