15 Tips for Taking Better Digital Photos

By Ryan Oylear

Ever returned home from a day out or holiday to find your photos are a real disappointment? You thought you had done everything right but you left with a collection of red eyed, unclear blurs. Well, have a look at our 15 top tips of digital photography below and we might have the answer to your problem!

1. Know your camera - It may seem obvious, but so many people end up disappointed with the quality of their photos because they don't fully realize their camera's potential. Even if you only use your camera once every family get together, it's vitally important to appreciate your camera's capabilities and limitations. Don't just presume that the little dial with the funny symbols on is for professionals - this control the camera's mode and is the gateway to great pictures.

Remember, the camera manufacturer is not out to confuse you, so if there is a setting symbolized by a group of people, that's probably the setting you need when photographing your friends! Develop a good relationship with your camera's manual - if you've lost it you will most likely be able to download it off the internet. If you know your camera inside out, you will know a drastic improvement in your picture quality.

2. The more the merrier - It is often a common conception amongst budding photographers that to get that one perfect shot, you need to take one perfect image. Well, five minutes in the company of any professional photographer will prove this theory wrong straight away. You don't necessarily have to be taking 40 frames every 10 seconds like you may see in a supermodel shoot, but the more shots of the same image that you take the higher your chances of finding "the one" are. So don't be afraid to go trigger happy with your camera!

3. Keep on your toes - Just because your camera has up to date digital zoom, doesn't mean you have to use it every time! For better shots, your best option is to move closer yourself. Get right up close with your target- this way your photos will have a much more real life feel to them, and it enables you to really capture the mood of the image. Instead of photographing a field of plants, try and focus on one individual flower. This will enhance your photos' imaging quality immediately.

4. Steady as a rock - Use both hand when taking your photos to make sure your camera is held steady. There is nothing worse than lining up that perfect shop, then realizing when you upload your photos at home that you were shaking like a leaf! Although one-handed shots may look professional to the outsider when you're taking them, they rarely transfer as well onto your mantelpiece. Keep you hands as firm and still as possible and your pictures will improve straight away!

5. Time is of the essence - Taking a photo is not like a western gun draw- don't draw the camera and shoot straight away! The best way to find those perfect images is to take time in your photography - this could me a matter of an extra five seconds, but is the fine line between a good shot and an excellent one.

Take a second to make sure the basics are in place to make sure your shot is as good as it can be, camera held firm and straight, finger not covering the lens etc. I may seem elementary now, but that extra few seconds will prevent the most frustrating and avoidable mistakes from occurring.