How can I take a more impressive jumping photo?
Asked 6/4/2011
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2 answers
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I’d like to occasionally make a strong “jumping” photo rather than one where the subject just looks awkward or barely off the ground. What makes a jumping shot look convincing and dynamic, and what shooting techniques help? For example, how do angle, timing, background, and pose affect the result?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
24
Probably the most important factor:
- Shoot from a low angle.
If you can get low enough that you can see the sky under the person, it more clearly exaggerates that they are in the air.
Alternatively, shoot against a background with clear depth cues - A person jumping on a large, flat plane of a similar color provides no clue that they are actually in the air (Shadows can work for this too, if you have a bright light source, e.g. the sun etc...).
For example, in the picture in the OP, the girl is either jumping, or simply kneeling on the rocks. Since the image is 2D, there are no clear cues about the difference in depth between the girl and the rocks. If the angle of view was lower, so the mountains in the background were visible underneath her, it would be much more apparent she was jumping, and not kneeling.
Alternatively, place something behind them, that you can see.
Posing in the air is a different issue, and largely depends on what you are trying to do with the image.
Personally, I think it's fairly difficult to not look at least somewhat silly while jumping about, but that's more of a personal opinion than anything else.
Originally by user2611. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user2611
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A good jumping photo usually needs clear separation from the ground and strong timing.
Key things that help:
- Shoot from a low angle. This is often the biggest improvement. If you can see sky or distant background beneath the subject, the jump looks much higher and more obvious.
- Use a background with depth cues. Mountains, buildings, trees, or anything clearly behind the subject helps show they’re airborne. A flat ground or similarly colored background can make them look like they’re just crouching.
- Watch for shadows. In bright light, a visible shadow can reinforce that the subject is off the ground.
- Capture the apex. Timing matters: shoot at the peak of the jump, when motion briefly pauses and the subject looks most suspended.
- Choose a strong pose. A dramatic, recognizable jump shape reads better than a cramped or ambiguous body position.
In short: get low, give the viewer background clues that show height, and shoot at the decisive moment with a clear pose.
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