Take your images from ho-hum to high impact.
By Julie Saetre
Whether you want to boost the power of your club’s social media posts or spotlight its achievements through a showcase exhibit, well-composed photos make all the difference. Vibrant images show what Kiwanis club members do and who they serve. To take your photos from ho-hum to high impact, incorporate these five tips into your next snapshot session.
Plan ahead. What story do you want your photo to tell? How do you want viewers to react?
Be polite. Don’t just start snapping photos of someone. Talk to your subject in a conversational tone and ask if you can take the photo.
Think active, not passive. Show your club or project in action. If your club is hosting an event to shop with kids or distribute school supplies, photograph a child trying on new shoes or exploring the contents of a backpack. A static photo of your club members lined up before the event won’t be meaningful to your audience.
Experiment with angles. Take a wide view of the room or event space, then try a few closeups of faces. Get down to kids’ eye levels by kneeling. Move closer to your subject and avoid shooting down at them — you’re more likely to get a genuine expression. Play with perspectives and see which images you like best.
Keep it simple. If you’re shooting a portrait, choose an uncluttered background. Avoid trees or items that appear to “grow” from behind a subject’s head. Don’t use the flash function if possible. Seek natural light and avoid shadows. Ask your subject to move forward from a backdrop, banner or poster. Don’t have a person stand straight against a wall. You want a memorable image, not a mug shot. And don’t forget to update your Kiwanis logos!
We encourage Kiwanis clubs to use their own photos of members, events and service projects when possible. (Remember, if you take photos of minors, be sure to get written permission from their parents or guardians.)
If you’re stuck for inspiration and need a little help, we have photos available for you to download and use.