Avoid Red-Eye When Taking Photos

We all enjoy taking photos, whether they are of family, friends, pets or places we've been. We also take great pride and pleasure in sharing these photos with almost anyone we meet. But often when photographing people or pets, the photos end up disappointing us because of the dreaded “red-eye.”

What causes red-eye? Red-eye occurs when the camera's built-in flash reflects off the subject's eyes. In human subjects, the eyes appear to sparkle red. In animal subjects, the eyes appear white, yellow or green. This glint can ruin anyone's well intended attempt to take that “perfect picture.” The reason this happens with built-in flashes is because the flash is positioned close to camera's lens. This causes the light emitted from the flash to bounce off the subject's retinas back directly toward the lens. The eyes act like mirrors. None of us would take pictures of a subject positioned in front of a mirror. From experience we have discovered that the flash will reflect off the mirror and cause the digital photo to be bleached out. The opportunity to take that specific photo is lost forever.

There are a few simple photo tips, if followed, which will help you to avoid red-eye when taking pictures:

• Photographing in nature: There isn't much to worry about when taking photos in an outdoor environment. Natural light provided by the sun is the best source to illuminate the subject. Just be certain that the sun is at your back.
• Taking pictures indoors: When photographing people or pets inside, you won't have to be concerned about red-eye as much if windows are exposed to let the light from outside in. Before taking photos, raise the blinds or shades and draw the curtains open.
• Change your angle: The use of a flash might still be necessary in any environment, but to avoid red-eye take your shot at a slight angle. This will prevent any light from bouncing back toward the lens when taking photos.

Now that you have some knowledge about what causes red-eye and are armed with a few simple photo tips to guide you, you'll have more confidence when photographing people or pets and will surely capture some great shots without the evil red-eye.

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