How to Hold Your DSLR Camera Properly

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How to Hold Your DSLR Camera Properly

Written by Gregory Cazillo in the category Photography April 14, 2012

Watch How to Hold Your DSLR Camera Properly on YouTube

Watch this quick video to make sure you (and your friends!) are holding their DSLR cameras properly. I go over a few reasons why this is the correct method and how to properly position the camera while shooting.

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0 # John M 2012-04-15 09:06

I did the over the top grip and I forget where I picked it up but started going underneath the lens with my palm a little over a year ago. And yes it did take a little time getting comfortable but noticed a few things 1) more steady especially over longer focal lengths 2) I was never level in the past always had to do a little correction in Lightroom, was aware of it and tried but always seemed a bit off. But I would say over a 2 month period of going under the camera (the right way) the “tilt” correction became less drastic and allot of times not even needed. 3) Adjusting focal length with your palm under the camera easier to make corrections with your fingers while the camera lens is pretty much resting on your palm . With over hand it have to bring your whole arm into play OR grip the camera body hard and let it take the weight of the lens while making adjustments, not a good idea depending on the size of the lens and also the camera is just all over the place.

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0 # chris 2012-04-15 11:31

i've noticed that some really good photographers i follow hold their cameras the wrong way. i don't know how anyone starts out holding it overhand like that, because it doesn't even feel right. the right way just feels natural.

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0 # Linda Pierson 2012-04-17 16:46

Thanks for the reminder...I'm still at the "HOLD IT RIGHT" talk in my head most of the time. Its true...it takes a while but it does make for better pictures. I think I started gripping it the wrong way because I have a stiff left wrist.

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0 # Michael Tyser 2012-04-17 17:41

Thanks Cazillo, igree with you. Ty :D

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0 # Steve Heironymus 2013-01-29 18:34

You nailed my biggest pet peeve!!! People that don't know how to hold a camera. I estimate 80-90% of ameratures hold incorrectly. When people ask me to help get them started, rule #1 is always how to hold the camera. I tell people that your left hand is the tripod, and supports the weight,in addition to focus and zoom. One thing you didn't mention, when they hold the camera wrong, they tend to grip with the right hand much too tight. The right hand should be free to position the camera, and work the dials and buttons. Try the left hand over the lens with a 70-200 mm 2.8, ain't happenin'. Right on Greg!!

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