Unlike some types of photography which require you to venture into the great outdoors (something that not everybody has time for) or into a studio, still life photography is something that every photographer can participate in.
You don't need any specialist equipment and all it takes is a little preparation and of course, lots of patience.
Here are some top digital photography tips to help you discover the creative potential of still life from the comfort of your own home:
* Always take lots of shots and try to experiment as much as you can with different white balance and exposure settings.
* Fill the frame as much as possible to avoid having to crop out valuable pixels later. It will produce a better picture and save you lots of time.
* Light should usually come from the side. If it doesn't, then the subject will look flat on the photographs.
* Be on the constant lookout for potential subjects and backgrounds. This will help you to produce some interesting and exciting photographs.
* Don't place your subject too near the backdrop if you want to avoid shadows. You may find that you need to light the background separately.
* Colored gels placed over light sources are a great and inexpensive way to add impact to a shot.
* A tripod is essential to ensure that you get razor-sharp results. It will also give you the freedom to leave the camera and tweak your subject as well as steadying your camera in low light.
* Think ahead: if you intend to work on your pictures later in Photoshop this might affect or change the way you set up and take the picture.
* The kitchen, garage, bathroom and the garden are a rich source of potential subjects. Also keep an eye out for unusual objects when you are out and about - the seashore or the countryside is often a great source.
* A lightbox can be an inexpensive way to light the subject from below which will eliminate shadows.
Remember, it doesn't take much to transform a humdrum snapshot into a great image. Just take as many photographs as you can, tweaking as you go and you will soon have a stunning still life masterpiece.
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