How Do You Hold Your Camera?
Is there a wrong way to hold a camera? Some professional photographers may argue there is a proper technique to hold your camera but wouldn’t holding your camera in the same “technique” grow tiresome? I would think so. My answer to this question: hold the camera whichever way you are comfortable.
As most people, I am a people watcher. I like to observe how people go about everyday life and as a local of Seattle area, I find myself either cringing as they hold their camera over the boardwalk or laughing as people take their photos in the oddest stances. I just want it on record that I only laugh at these people because as a photographer I do the same thing. Most of us know that we have to sometimes get into an awkward stance or lay on the ground so that we can get the picture. So, again I say, hold your camera the way you are comfortable with.
I believe that the way you hold your camera makes a statement about you. Now this can be either positive or negative like all things, but in reality as photographers we hold the camera in whichever way we are needed so that we can get the perfect picture. Check out some of these creative ways to hold your camera!
The Tourist This is your standard strap around the neck, head out to see the city, and I brought my camera to photograph some cool stuff...even though it doesn't look very cool. Warning: you may look like a fifty-year old man wearing socks with sandals if you choose this technique but it gets the job done.
The Jazz Hands Seen mostly with point and shoot cameras. For those who want to make absolutely sure their fingers will not be in the photos. And unfortunately, this way of holding your camera makes you look like you are a tourist wherever you go. So, be prepared.
The Peek-a-boo Some photographers, such as me, close one eye when they are taking their photos. Usually the eye that is closed will be the eye not looking through the camera. Warning: this technique is known for making the eye twitch during, and after the session.
The Thrill Ride A very unorthodox and very dangerous technique. But some folks, especially when they are bored, will give the camera a spin. Only recommended if you super glued your straps to your camera and if you do not own an expensive camera. Also known as The Swinger.
The Safe-Shot Some photographers out there only take their photos on a tripod. Which certainly is the safest way to go. Well, unless you trip on the tripod and the camera comes crashing to the ground, and you’re covered in dirt. But as a person who likes to view the world as a glass half full, that is probably unlikely to happen. So, for all you photographers who live in a plastic bubble to protect you from everything, this is for sure is the choice for you.
The Rock Concert The act of trying to take a photo of the band over that 6'9" guy in front of you. Also seen at sporting events and weddings. It is a hit and miss photo technique, but when you nail it you feel like the Rockstar.
The Hipster With this technique you are trying to be stealthy, daring, or ironic (please see hipster definition) by shooting from the hip. A great way to catch kids off guard and to shoot on a “different level.” Warning: higher degree of difficulty but you will look cool and casual doing it.
The Risk Taker No Strap on the camera can be quite a liberating feeling. These are the first people to ride their bikes with no hands too...there has to be a study somewhere to back that up.
The Okey-Dokey Easily spotted because of the overhand grab of the lens to focus or zoom. Also looks like they are giving you the "OK" sign. Makes me want to give them a thumbs up.
The Capison When you try to take a photo and you can't figure out why the screen is pitch black, then after about 10 seconds you realize you left the cap on the lens of the camera. It has happened to everyone...just more to some than others. As a photographer try to avoid this situation, it is bad for business.
With this review of mildly hilarious techniques for you to either use and abuse or feel more secure in your own hand holding techniques, I hope you enjoyed this read and that the lighting may always be in your favor.
For any questions, feel free to contact me through email, here.