SPARK Winter 2015-2016 | Page 19

Winter Photography iARTS Taking photographs is a brilliant way to remember special days and in winter, the wonderful frosts and even the sun rising on a crisp cold day provides the perfect backdrop. Now you can have a go following these tips from photographer Tamara Tovey, who often encourages her girls to get behind the camera lens! Tamara says: "The word photography comes from the Greek photos ("light") and graphe ("drawing") so it literally means "drawing with light". There is a lot less light during winter months, so we need to be quite creative at finding it! This season brings a lot 1) If you’re indoors stand by or near a window. Try experimenting by putting the object that you want to photograph facing the window, so that the window is behind your back. Or try to photograph with both you and a person being sideways to the light so you won’t end up with strong shadows. of opportunities for photos with party dressing up, decorations and, hopefully, snow!” An old digital camera is good for just playing around and getting used to holding a camera. Tamara adds: “Ask a grown-up to help you hold it. That way you won’t shake the camera about. Try to keep as still as you can so that you will not get a blurry (fuzzy) photograph.” 2) Experiment by having Christmas tree lights in the background, and take your camera with you on a walk around your neighbourhood to see lovely decorated houses. 3) Use the “golden hour” light. This is the special hour before sunset when the sun is low in the sky and looks red. During the summer you have to wait till 8-9pm to see the amazing glowing light, but in December, it’s around 3-4pm, so take advantage of it! Happy snapping! SPARK 19