Digital Photography Backgrounds: How to Create Your Own

If you have a digital camera and photo editing software, then you probably already know about digital backgrounds for your photographs. These backdrops enable you to photograph a subject anywhere you choose, and then cut out that image and insert it in front of any number of backgrounds. One pose can now create a multitude of unique photos.

If you want exotic backdrops of foreign places or mythical creatures, than you will probably have no choice but to buy them online. However, if you just want to save the gas in your car and not have to travel to all of your local photo-shooting spots, then creating a file of ready-made backgrounds would be a great idea.

Simply visit each of your favorite locations to take pictures. Take several shots there from different angles. As you snap the pictures, be sure to consider where and how you would pose your target in front of the scene. For instance, if you want a pose of a girl reclining on a blanket in front of a bubbling stream, you will want to take a lower shot than you might otherwise snap. You would want enough grass in front of the stream to place the blanket.

What are some local places you might use to create these backdrops? Here are a few you may want to check out:

*Local parks. Especially ones with unique trees like weeping willows or tall green pines.

*A local beach.

*In front of an historical building or monument. For example, the steps to your county library or the porch of an old plantation.

*A graffiti wall. Do you know of anywhere that local graffiti artists practice their craft? You won't want anything too offensive, but this can make for a great backdrop.

?*A mural. Similar to graffiti, but more of a painting instead. A lot of localities have mural painted on the sides of town buildings promoting the history of the town.

*State parks. These parks offer a wealth of opportunities for the photographer. And while you are shooting your background shots, you can get some great wildlife and landscape photographs, too.

Again, be sure to keep in mind how you intend to pose your subject in the picture. If you will be using a sitting or reclining pose, you will need to be sure to plan the angle of your picture accordingly.

Once you have several of your very own digital photography backgrounds, you can start having fun. No more traveling to get all those shots--you can take one shot from your studio or home and have all the unique pictures you want!