Ok, so by now we have a good basic understanding of how to take better pictures. This will be our last lesson.

So our last lesson will just be a few tips on developing good camera/film handling habits.

Cleaning your camera lens~~~
One of the most important factors in getting sharp, clear pictures is to have a clean camera lens. You've seen what the view is like when you look through a dirty window. Well, your pictures will have a similar hazy, unsharp appearance if you take them through a dirty camera lens. So before you start taking pictures, be sure your camera lens is clean.

If your camera lens needs cleaning, clean the front and back glass surfaces by first carefully blowing away any dust or dirt. Then breathe on the surface of the lens to form a mist and gently wipe the mist away with a soft, clean, lintless cloth. Never use a cloth treated with chemicals, like you use to clean your glasses.


Loading and Unloading 35 mm Cameras

Always load and unload your camera in subdued light — not bright sunlight. (This is especially important for very high-speed films.) If there's no shade around, position your body so it casts a shadow over your camera for loading and unloading. This helps prevent bright light from entering the lip of the 35 mm magazine and causing a streak on the first or second picture. If this happens, the streak is usually orange or clear on color slides or prints but dark on negatives. To avoid streaks, keep the film in its lighttight container before and after exposure.

I took a photography class in high school and I remember our teacher making us load and unload our cameras in a closet.

Camera Holding

The best way for you to hold your camera is the way that's both comfortable and steady. Try to keep your arms against your body — not suspended in air. Plant your feet firmly on the ground, slightly apart. Hold the camera tightly against your face. Take a breath, hold it, and gently squeeze the shutter release. Chances are that you'll take a picture free of camera movement.

The way you hold your camera when you release the shutter is important for sharp pictures. Camera jiggle is the most common cause of unsharp pictures — not the obviously blurred pictures, but those lacking the needle sharpness that indicates the touch of a skilled photographer.

If your camera has a tele photo or zoom lens, try holding the lens steady with your left hand. This should help.


Golfers practice their swing. Target shooters practice squeezing the trigger. Photographers can practice their handling techniques.