how can I take a good indoor picture of a christmas tree with the lights on?

Answer 1

Further to Dr Sam's answer, do everything he says and then also play with lighting, bring other lights / lamps into the room and try to balance the lights shining from the tree with the light reflecting from the tree, so that you see an equal amount of tree and lights in your photo.

Too much light (eg flash) will leave you with a bright tree with insignificant lights.

Too little light will leave an array of bright lights, with black in between them where the tree should be.

Get creative and have fun!

Answer 2

Try both ways and see which you prefer. You can either do this with the flash or without. If you have a digital camera, all you have to do is take one picture in "auto" mode and then take another with the flash turned off. You will have to really steady the camera for the no-flash picture, though. A tripod would be good, if you have one, or you can use a chair or something similar if you don't. Use the self-timer to take the picture so you will be able to devote your efforts to just holding the camera still.

If you have a that distinguishes "fill flash" from regular flash, try that also.

You are using a digital camera, so take as many pictures as you want - it's free!

(This answer is aimed at the point and shoot user, as I would guess that most SLR users would know how to use the meter, etc. and set the proper exposure.)

Answer 3

Three things. Flash off, Custom White Balance and Tripod.

Answer 4

Use you light meter on you camera (if it is a SLR)
If you are using a insta-matic....balance the lighting by opening up a shade, drape...whatever the covering may be.
If you have a digital camera.... set it on auto.

Answer 5

Set the camera to automatic and it will set the lighting for you.

Answer 6

turn the flash off