Whether you’re taking pictures professionally or just trying to capture personal memories, it can sometimes help to shake up your routine a bit. Allowing room for experimentation can build skills and experience or add verve to your portfolio. There are plenty of unique camera features and photography techniques that you can use to create images that look completely different and unexpected.

How to Use Your Camera in Unexpected Ways

1. Vary Lighting

In most images, you want soft, natural light that’s even throughout the entire frame. However, if you want to go against the grain, try making the light source a focal point for the image. Use candles, incandescent bulbs, or even backlighting from the sun to change up the look of your subject. Use objects that reflect light, such as white reflectors, to create contrast and improve exposure. Try to use the widest aperture for shallow depth of field and blurred background.

2. Try Unexpected Lenses

Typically, you might use a wide-angle lens for landscapes, 50mm to 85mm lens or similar for portraits, and telephoto lenses for subjects at a distance. However, you might try swapping these options to achieve a different look. For example, using a wide-angle lens for a portrait could help you include more of the surroundings for a dynamic, if somewhat distorted, image.

3. Use Creative Effects

There are several ways you can manipulate light sources and lenses to include effects in your images. For example, you can use a GOBO (go between object) or projector to add a bokeh flare or blur to specific parts of your photos.

4. Explore Double Exposure

Double exposure is another effect that will help your photos really stand out. With this technique, you essentially combine two image captures into one, so you can have a portrait combined with a landscape or even two portraits included in one finished photo. This can help you suggest movement or add symbolic meaning. 

5. Change Your Perspective

Simply moving your camera to take a photo from a different angle can help you change the visual emphasis or explore your subject more deeply. Try moving closer to the ground or even going for an overhead shot to get a completely new view. Play around with The rule of two-thirds, too — after all, rules are meant to be broken. 

If you want to purchase a camera or other equipment to create these types of unique images, K & R Photographics in Ft. Mitchell, KY, will help. This camera store carries a wide array of photo equipment and software for professionals and hobbyists alike. Serving customers throughout Greater Cincinnati and the entire Tri-State area since 1975, the company’s experienced professionals will help you find the camera equipment and accessories that suit your needs. View a selection of products online or call (859) 341-6986 to speak with a team member.