Photographer Kenny Lombardi is guest blogging today with some tips on how to take better photos- just in time for the holidays! I’m sure we could all stand to improve our pics a bit. Here’s some advice from a pro:

Looking for some tips to make your holiday photos a bit more interesting?  It might be easier than you think. Many people think that a camera is the most important factor in photography, but it’s not.  In fact the most influential piece of the photography puzzle usually sits behind the camera. That’s right …YOU!

Today’s technology has advanced to the point where even your phone can take a nice quality photo.  So most of you already have the equipment you need to produce a photo that everyone will love.  Here are 3 quick things for you to think about to add some spice to your photos.

Try following the “rule of thirds”. This basically means that you should move the subject of your photo off center. The subject should be placed in either the right or left third of the frame. This usually makes the photo more appealing to the eye.

Are you tired of taking photos that turn out blurry?  Make a conscious effort to be as still as possible when pressing the shutter button. We all know that, but sometimes that’s not enough. You also have to be aware of lighting. It is always desirable to take a photo with its natural surrounding light. However, there are times when the lighting is low. The slightest movement by you or your subject will result in a blurry photo. Activating the flash on your point and shoot or phone will help you take a nice crisp photo in low light situations. Try to start anticipating these situations before you take your shot. Thinking about this ahead of time will ensure that you don’t miss capturing that special moment.

Everyone knows that a clean lens will take the best photos. When is the last time you looked at your smart phone’s camera lens? We carry our phones in our pockets, bags and purses. We also pass our phones around to show family and friends our photos or something on Facebook. All this action attracts finger prints, dust and other things you do not want on your lens. Even if you don’t see smudges, they could be affecting your camera images. Clean the lens on your phone before you take your next shot.

The focus on these tips is to be a bit more conscious of small things that can help you increase your odds on taking that perfect shot.

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If you’re like me, you’re often tempted by deals on Groupon or Living Social b/c you think you’re going to save money. If you’re even more like me, you often don’t use the groupons you’ve purchased. But they always sound like a great deal, don’t they? Think again… 

I purchased a Groupon for JC Penny store portraits- $25 for a photography session plus 3 digital images and two printed photos. Sounded great and much cheaper than using a private professional photographer. I’m not usually a fan of department store portraits and the typical holiday card- kids dressed in fancy clothes complete with red velvet, bows, ribbons, bells and reindeer sweaters, while sitting in front of a fake fireplace/reindeer/drunken Santa Claus…. But I decided to give it a try b/c $25 is an absolute bargain.  

On the day of the appointment, we were running late and rushing. Have you ever tried getting four kids (5 years and under) dressed and together for an appointment? Well, it’s a little like herding cats. As a result of the rushing, my good stroller was hastily folded up and shoved into the trunk. Naturally, it broke. We forged on and arrived at the store 15 min late (of course we did. Who arrives on time with kids??). We were told that the store has a 10 min grace period. Obviously this rule was made by someone who doesn’t have kids (or never was a kid). Pepcid pills popped, we rescheduled for the following week.  

When the big day arrived again, we were determined not to be late. With the kids partially dressed and somewhat happy (Goldfish work every time), I managed to back out of my driveway without noticing the car parked behind me and backed right into it. After talking to the neighbor and promising to take care of the damages (it was a small dent on the bumper. How bad could it be?), we still made it to the appointment on time.  

But now we had to take the Goldfish away. That left one child crying just in time for the pictures. Perfect. It’s not a family portrait unless someone’s crying, right? When the session was over, the saleswoman gave me the ole’ bait and switch. I could take only 3 images as per my Groupon (and get that “you don’t care about your kids” look from the saleswoman) or I could buy the entire disc for a mere $85. Of course, I opted for the whole disc. Great groupon deal (not really). 

The following day I received a phone call- the cost of repairing (which actually means replacing) the bumper is $775. Well, at least the Groupon was only $25. On second thought… stroller cost: $700, bumper repair: $775, photos $85, Groupon $25, massage I needed after the stress: $100. So, all in all, the holiday photos ended up coming in at a mere $1,685.00. What a bargain! I could have hired my own photographer, make up artist and drunken Santa and it would still have cost less. 

So, next time you think you’re getting a good Groupon deal, think again. Hidden costs will likely be incurred. You know what they say… Buyer beware!  

On the anniversary of Superstorm Sandy, I am compelled to take a walk down memory lane and recap the lessons I learned after living through it and being displaced from my home for 5 months.