How to Improve Your Photography Techniques

Be sure that your autofocus function and flash are on. The absence of these can cause blurriness or darkness in indoor photos.

If the flash fails, make sure the batteries work and it is turned on. In certain situations, the camera may fail to realize that the flash is needed. On some cameras, there is a setting, usually called Fill Flash, that will cause the flash to fire on every shot. Set the Fill Flash function on.

Position yourself so that there are no mirrors, windows, shiny walls or TVs behind your subjects to prevent glare. If this is unavoidable, move the camera to the side as much as possible.

Before you click the shutter, be aware of the frame of the picture. Be sure not to cut off people's heads, for example. If you're wearing gloves, take them off and don't hold anything else in your hands while using the camera. This will help you avoid accidentally blocking the lens.

When taking group photos outdoors, have everyone close their eyes and relax for a few seconds before taking the picture. When you're ready with the camera, have them open their eyes fully and smile. This helps prevent squinting.

Be aware of the sun's location and try to take pictures with the sun behind you to prevent shadowy or dark pictures. If you can't get the sun behind you, arrange the shot so that the sun is as far to one side as possible. If you have to take a picture with the sun in front of you, use the flash to reduce shadows on the front of your subjects. If your camera has a focus lock, first point your camera at a bright spot. Keep your finger partially down on the shutter to lock the focus and exposure. Then move the camera to the shot you want and take the picture.

When taking pictures, be aware of trees, buildings and other behind your subjects. In your photos, these can objects appear to come straight out of the heads of people.