I'm not really good at taking stills...as a matter of fact in my opinion...'I SUCK"; however I am really taking more of an interest in learning the dynamics of photography rather than just getting "lucky' with the shots I take.

Now that all the digressing is over with...tell me what i need to do in order to make this type of photo better?!?!?!?

http://www.anitrone.com/scotch_soda.jpg

thanks for c&c

Well your shot is not bad.

You need to level the camera 1st of all and mount it on a tripod if it wasn't. Mounting on a tripod (among other things) will allow you to move around and tweek things without changing the relationship of camera to subject. If you go to a hardware store you can pick up a small bubble level that is about 1.5 inches long for about $5 or you can order $15-35 tiny bubble level made for cameras from any of the large on-line photo stores.

If you have to use flash then put something in front of it so it is not as harsh. Bottles in particular are hard to light, you really want diffused lilght rather than a harsh one like a flash produces. Tissues or magic tape work.

If you have a seperate flash (can be removed from the camera) you can get soft boxes and such for it that will help greatly (Damnengine was really pleased with the one he got). If possible you can also get a flash cord so you don't have to have the flash right above the camera, you can move it around and experiment with different light angles.

If you have the bottle on a glass table you can light it from underneath by placing a large sheet of paper on top of the table with a hole cut out slightly smaller than the bottle diameter and then having a light source under the table like a flashlight or little desk lamp.

Oh and natural light is best whenever possible, set up your shot near a window where you can manipulate the light with a curtain or blind (though in a bottle the individual blinds will show up in the reflection).

Hope this helps a bit

:)

no the camera was not mounted on a tripod...just my nervous desposition...i will check and see what is available in town; although my tripod does have a level attached to it~

the critique will definately help! I just acquired a new digicam and have not been able to take many shots since I forgot my battery charger in 'socal' and my camera charge is almost at it's MAX!!!

I will try your suggestions...here is a different shot!

http://www.anitrone.com/scotch_soda11.jpg


thanks again!

My only suggestion is take the soda out of the Scotch. And the ice too. :)

I like the first shot better, far more interesting. The motion gves the feeling of being in a busy place, and when you are in a busy place drinking scotch, you are usually having a good time.

thanks Arch!

Okay then !!...first of all...nothing against the photo ani, I think you have done wonderful....but bloody hell, please no soda or ice in that glass of whisky....thats me best whisky getting ruined.......Glenfiddich eh!.....nothing should be added to that.....ask any Scotsman !!!!!!!.....nearly brought a wee tear to me eyes !!
:gosh:

thanks scotty!

i will take the compliment for the picture...but honestly that would be my husband pouring soda and ice with his scotch! My grandmother was scottish...and I know better...I will let him know of your heartbreak! :)