Quick Photo Tips That Work!
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Got a new digital camera for Father's Day? Were you 'volunteered' photographer for that summer family reunion? Want to take some special shots of your kids in the pool, but daunted by the glare of that full afternoon sun? Here's some tips to get you by, whether you work with traditional film or one of this year's new digital cameras.

Light is your best friend
Early morning or late-day sunshine is your ideal light for great snapshots.

Remember to pay attention to where the main source of light is coming from. Avoid extreme overhead lighting, which creates deep pools of shadow beneath the eyes. When photographing outdoors, use your camera's "fill flash" function to help reduce shadows and even out lighting across faces and surrounding details. When utilizing "backlight," which can be tricky, make sure your camera is registering its exposure from the subject and not the light source.

Don't underestimate the importance of framing
Your subject is the focal point of the picture, but pay close attention to everything in the frame.

Check the background (especially near your subject's head) for distractions such as a pole, tree, sign, etc. Remember - your subject doesn't have to be at the center of the photograph to still be the main attraction. If you have the opportunity, take some time to 'set up' the shot - be patient and use your camera's viewfinder to make sure your picture is balanced and includes everything you want to show.

Look for interesting angles and viewpoints
Try putting your subject off to one side of the picture to make the shot more appealing.

This also allows you to show off the surrounding environment or to feature other people and activities in the picture, which can add interest.

Keep your camera handy! Shoot lots of pictures!
Be sure you have plenty of batteries (and film!) close by.

Sometimes it takes lots of shooting to end up with a few awesome pictures, but it's worth it. And remember-with digital images, you only need to print your best shots.