Tips on Shooting Frighteningly Fun Halloween Photos

Halloween is the time of year when the scary, the creepy, and all things dark and dreary are celebrated by people of all ages. Skeletons, pumpkins with faces, cobwebs, and ghosts adorn the houses and everyone gets to play dress up, even their pets. You can find countless opportunities for taking fun shots of your family in costumes, the spooky décor and capturing the spirit of Halloween.

Catch the Mood of Halloween in Your Photos

When we think of Halloween, we usually imagine costumes, trick or treating, candy, and cute and creepy décor. But we also enjoy the spirit of the holiday, which evokes mystery, spookiness, and just a hint of fear of the supernatural and the possible monsters lurking in the dark. As you celebrate the holiday with the family, try to capture scenery that speaks to you of Halloween. This may be an eerie shot of the giant moon silhouetting barren skeleton-like branches, or it could be a thrilling parade of zombie people laughing down the street.

Photo by peasap

Shoot Lighted Pumpkins

Probably the most well-known décor during Halloween is the hollowed-out pumpkin carved with a scary face. When shooting Halloween pumpkins, try not to use the built-in flash because this will make the pumpkins appear flat and washed out in the shot. Instead, use the lighted candle inside as your light source. This will create a backlight that will make the creepy faces stand out even more.

Photo by orangeacid

Take Close-Up Shots of the “Monsters”

Most people wear full body costumes, from wigs to costume shoes. Although it is always fun to capture the entire costume, don’t forget to also get closer for some fantastic close-up shots. Focusing on the person’s face will clearly capture his or her expression of excitement and joy. Also, it will be a great way to show the person’s gory and ghoulish monster make-up.

Photo by Ateo Fiel

Be Ready for Low-Light Situations

Many Halloween shots are taken at night, such as during trick or treating or Halloween parties. Using your built-in flash may just ruin the mood of the scene. Place your subjects near available lighting, such as bright lampposts and garden lights if you are outdoors, and lampshades and brightly-lit candles if you are indoors. Adjust your camera’s exposure settings to allow the maximum amount of light without making the photo appear grainy. Digital noise is most obvious with high ISO, so keep that as low as you can.

Photo by Andrew Morrell Photography

Capture Adults in Various Costumes

Halloween is the perfect excuse for adults to play dress up and act in character with a minimum of embarrassment. Shoot your family and friends letting loose in their outrageous get-ups, ask them to pose in the part of their character, and don’t forget to include yourself in some of the shots by using your camera’s timer.

Other Things to Remember:

– Make sure your camera’s memory card has lots of free space, especially if you are going out for trick or treating or to attend an event. If you can, bring an extra memory card.

– Fully charge your batteries so that you won’t feel the disappointment of missing more great shots because your battery drained out.

– Protect your camera and possessions. Be aware of your surroundings while shooting in the street at night.

– Usually, you will see Halloween décor on the front lawns of houses, and sometimes, the entire façade of the house becomes a spooky haunted house for the night. These could provide opportunities for fun and fabulous shots.