To improve the quality of every portrait that you take, you need to use your camera in the right way. Digital cameras are not like single use cameras. They are not always as complex as traditional, film cameras, either. They fit somewhere in between. Still, if you want to get a great picture, you do have to have the right tools to do the job. In fact, the biggest hold up most people have is not knowing the basics of how their camera works. This will slow you down considerably.
For those using an SLR camera, it will take some time to get used to the features. One of the features that you will benefit from right off the bad is the focus options. If you have an SLR camera, you should avoid using the auto focus setting. With a quality camera, you will have various focus options. Try them all. Learn how to choose the right one, based on your owner's manual in particular. This will improve the quality of your shot virtually every time.
You also should consider shooting in manual mode rather than automatic mode. Many people feel that the camera is smart enough to make the decisions for you and therefore use the automatic mode as often as they can. However, this can cause problems for you. Instead, invest some time in learning how to use the manual mode first. This will enhance your ability to be creative in your shots and more in control of the final photo.
White balance is another area that most people avoid. If you have an SLR camera, you have the ability to choose custom white balance (in most cases.) Try using various options here. You may want more color if you are in a location that is indoors. In the sun, you may want less. The key to remember here is that auto white balance really does not do anything. But, if you do take the time to adjust this and try out different methods, you could find yourself with a fantastic picture.
Invest some time in reading your owner's manual. Not only does it give you the step by step instructions for using your digital camera, but it will also give you tips on how to use your camera properly, to get the best finished photo. Experimentation is also one of the best ways to learn how to take the best shots every time.
