Another button that’s on most cameras, whether digital or film, is a self-timer. This feature is easy to use, and it’s a way to put yourself into the picture.
Find the icon on your camera that looks somewhat like a clock — it’s a circle with one “hand” on it. Each camera model is going to be a little different, so go ahead and experiment with your camera. On my Canon, when I press that button, I get a choice of a 10-second timer, a 2-second timer or “custom”, where I can choose the number of seconds. Cameras will typically beep during that ten seconds (or whatever time you choose for the timer), and will beep faster as it gets closer to taking the picture.
You may not use this feature often, but if you play around with it and get more comfortable with it, you will be ready to use it when the occasion arises. If you have a tripod, this is a great time to pull out the tripod, securely attach your camera to it, and practice setting the timer and taking a picture of yourself.
You don’t need a tripod, however; try setting the camera on the shelf of a bookcase or some other safe, level surface that is about face height. Another option is to sit in a chair for your photo, then the camera can be stationed perhaps on a countertop. If you are using flash, be sure to allow maybe 5-6 feet between you and the camera so the camera doesn’t wash out your skin color.
Take a little time to take a few pictures of yourself (alone or with someone). Pay attention to how the beeps sound so you are relaxed, ready, and smiling for your protrait!
With family reunion season approaching, this can be a great feature to use. Line everybody up, save a spot for yourself, and you can all be in the picture together.
Feel free to add photos to our Photo Friday album. Good luck, and if you have any problems or questions, send me a message through the “contact me” button at the top of this page.
Sue
This is good, I seem to be pulling the manual to my camera out each week to look up the feature. You are saving me a photo class!
I use this feature all the time. I do a lot of hiking and it’s always nice to have a photo once the summit is reached. I also use it when I’m taking closeup shots. I enjoy these Friday posts and I’m learning a lot. Thanks for sharing with us.
Kathy (comment above) makes an excellent comment. You can use the self-timer any time you want to be extra careful about camera shake. It can be difficult to squeeze the shutter button and not move the camera at all. A solution is to use the timer; set the timer, aim and focus your camera, and just hold very still until your picture is taken! Thanks, Kathy!