AMATEUR snappers have been advised to “have fun” in order to get the most stunning images of summertime.

Speaking ahead of our competition One Summer’s Day, chairman of Seaford Photographic Society Stephen Gardner said good photography was all about enjoyment.

On Sunday June 21, the longest day of the year, we want you to take a picture that encapsulates the feeling of summer and what it means to you.

To help with last-minute tips, a local photography club has outlined what it takes to snap something spectacular.

Mr Gardner told The Argus: “Look to make the photograph something special that catches the eye. Make it something above the norm.

“Take a picture that you like or are passionate about and you can bet it will be a good picture.

“Above all, though, have lots of fun. That’s what photography should be – a great and very enjoyable hobby.”

He said, not as an expert but “an enthusiastic amateur photographer”, that people should decide what they wanted their subject to be and make sure it is prominent and obvious in the picture.

Even if it is raining, do not be deterred from getting your camera out today – that’s the English weather for you.

Mr Gardner added: “Don’t worry about the weather. Wet weather can produce some great people pics photos and reflections.”

Seaford Photographic Society was formed in 1988 former members of Lewes Camera Club but felt the Seaford area would benefit from a club of its own. Since then it has grown in membership and expertise and today brings together people interested in all branches of photography in a “sociable and instructive environment”.

Argus editor Mike Gilson said One Summer’s Day was an opportunity “to record all that is good and joyous about our communities”.

He added: “We hope everyone will join in. You don’t need to be an expert photographer to take part.”

TOP TIPS

  • Make sure the subject is sharp and well exposed
  • Check the edges of your image for distracting or intrusive items
  • Check the background – nothing growing out of people’s heads or so busy that the subject is lost
  • Look for something that makes your eye go to the subject, such as lead-in lines or colours
  • Make sure your lens is clean and watch out for fingers straying near it, especially with smart phones and compact cameras
  • Take several photos of your subject from different positions – get the best out of the shots and time available
  • Check the position of the sun and try to take pictures not directly into it unless you want that to be your image. Use your flash if so to light the subject 
  • Check, if you're at a private celebration or function, that people are happy to be pictured
  • Finally, look out for your own and others’ safety, especially by the sea, on clifftops or near roads

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

WE have launched One Summer’s Day – a photography competition to highlight the best of summer. Anyone can enter, whether you are a seasoned professional or a keen amateur.

All the pictures have to be taken on the same day: Sunday, June 21. Our aim is to capture a range of images that reflect this day.

We are interested in pictures of people enjoying themselves in the summer – it should capture what a summer’s day means to you.

There are three prizes for adults – first, second and third place. There is also a junior prize for those under 16. All entries need to be sent in as medium-sized jpeg files – no GIF, PNG, TIFF or RAW files please.

Pictures should be emailed to picture.desk@theargus.co.uk