Taking the perfect photograph often means clicking the shutter at the perfect time. A quarter of a second too early or too late and the moment is missed. Most photographers have missed incredible opportunities at least once, and often those photos they could have taken were once in a lifetime occasions. The contributing factors to these unfortunate turns of events are diverse. Some are understandably complex, while are others are simple, rookie mistakes. Here is a list of things worth watching out for. You never know when the perfect opportunity arises, so you should do your best to be prepared for it.

1. Poor camera access

You don’t always have your camera wrapped around your neck or in your hand when that special moment is about to take place. That’s why it’s crucial to have quick access to your camera and the best way to do so, besides carrying it on your shoulder all the time without protection, is to have a camera bag that allows for a quick reach. It’s not a guarantee that you’ll snap the moment because you have to move fast on almost all of these occasions. However, you will at least be one step closer.

2. Insufficient energy

One of the worst feelings a photographer can have is getting ready to capture an amazing moment and being denied to do so because of a low battery. Always make sure to have at least one spare battery. Also keep in mind that there are external factors, such as low temperatures, that will quickly discharge a battery even if you aren’t using it.

3. A dirty lens

While you might capture that special moment, having a dirty front lens will possibly cause your photos to have unwanted spots. It’s crucial to keep your optics clean at all times and the best way to do so is by having a UV filter mounted and having a cleaning kit in your bag.

4. Insufficient storage capacity

Today’s memory cards have high capacities, but to be fair, the files produced by the latest cameras are pretty big as well. Having at least one extra memory card is vital and so is changing a card that is about to become full .Don’t change it when you only have 20 shots left because you never know how many you need to get the best part of the action.

5. Improper settings

Keeping up with the lighting conditions is one of those feelings you develop over time. I’m not going to discuss automatic camera options because I consider them to be for beginners only, so this about those times when you walk outside with your camera set for indoor photography and something unexpected and interesting happens. Chances are the ISO will be at a higher value and thus your exposure will be completely blown. It is important to make the necessary adjustments each time you change the environment.

NIKON Prime Lenses	CANON Prime Lenses	SIGMA Prime Lenses
Nikon 24mm f/1.4	Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II	Sigma 24mm f/1.8 EX DG
Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.4G	Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM	Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM
Nikon 35mm f/1.4G	Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L	Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM
Nikon 85mm f/1.4G	Canon EF 85mm f1.2L II	Sigma 85mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM
Nikon 300mm f/2.8G AF-S ED	Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS	Sigma 300mm f/2.8 EX DG IF

6. Not using the stabilization mechanisms

Most of today’s standard zooms come with a certain mechanism designed to counter the normal vibrations of your hands. If these devices are not positioned in the lens, they are in the body, like in the case of Sony. These technologies are there for a reason and unlike pop-up flashes or other useless features, they actually work. Having them turned on at all times will minimize the chances of motion blur and thus reduce the risk of depression that usually comes with realizing those awesome images you thought you had are all blurred.

7. The number one rookie mistake

I’m talking about leaving the lens cap on. No, it doesn’t happen only to amateurs but that is still no excuse. Always make sure you take it off and make a habit out of checking just before you turn on the camera.

8. ”Chimping”

Chimping means constantly inspecting your masterpieces on the LCD screen of the camera. It’s one of the best ways to miss out on what’s going on around you. It’s ok to check your exposure every now and then, but don’t spend more time reviewing than shooting.

 

Also Read: 23 THINGS YOU MUST KNOW TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN PHOTOGRAPHY

Recommended Reading:

• 2013 Photographer's Market: The Most Trusted Guide to Selling Your Photography
• Best Business Practices for Photographers
• The Fast Track Photographer Business Plan: Build a Successful Photography Venture from the Ground Up
• Group Portrait Photography Handbook
• The Best of Family Portrait Photography: Professional Techniques and Images
• 500 Poses for Photographing Group Portraits
• Selling Your Photography: How to Make Money in New and Traditional Markets 
• Starting Your Career as a Freelance Photographer
• Photographer's Survival Manual: A Legal Guide for Artists in the Digital Age
• Legal Handbook for Photographers: The Rights and Liabilities of Making Images
• Taking Stock: Make money in microstock creating photos that sell
• Going Pro: How to Make the Leap from Aspiring to Professional Photographer

 

Image credit: aaronamat / 123RF Stock Photo