How to take great birthday photos

Shooting a birthday party can be a real challenge. From the arrival of the guests, to the party games, blowing out the candles on the cake, and opening presents, there’s a lot to do! Here are some great tips for capturing all the fun on film from professional photographer Nigel Barker:

• Use an advanced camera with features that make it easy to get quality shots.
• Always have extra batteries and memory card on hand. Or at least make sure your current memory card is not at capacity.
• Work with existing light. Use the “fill” flash when you need extra light or increase your ISO to a higher setting.
• Capture the storyline of the party— start shooting as guests arrive, when the cake is being brought out or even as kids play.
• Use interesting angles and colors. Try shooting through the balloon or down by the kids' swinging feet.
• Adjust your aperture. A lower aperture blurs the background to emphasize your subject.
• Play around with your camera’s creative mode settings. Also, consider purchasing a portrait lens for easy portrait shots.