1. Access to your digital camera must be quick. As a result, it is crucial you have a digital cameras camera bag that allows easy fast access to your digital camera.
2. Make certain that you have more than one fully charged battery before you set out on a photography trip. Remember also that battery life can also be affected by the temperature so make sure you know the environment in which you are going to be shooting. If it is 10 degrees below zero, make sure you have plenty of backup power sources.
3. Ensure that you clean the front and rear of your lenses to reduce spots. This should become a routine process. Clean the lenses at the end of a shoot and prior to going on your next shoot.
4. Make absolutely certain that you have enough storage capacity on your camera and its additional memory cards.
5. Ensure that your camera is preset to the settings you require for the subject you are going to shoot. This relies on experience to know the best settings for a given scenario.
6. If your digital camera is fitted with image stabilization technology or vibration reduction, use it correctly. If you’re going to be holding your camera for the shoot, make certain to turn these features on. If your tripod shooting, turn them off to ensure sharper images.
7. Ensure you have fitted any filters prior to heading out on a shoot. This means you will have to know your subject. It is quicker to remove filters when on a shoot than fit them so always fit them before you begin.
8. Now this may sound amateurish but there will be occasions where you have your lens cap on and missed an opportunity as a result. So please, make sure that you have taken your lens cap off!
9. Make sure your camera is switched on in anticipation of capturing an image. If your digital camera needs protection, keep it in your bag but make sure it is turned on. The seconds it takes for the camera to boot up all add up and can be the difference between a missed image and a wonder shot.
10. Don’t look at images on your LCD and revel in the excellence. Do a quick check to ascertain settings are correct then move on to the next shot. Experience is crucial in photography, without it you will struggle to capture professional images. The tools of your trade are an essential companion on your journey to professional excellence.
