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Lockdown got you looking for a hobby? Try photography

If you’re looking for a creative outlet during these strange times, photography might just be the thing. Here’s how to up your picture game.

Sunrise. Picture: Nikki Bingham
Sunrise. Picture: Nikki Bingham

Professional snapper Nikki Bingham may have been born and raised in London, England but Bondi has her heart.

Yes, the eastern suburbs resident loved photography before she became a local, but it wasn’t until she lived in our beautiful community that she started taking her hobby more seriously.

“I have always had a huge interest in photography but it was only when I moved to Australia that I pursued it seriously,” she says.

Picture: Nikki Bingham
Picture: Nikki Bingham

“It was the beautiful landscape in and around the Sydney area that inspired me to be a better photographer.”

Nikki adores photography of all types but is particularly passionate about sunrise photography.

“It’s hard to explain why I am motivated to get up before dawn, day after day.”

One reason is during the wee hours that the light is at its most lovely. This is something Nikki suggests we all capitalise on.

Here, a few more tips from the Nikon sponsored Nikki.

Get out early for the best light 

For the first hour after sunrise, the sun casts a warm, golden glow over everything adding a magical element to any scene. Pack a Thermos and rug up, it’s worth it for the early shot.

Look for unique angles and perspectives 

There are so many different ways to capture a beautiful image. Use low angles, shoot from above, or use natural frames to compose a shot.

My go-to lens are the Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S and Z 50mm f/1.8 S lens, but I love to mix it up to try new angles and gear. 

Picture: Nikki Bingham
Picture: Nikki Bingham
Picture: Nikki Bingham
Picture: Nikki Bingham

Add depth with foreground interest 

Look for interesting reflections, textures and shadows that can add increased depth and interest to your image.

Sydney beaches are rich with opportunities, from stunning views to idyllic coastal walks.

Picture: Nikki Bingham
Picture: Nikki Bingham
Picture: Nikki Bingham
Picture: Nikki Bingham

Use people and animals 

People can help convey scale in a landscape shot. The local characters in your neighbourhood can often make for the best portraits.

Picture: Nikki Bingham
Picture: Nikki Bingham
Picture: Nikki Bingham
Picture: Nikki Bingham

Capture the local spirit  

Focus on capturing your community spirit.

Where I live, life here is all about the beach and ocean in the morning. I love being able to catch that single moment and the crispness of the morning.

Learn more about Nikki by clicking here

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Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/lockdown-got-you-looking-for-a-hobby-try-photography/news-story/722495b3512227a4c43fbad7317f67c5