Getting sharp images can be frustrating sometimes...I get it...if it's not running kiddos or low light, then it's someone bumping you or sneezing in the middle of the madness!

If you've been at this long enough too, you know that it DOES take some practice too...it takes some "revamping" of your mindset and forcing yourself to do things in the moment that don't come naturally (UNTIL you've practiced awhile)

With that said, here are some practical tips that will perhaps get you on the right track!

1. You gotta have a GOOD lens (preferably a PRIME). I hate to tell ya, but, kit lenses and the regular zooms that came with your camera are just not made to be as tack sharp as other lenses.  At the same time, if you don't know HOW to use a prime lens, you'll still get blurry pictures...(this is where a Snapshop comes in handy to learn the basics of camera functions and how it pertains to lens usage)

2. Do NOT go below 1/250 on your shutterspeed.  I know, I know...it seems impossible when indoors...and I understand.  Indoors you could "maybe" go to 1/125, but make sure you are REALLY following the rest of these tips so that you have the best chance, especially with moving kiddos!

3. Lock your arms & elbows.  You could even lean against a wall.  You want to pull your body in as tight as you can when you are focusing in on a shot.  The less movement you make, the better chance of a tack sharp image.

4. Hold your breath.  I know this sounds crazy, but, in the beginning, I don't think we all realize just how much our bodies move.  Mine moves like crazy because I have this unbelievable amount of adrenaline and excitement going on when I'm taking pictures...I have to remember to calm my insides down, just for that second and HOLD IT...it's not long, but you'd be amazed what even just that millimeter of a breath can do.

5. Be gentle with the shutter release button.  All the locking elbows and holding your breath, aren't going to be enough if you are crankin' down that button hard...those sharp, rough movements cause camera shake.  So, when you are focused in on a subject, press that button gently to produce the image shot.

6. Use Back Button Focus.  This became such a game changer for me!  I was suddenly able to figure out how to get my daughters' kicking a soccer ball mid air and it looked AWESOME!  If you are a part of the Snapshop Community, be sure to check out the video tutorial I posted in our private Facebook group!

7. Toggle your focal point.  I love toggling...I like the word "toggle" too...isn't just silly coming off your lips?  I digress... This is something else we discuss in a Snapshop AND will go more in depth with in a Snapshop #2...Move your focal points so that you don't have to jerk your camera to focus on your subjects.

8. Make sure everything you want in focus is on the SAME PLANE.  Some will argue that it's better to just shoot with a higher aperture and NOT to shoot wide open.  For beginners, I would say this is true.  Start with your aperture higher than 3 before you venture into the realms of 1.8 and 2.2!  However, for those that have been working with your prime lens...it's IMPERATIVE that your subjects all are on the same plane! Pretend their noses are pressed up against the same piece of glass. Depth of field is also VERY important when shooting wide open as well.  (again, more to talk about in a Snapshop #2)