Hold your camera level unless you are taking an artistic shot.

Be careful to keep your shadow out of the picture.

Make sure nothing in the background lines up unattractively with the subject, such as branches coming out of a person's head.

Be careful not to get too close to the subject.

Be sure your subject does not cast a shadow against a wall.

Keep the camera lens clean. Do not touch it with your fingers.

Make sure the sun is behind you. It should shine on the subject and not on the camera lens.

Make sure your finger does not accidentally get in front of the lens.

Avoid Making these Common Mistakes

Backgrounds that are too busy.

Posed pictures. Strive for a relaxed appearance.

Photographing something that is moving rapidly past you. Shoot action shots head on.

Shooting the first thing you see. Take your time and plan your shots.

Photographing Animals

Move close enough to the animal so that it is the focus of the picture rather than the background. At the zoo you may have to wait on the animal to move to a spot the will allow you to frame a good shot.

Let the animal get used to having you around.

Remain calm and quiet.

Stoop or sit so that the camera is almost level with the animal.

Be patient and wait for a good shot.