The images we see through photography have now become one of the most powerful communication tools in the digital era. As we understand, photography in visual communication contains elements of non-verbal or unspoken message delivery. Beyond capturing emotions and specific moments, photography also serves other functions, such as delivering messages and context (advertisements, news, and campaigns), interpersonal communication and self-image (selfies), and organizational communication (event documentation and branding for a brand or company).

Although photography has a low "skill floor"—meaning it is easily accessible to the majority of enthusiasts—it actually possesses a high "skill ceiling," or a relatively complex level of mastery. Several things must be understood to produce authentic, high-quality images. Here are the various aspects that must be considered during a photography session:

1. Pay Attention to Shutter Speed When Taking Pictures

Think of Shutter Speed as the duration the camera’s "eyelid" remains open. If you use a slow Shutter Speed, such as 1/4 of a second, the camera sensor will be exposed to light for longer, making the photo brighter but risking making moving objects look blurry. Conversely, a fast Shutter Speed, such as 1/250 of a second, will "freeze" motion so that objects appear sharp, but less light enters, tending to make the photo darker.

2. Depth of Field Through Focus is Key to Storytelling

When UNDIRA friends take a picture, there is an option to focus the lens on a chosen object; this aspect is known as Depth of Field (DoF). Depth of Field itself is controlled by a feature known as Aperture, and generally, it can be found in different levels depending on the object's distance, focus settings, and the type of lens used.

The smaller the lens aperture (higher f-numbers like f/11 or more), the greater the range of the image that can be captured in focus (deep depth of field). Conversely, the larger the camera’s aperture setting (lower f-numbers like f/2.2 or f/1.4), the focus will be directed towards closer objects to absorb more detail and light (shallow depth of field).

3. Prioritize Framing and the Rule of Thirds

In camera modes, there is a setting called grid mode. By using grid mode, UNDIRA friends will be able to see the composition better and arrange the placement of objects to fit the desired shooting position. In the world of photography, this is known as the Rule of Thirds.

4. Editing with the Right Composition

When UNDIRA friends edit photos using software such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, Affinity Photo, or Canva, there are several things to consider so that your editing results are satisfying.

When editing, ensure that we at least understand concepts such as brightness, contrast, shadow, highlight, whites, and blacks. This is because these various modes allow us to adjust the levels of sharpness, brightness, and color contrast so that the resulting photo matches our vision.

Photography is an irreplaceable messenger and a symbol of how a concept can be realized. Through the right shooting techniques, with considerations such as lighting, object sharpness, and focus placed at the right point, our images can tell a story full of aesthetics.

The true power of a photo lies in the hands of a knowledgeable photographer and editor. Thus, understanding and directly practicing photography knowledge—such as Shutter Speed settings, Aperture, and composition—are the steps that can be taken to produce good photos.

With the growing interest and popularity of photography among Generation Z today, the Communication Science Study Program at Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA) is the answer for UNDIRA friends interested in the world of photography. With Photography as one of the main courses, it is a top choice for UNDIRA friends who want to master and further develop their photography competencies. UNDIRA also has supporting facilities, such as the Communication Science Lab, which is equipped with various tools to develop students' multimedia skills.