Unless you want to look like a vampire on purpose or someone with a contagious disease, the red-eye effect is one of the most unwanted inclusions in photos especially with portraits and group shots. Small compact digital cameras and entry-level Digital SLRs are especially susceptible to this because of the closeness between the built-in flash and the lens, which causes the retina in the eye to bounce back light back to the lens. To help with this, here are some tips to prevent the effect:

If possible, don’t use flash

The most obvious solution is to not use any form of artificial light at all. If natural light is sufficient enough for the job, then by all means, keep the flash down. If you do have to use flash though, opt for an external flash as it can be maneuvered to let light bounce in the right direction away from the eyes or buy a diffuser. Diffusers can be quite expensive, so substitute with translucent paper such as wax paper, onion paper, coffee filters or a tissue. If you have no choice but to use a built-in flash, then try to let the light bounce upward first by tilting the flash to the ceilings and then taking the photo.

Add other light sources

If natural light just won’t do, then add other light sources such as lamps into the room. This will help the eyes take in more light which will constrict it even before the light in the flash touches it. If there are more lights, the camera doesn’t have to compensate by providing harsh flash lighting.

Tilt, Please

Frontal photos take the most hit when it comes to red eyes. So, if you can remember, make the subject or subjects look a little bit to the side wherever their good angle may be. It not only makes for a more shapely face but making your subject look anywhere but front makes for a more interesting profile.

Turn on the Red-Eye Reduction Mode

Small compact cameras usually anticipate red-eye effects, and so place in a reduction mode. Basically, this sets off several ‘pre-flashes’ that lets the eye constrict before the big flash. This way, the initial shock of the eye to be exposed to light has passed and what remains is a ready subject. Be careful though as this reduction mode also tend to delay the camera’s ability to take the shot. So if you’re looking to capture a subject in motion, just do without the reduction mode.

Post Processing Options

If everything doesn’t work, then you can always try to use post processing software or go to a specialty store which will most likely have a red-eye remover marker.

Red-eyes are easily preventable by carefully preparing for a shot and making sure there are apt light sources in the area. With a little bit of practice and a keen awareness of your shooting environment, you’ll see there’ll be less of these in your photo lineup for sure.