Over the course of trying to get the best shot, even the best of photographers make mistakes along the way.  Whether we want to admit it or not, we screw up shots.

Here are some very basic things you can do before each shoot to ensure that you’re able to capture the best possible images during any given shoot and that you are not standing somewhere saying, “I can’t believe I forgot to ….”.  Here goes.

First, make sure you have a fully charged battery in your camera and an empty memory card in the camera as well.  Have a spare, fully charged battery as well as a backup memory card in your bag too.  One in the camera and a spare one as a backup.  Always.

Next, review your camera settings and make sure that your camera is set to shoot RAW.  You can shoot RAW + JPEG if you’d like.  That’s entirely up to you.  Now check to see that your picture size is set to large.

Are you in the right shooting mode that you prefer?  Select Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual or something else.  Now’s a good time to make sure that you’re not on self-timer too.  Ha!  I’ve screwed up a few shots with that mistake!  Whenever possible, use your remote to release the shutter.  This eliminates any camera shake.  Set your ISO and your White Balance to support the current lighting conditions and leave them there unless conditions change.

As you compose the shot and get ready to shoot, check to see that your tripod legs and head are tight.  Take a look at the front of your lens and any filters to make sure there are no dust spots or watermarks.  It’s a good time to check your focus and your depth of field too.  Now you’re ready to take your shot.

Regardless of what shooting mode you prefer, double check your histogram after your first series of shots and your check your highlight points.  If there are areas in the shot that are ‘blown out’ or way too dark, adjust your settings accordingly.

You will find that these easy photography ‘setup’ tips will eventually become second nature to you the more you get out and shoot.  Looking for other photographers to shoot with?  Come shoot with us!  We’d love to have you join us!