Photography and Gear Tips for Glasses-Wearers

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, vision disability is one of the most prevalent conditions among adults 18 years and older, prompting the need for glasses. In fact, around two-thirds of adults in the US alone use glasses and contact lenses. Results of the National Health Interview Survey also showed that 62% of respondents used corrective eyewear within a recent three-year period. 

 

While necessary for vision correction, wearing glasses can sometimes get in the way of many activities like photography. This is especially true since glasses can make it difficult to get your eyes close enough to look properly into your camera’s viewfinder. This can lead to poor-quality photos and a difficult photography experience altogether. To avoid any inconvenience when taking pictures, here are some photography tips and gear that glasses-wearers can try:

 

Use a tripod

 

Holding a camera close to your eyes can be extra challenging with glasses. They can get in the way of your camera, which can affect picture quality, especially if your hands keep moving to adjust either your camera or your glasses. If you’re looking for a hassle-free solution to getting quality shots, you can use a tripod from Manfrotto or Gitzo. In our previous article on the benefits of using a tripod, we mentioned how it can keep your camera stable or still. This can lead to sharper shots, as a tripod reduces movements that can affect photo quality. 

 

Adjust your viewfinder

 

Another way of working around the difficulty of getting your eyes closer to the camera with glasses is by simply adjusting the viewfinder. You can remove the rubber eyecup around your camera’s viewfinder, which will allow your eyes to get closer to the lens. If you prefer other options, there are also developments in store for photography enthusiasts, particularly with Canon patenting and designing a tilting viewfinder. This will allow you to adjust your viewfinder by tilting it out from the camera body and placing it horizontally on the top of the camera. With these adjustments, glasses-wearers can look forward to a more convenient experience for taking higher-quality photos. 

 

Wear clear, thin frames 

 

You may be struggling with your photography because your frames are getting in the way of your field of view. To solve this, you can try clear sunglasses and glasses frames that don't obstruct your view for a more convenient experience. These frames are lightweight, making it easier to get your eyes closer to the camera when taking photos outside and reducing obstructions in your peripheral vision. You can try the Oakley Pitchman or Ray-Ban’s RB7047 for quality frames that can hold up to the rigors of professional photography both in the field and in the studio. 

 

Try using a mobile application 

 

Downloading an app that lets you see your camera’s viewfinder through your phone is also a great way to avoid the hassle of doing photography with glasses on. You can try apps that connect your camera and phone, like the Canon Camera Connect, which allows you to take photos for your camera through your mobile device. You only need to download it through the App Store or Google Play and connect your camera to the app. This will enable you to shoot photos remotely and adjust settings like white balance and focus through your phone. Instead of having to struggle with your camera and glasses, an app lets you see clearer and bigger previews of your photos on your phone before taking them to ensure better and sharper quality. 

 

Wearing corrective eyewear can affect many tasks like photography. Following these tips is a great way to take better photos and have a more enjoyable experience without your glasses getting in the way.