6S Photography Helpful Hints
6S Photography Helpful Hints
Hint #1: Don’t overdo it!
Photographs can be powerful tools, but they can also be overused. It is best to choose a few pictures that tell a story clearly than using too many photos. Look for the “money shot” – the shot that exemplifies the current conditions of the target area. One shot that evokes an impression is better than several of the same condition.
Hint #2: Make the photos real.
The best photographic shots are taken when the target area is being used. In other words, make the shots “real,” not staged. Don’t clean up before shooting. Don’t announce the photo shoot ahead of time.
Hint #3: Remember the purpose of your task.
Remember that you are trying to create a photographic story, so it is best to take pictures, over time, from the exact same location. Also remember to create a story from the outside in, from large to small, from obvious to not so obvious. Always get shots inside drawers, cabinets, and closets.
Hint #4: Gather the right equipment and supplies for the task.
Before taking pictures, make sure you have the camera ready. It is recommended to use a digital camera for easy use and immediate printing. Make sure you have a charged camera that isn’t malfunctioning with the appropriate computer cable handy for download and printing.
Hint #5: Use fixed point photography method
Before you start shooting, as you are identifying the potential shots that will best tell the story of the problems and current conditions of the target area, mark potential locations by tagging a focal point on the floor where you will stand for the shot. This concept is known as fixed point photography and will ensure that you get an excellent comparison of before and after pictures.
Hint #6: View the target area as if seeing it for the first time.
It’s often a good idea to have people that do not spend much time in the target area participate in 6S activities because they will often approach it with a fresh set of eyes and no previous perspectives on the area. Question everything in the target area. Get shots of open drawers, cabinets, closets and anywhere else in which problems can hide. Also get shots from under and above – the camera can help you discover things.
Hint #7: Print your photographs as quickly as possible.
This is why you should be using a digital camera. If you take digital shots and can immediately plug them into an LCD projector or print color copies to view with the team, participants can begin analyzing and solving problems immediately.
Hint #8: Label your printed photographs.
Hint #9: Create a visual display of your photographs and areas of improvement
