Using Your Digital Camera’s Timer for Creative Photos

Start by checking out the features on your timer:

1. Do a test run to see how long the timer waits to take a photo. Typically, the wait will be 10 seconds. However, on many cameras the length of time on the timer is adjustable.
2. Look at the front of the camera as the timer waits to take a photo. How does your camera warn you that the picture is about to be taken? Many camera will have a red light that flashes each second, then will speed up for the last few seconds as a warning before the shutter snaps. Your camera might also beep as the timer is about to go off, which will be very helpful when using the timer to photograph people.
3. Find out whether your camera will automatically set the ISO, f-stop, and shutter speed for timed shots. For most situations, an automatic setting will be fine if the camera is resting on something to prevent movement as the picture is taken. You may want to manually adjust these settings for certain effects.

The most obvious use of the camera timer is simple - to get the photographer into the shot! If you're alone, the timer makes it easy to take a shot of yourself. Set the camera on something sturdy and at least a foot or two off the ground, such as a rock or a table. Make sure the path is clear between the camera location and where you'd like to stand for the photo. Once you've activated the timer, get yourself into position and wait for the camera to snap your photo.

Get creative: Place yourself off to the side of the photo. Try looking away from the camera so that the photo shows your profile or your back. Interact with the scenery for a "candid" look. The timer allows you to get creative by doing something other than the typical, forward-facing, smiling self-portrait.