Wild New Jersey - Human Nature by Lynda Hester D'Orio

February 2003

Tips for Nature
Photographers from Dwight Hiscano

1. Don’t feel as if you have to have the best camera and lens to capture a great photograph, use the equipment you have. Great pictures don’t necessarily come from expensive equipment, they come from learning the basics.

2. Lighting: Dramatic results can be achieved outdoors on hazy days, daybreak and sunset.

3. Composition: Place yourself into an area where you can absorb what is around you before you shoot, you may notice details you would not normally if you pass through walking. Make a note of where you are if need be and decide if you’d like to return at a different time of day or season if you might get a richer photograph opportunity.

4. Don’t go out with a preconceived idea of what you have to come away with, you’ll miss what is really right there in front of you.

5. Try your backyard or a favorite natural setting nearby. Great results are not always because they are exotic locations.

6. Try using slide film, Ektochrome or Fujichrome. Slide film reproduces much better than negative film.

7. Go to a presentation or take a class to help explore improving your photography skills or printing skills.

8. Try black and white film, it is different in its’ form, but can be dramatic.

9. Be careful where you tread, watch out for wildlife or dangerous situations.

10. Enjoy yourself. Even if you don’t catch that great shot, there is always another chance and you will miss out on appreciating the moment you are in a beautiful, natural place.

Book Review, New Jersey, the Natural State

An Interview with Dwight Hiscano

Copyright © 2003 L.H.D'Orio