How to hold your camera correctly: try it yourself
This is the practical for the lesson. Work through it in order. Nothing here is a test of memory. Keep the lesson open if you need it and check the instructions as often as you like.
Aim
The difference may be small in bright light because the camera can use a fast shutter speed. In dimmer light the supported photographs are more likely to retain fine detail. If all the photographs are sharp, that is not a failed exercise. It means the conditions were forgiving.
What you need
Your own camera or phone, enough battery power to complete the exercise, and a memory card or free storage space where your equipment requires it. You do not need to buy anything specially for this practical.
Do this step by step
- Fit a normal or kit lens and set the camera to an automatic mode so settings are not the thing being tested.
- Photograph a stationary object while deliberately holding the camera with your right hand only.
- Without changing your position or zoom, take the photograph again with your left hand supporting the camera or lens from underneath and your elbows closer to your body.
- Repeat both photographs in slightly dimmer light indoors, where camera movement is easier to see.
- Zoom into the photographs on the rear screen or a computer. Compare fine detail such as writing, edges or texture.
- Try the supported position again while leaning lightly against a wall or resting your elbows on a table.
What should happen
The difference may be small in bright light because the camera can use a fast shutter speed. In dimmer light the supported photographs are more likely to retain fine detail. If all the photographs are sharp, that is not a failed exercise. It means the conditions were forgiving.
If it does not work
Stop rather than changing lots of things at once. Check that the camera is switched on, the battery has charge and the card or storage is available. Then return to the last step that definitely worked. If a named control is missing, your camera may use a different name or menu location. Check the manual for your exact model. Never force a card, battery, lens, door or control.
Before you finish
Explain out loud, or in one sentence on paper, what you changed and what happened. If you can explain the result in your own words, you have understood the exercise. If you cannot, repeat the part that was unclear.