I just read a tip list on creating Christmas Card photos, and for the most part it provided good information. However, I noticed one tip that often trades one problem for another-putting the light behind the photographer.
This tip does make sense from a purely technical perspective–putting the light behind the photog means that the subejct will be properly lit, and the camera won’t accidentally meter of light behind the subjects and cast them in shadow. However, light coming directly behind the photographer is usually sunlight and can be harsh-causing the subject-even pets-to squint. Not good.
Digital cameras these days do everything for you but cook dinner it seems, and today’s models can handle some backlighting just fine. The secret is to set your camera on portrait mode and turn on the flash. Then stand between 3 and 20 feet away from the subject. You’ll have well lit subjects and they will be smiling not squinting!
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