Nikon SLR Cameras

What settings work best for digital cameras when you take pics on Self-Timer?

Lina
Lina

I'm not sure if its matter but I'm using Canon G12 or Nikon D3100 when taking pics. I've no problem taking pics in the regulare mode (no timer), but everytime I use the self timer the pics get so blurry when taking them on distant. I'm going to start a blog about clothes (its a blog about outfits and wardrobe challenges) and I want my pics to be sharper without editing on pic-editing programs like photoshop (don't have that program anyway). So I'm wondering:

What's type of settings (P, M, No flash etc) gives best result when using the timer?
Just need the name of the settings (and search myself which icon/setting it could be) or a link to a website that wrote about the settings. I've read the manuals but still lost.

Added (1). a pic example, I'm used Nikon for this + the no-flash icon: image -.- so blurry despite its a very good camera.

Added (2). I'm not using a tripod, I put it on a shelf… LOL XD

Added (3). ah, its not for professional usage. I'm just a noob with photography (self learning how to use it) and just want the details to be clearer so its easier to see all the elements in the outfit like this: image its an hobby kind of blog (and I live in a OLD house. ) .

Steve P
Steve P

Your problem is focus, not "settings". I assume you have the camera on a tripod when using the timer.

Place a marker of some sort where you are going to stand in the photo. Take the camera off the tripod and go to your marked spot. Focus on the head of the tripod where the camera will be mounted. Then place the lens in manual focus so this focus will be locked in. Carefully place the camera back on the tripod without touching the lens which would change focus.

Also, of course, you realize that with no flash, you will have to remain perfectly still to avoid subject movement blur in the photo.

One setting you may want to do is set a relatively small aperture, such as f11. This will give you more depth of field and make precise focus not so critical.

Photofox
Photofox

The camera is not focussing on the central subject. You should get someone else to stand where you want them, then set the camera yourself to focus on that person. Set the timer and quickly change places.
You really should use a tripod and also cover the rear viewfinder as stray light could enter it and spoil the picture.
I also hope your final photos will have a better background than an old door and other clutter… It doesn't look very professional!

keerok
keerok

Settings with the self-timer? Exactly the same without the timer. If you don't know what you're doing, Auto is your best chance to get lucky. When shooting indoors, it is best to use flash.

Focus with the self-timer? I suggest you put a broom and a chair in your place to focus on. When you have made sure focus is correct, trip the shutter, lock it by switching to manual focus mode (in the D3100) then run to position, kick the broom and chair away then pose.

Just a little bit of imagination goes a long way.

fhotoace
fhotoace

The easiest way around your problem is to use a remote shutter release.

You can sit in your posing position and just take frame after frame of yourself without needed to 1) manually focus your lens and 2) without running back and forth to reset the self-timer.

Just make sure that you use good lighting where you will be standing/sitting for those selfies. A key and fill light would go a long way to making your images more compelling