What Makes a Photo Great | 5 Key Ingredients

As a photographer, it is crucial to understand what makes a great photo. Here’s the good news, anyone can make a great photograph. The key to capturing great images is the consistency in each photo. Here at Pacific Dream Photography, we have compiled a list of qualities that make good photos great! Here are the six qualities that make up great photographs.

1. Composition – Every image must have a solid composition and be organized. Composition is what attracts the viewer’s eye and keeps the viewer’s attention. Composing an image starts by arranging the objects or subjects, and placing them in a suitable place within the frame.
2. Tells a Story – The best photographers tell a story through each image. Strong photos express a story and bring to mind a response from the viewer. As a photographer, it is important to step back and take the image from the viewer’s point of view. This keeps the photo original and tells the story more clearly.
3. Lighting – Lighting plays a huge role in making a great photo. Lighting determines the atmosphere, tone, and overall mood of the image. A good photographer knows where to place the subjects, so that the light is just right. Great photographs contain well-lit subjects and a good temperature balance. Most importantly, a good photographer takes advantage of shooting at sunrise and sunset. Take a look at one of our earlier posts on why sunrise and sunset are the best times to shoot at.
4. Creativity - What’s a great photo without the creativity? The secret to a great photo is the photographer’s creative edge. Yes, it is key to understand lighting, equipment, and composition, but without creativity everyone’s photos would look the same. Creativity is what makes a good photo a great photo!
5. Timing - Timing is everything. The right sense of timing makes a great photograph. Capturing great photos start by snapping the shutter at the perfect moment. Often times, photographers miss the best moments. It’s important to always have the camera in ready position and be prepared at any given moment.

Written by Julia P. (Pacific Dream Photography at the St. Regis Princeville)

St. Regis Princeville | A Tropical Paradise

If you could take a vacation, where would you go? If you ask us, stay at the St. Regis Princeville located in Kauai, Hawaii. The St. Regis offers a vacation experience like no other. Between the lush scenery, impeccable dining options, and luxurious accommodations, the St. Regis provides a captivating reality. Here are the top six reasons why you must stay at the St. Regis Princeville.

• Location: The striking St. Regis Princeville is located on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, also known as “The Garden Isle.” The tropical paradise is found among the blue waters of the Pacific. Kauai has something to offer everyone. The island is known for its natural hiking trails, pristine beaches, tropical fruits, native plant life, and gorgeous coastline. The St. Regis Princeville overlooks the dramatic Hanalei Bay. One step out the door, and you’ve found yourself by the seaside under the Hawaiian sun.
• Dining: The five award winning restaurants at the St. Regis Princeville are known for their culinary indulgences. The elegant dining venues offer the finest Hawaiian inspired dishes around. What better way to spend your Hawaiian vacation, then treating yourself to something amazing?

• Atmosphere: The staff at the St. Regis Princeville takes warm welcomes to the next level. As you walk through the doors of the hotel, you are greeted with fresh Hawaiian lei. Listen as you hear the staff greet you with a friendly “Aloha,” the Hawaiian word for hello. Throughout your entire stay on Kauai, you’ll be treated as family, or as we say Ohana.
• Relaxation: The flawless resort offers one of the most relaxing stays around the world. While Kauai offers adventurous activities such as, water tubing, horseback riding, hiking, and boating, the St. Regis makes the perfect place to come back and relax. You may enjoy the tranquil pool, overlooking the ocean or rest on a comfortable lounge chair. You may also try some local cuisine at the Nalu Kai Grill and bar, located just beside the pool.
• Photography: Our top reason why the St. Regis Princeville is the number one place to stay is that we offer complimentary photo sessions on the property. Our photographers capture the most beautiful memories of your trip and the photos are ready as soon as the next day. With this being said, we hope you’ve already booked your tickets to Kauai and picked a date for your complimentary photo session. We look forward to welcoming you to the beautiful island of Kauai and the stunning St. Regis Princeville resort.

Written by Julia P. (Pacific Dream Photography at the St. Regis Princeville)