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Improve your photography with these tips from Nikon Ambassador Dixie Dixon
Just because you’re stuck at home, that doesn’t mean your camera has to start collecting dust. Polish up your photography skills now, and your photos will be the better for it when you’re finally able to travel again. Here are 10 shooting scenarios you can practice at home, courtesy of Nikon Ambassador Dixie Dixon.
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Get messy in the kitchen
Stage a photo shoot in your kitchen to practice your food photography and capture some candid action shots. “Get out your mixing bowl and don’t be afraid to get messy,” says Dixon. “It adds to the fun, and your photos will come out even better.”
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Unleash your creativity with bubble baths
“Let your creativity and imagination run wild by capturing these little, everyday moments of pure joy,” says Dixon. Make sure your shutter speed is fast enough to freeze any motion of the bubbles.
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Stage a spring cleaning fashion shoot
There’s no better place to try your hand at fashion photography than your own closet. “As you jumpstart your spring cleaning, closet organizing is not only productive but also a great way to play with capturing unique styles, colors and prints,” explains Dixon.
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Capture your morning coffee
Your first cup of joe is more than just a morning necessity; it can be an opportunity to practice. “Something as simple as capturing your morning routine can be a great moment to photograph. Play with contrasting colors to get unique photos that pop,” says Dixon.
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Seize hold of the colors of spring
If you have access to a backyard, take advantage of the spring blooms. Dixon recommends combining some photography with an art project that you can do with your kids. “With spring flowers blooming, search for your favorites in your backyard and put them together into a headpiece as both a fun DIY activity and a new fashion accessory to photograph.”
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Celebrate Halloween a little earlier this year
Don’t wait for October to roll around for an excuse to play dress-up. “Pull out your old Halloween costumes, and photograph the fun of your kids pretending to be their favorite characters,” says Dixon. “Dress-up doesn’t just have to be for the kids – put on matching outfits to engage the whole family.”
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Safely explore wide open spaces
A little bit of fresh air and some Vitamin D can go a long way when you’ve been cooped up inside. Dixon recommends taking your photography outdoors. “Explore the places near where you live – alone or with the people you live with – and capture the beauty around you.”
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Don’t forget your furry friends
“Test out your portrait photography skills by capturing your pets,” suggests Dixon. Try to use natural light, and focus on the eyes.
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Indulge additional artistic passions
If you find yourself with some extra free time on your hands, take advantage of it to explore more of your creative sides. “Try out new hobbies, like playing an instrument or learning to paint, and capture your journey along the way,” suggests Dixon.
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Focus on family time
Sometimes the best family photos are those captured when you’re simply spending quality time together. “Bedtime fun or playing board games can make for the perfect candid moments of your family to document,” Dixon adds.
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