Taking Better Snapshots

1. Film is cheap.
   1. Buy and use more than you're used to.
   2. Don't show anybody the bad pictures.
   3. Put only the best ones in the album.
2. Get closer.
   1. Get closer.
   2. Get closer.
   3. Get closer.
3. Check everything in the viewfinder.
   1. Position the subject.
   2. Check the edges of the subject.
   3. Check the background.
   4. Check the edges of the frame.
   5. Squeeze the button while continuing to look.
4. Become more aware of composition.
   1. Subconsciously you know what's good.
   2. Start analyzing images you see in magazines, TV, etc.
   3. Shoot an entire roll of one subject and examine your results.
   4. Read a book.
5. Experiment with elements of composition.
   1. Position: Put the subject somewhere besides the center.
   2. Orientation: Turn that camera sideways!
   3. Angle: Get on a ladder or down on the ground.
   4. Zoom: Try using your zoom to compress or exagerrate the depth.
6. Pictures of people.
   1. All the same rules apply: Get closer, vary elements of composition.
   2. People blink and fidget—take extras to be sure.
   3. Shoot them doing something.
   4. Use telephoto when possible.
   5. Watch out for backlighting, hats, sunglasses.