Memory

Availability

Charge it

Know it

Memory- Keep an extra tape/memory card next to the camera. Make sure your memory card or tape (in the camera) has extra room left on it. 

I know this sounds like a no brainer, but how often has this happened to you? Have you ever faced the delemma of having to delete pictures just to make room on your memory card? Have you ever had to fumble around to find a card or tape only to find that you lost the shot? It’s easy “remember the memory! “

Availability- Keep your camera within easy reach at all times.

I can’t stress this enough. From my own personal experience, if I have to work too hard to find my camera, or dig to extract it from a case or bag, often, the instant is gone. I suggest keeping your still camera and/or video camera on a mantel or on a shelf high enough to keep away from the kids, but within your reach. “Out of site, out of mind” is true in this case. If you leave your camera visible and ready for action, it takes mere seconds to run, grab the camera, turn it on, and take your shot. When your one year old is ready to walk, you’ll be ready with camera in hand!

Charge it- Always keep an extra charged battery available. 

For video cameras, I suggest having at least three batteries available and fully charged. The larger the better because video cameras suck up energy quickly. Camera flashes drain the charge more rapidly as well. 

Know it- Know your camera like the back of your hand.

If you are familiar with your camera then you will be able to confidently take pictures quickly and with better results. I know, manuals are boring! If technical reading is not your thing, there are plenty of online tutorials, user groups and blogs to help you know with your gear. Many sites offer free information, tips and tricks, and training DVDs to purchase. Google your camera’s name and model number and see what you find.

It’s often the little details that can determine weather a successful shot is taken. The question isn’t weather interesting things are going on around you. It’s are you available to capture it?