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Ideas for Photography Subjects

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out behind the lens, there's nothing more gratifying than shooting a fresh and intriguing subject. The camera is an amazing tool in that it can turn the ordinary into the extraordinary by a shift in the photographer's perspective or through the use of a different lens. Use the tips that follow to sharpen your eye and revive your creativity.

Local Events and Festivals
- Unique subjects abound during local festivities.
  
  Block parties, street fairs and local parades all make for interesting and lively photographic opportunities. These events are often decorated with colorful banners, lights and signs which temporarily transform the appearance of your community -- ideal settings for the documentary photographer. If you enjoy taking pictures of people, attendees are often jovial and ready to pose for a photo at a moment's notice.
Still Life
- An effective still life requires an eye for light and shadow.
  
  Still-life photography displays the ordinary and inanimate objects which surround us in a way that elicits an emotional response from the viewer. A still life usually emphasizes setting or mood and therefore relies heavily upon light, shadow and composition. This type of photography is about capturing and preserving life's little details: a plate of home-cooked food, a pile of books under a warm bedside lamp or a windowsill at sunset.
Sports Games
- There's no shortage of excitement at any sporting event.
  
  The fast-paced action at any sporting event will provide you with many opportunities for excellent photographs. If you're equipped with a zoom or telephoto lens, focus on a player's face for a portrait of determination and concentration. When the crowd goes wild, turn your lens on it to capture the frenzy and joy of celebration. Before heading out to the ball game, make sure you pack a camera with a high maximum shutter speed, such as 1/2000th of a second -- this will reduce the chance of blurred, color-streaked photos.
Night Life
- An nighttime walk will change your approach to most subjects.
  
  Too many photographers pack up their gear once the sun sets. This is a shame, as nightfall transforms even the most routine avenues. Most cities have downtown districts that are brightly lit by streetlights, storefronts and the headlights of passing cars. With a fast lens (one with a maximum aperture of f/2 or wider) or an external flash unit, you'll be able to capture all of the vibrance of a night on the town.

Photography