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How to Take Better Photos

With advances in technology, it is easier to take better photos. Yet, we need the right equipment and a little know-how to make the most of our digital memories. Instructions Difficulty: Moderately Challenging Digital Photography Tips Things You'll Need Camera Tripod (optional) Photography software Steps 1 Step One  Click to enlarge

Kodak Z612 - An affordable SLR-like camera.

Buy a camera that is both adequate for the job and one that has a learning curve that meets your interest. If your digital camera learning curve is limited many bells and whistles will simply get in the way. Look for essential features like auto focus, and read independent reviews for name brand cameras in your price range. 2 Step Two Learn your camera by reading the manual and exploring the manufacturer website. An often overlooked way to take better photos is to understand the full potential of your camera. If your digital camera has modes for certain photo conditions (such as low light or action shots), pay particular attention to these settings. 3 Step Three  Click to enlarge

Lightweight Tripod - Approximately $20 (Photo by bizewriter)

Steady your shots. The value of a tripod can not be over-emphasized, and inexpensive, light-weight tripods are widely available. Other ways to take better photos, without blur, is to steady against a wall, hold your elbow with the opposite hand, and to breath in, hold your breath, then shoot. 4 Step Four Focus on good lighting to take better photos. Lighting is one area worth investigating. Some basics include lighting the subject from behind the camera when possible and avoid using a flash when conditions warrant. For smaller objects, purchase or learn how to make a DIY portable lighting studio for professional looking results. 5 Step Five Avoid digital zoom as this will degrade photo quality. When purchasing a camera aim for the best optical zoom level you can afford. 6 Step Six Practice taking photos under various conditions. It doesn't matter what the subject matter is but try various lighting conditions, indoor and outdoor photography, stationary and moving objects. This allows you to see what corrections you need help with before an important photo opportunity comes up. 7 Step Seven Use photo enhancing software to improve your photos drastically. Some of the easier applications include those packaged with the camera (e.g. Kodak EasyShare) as well as Photoshop Elements and the less expensive Photobot. 8 Step Eight Visit photography help websites for information on ISO speed, aperture, exposure and manual focus to increase your chances for producing a winning photograph. Tips & Warnings Some SLR-like cameras provide the quality of some lower end professional cameras and cost little more than a good point-and-shoot. The highest mega pixel count is not as important as the lens and other features. 6 mega pixels is sufficient for non-commercial work.