Top 10 Digital Photography Tips

1. Explore the light. Learn to read where the light is coming from by looking at shadows. A general rule for beautiful images is to plan your photo shoot for early morning or late afternoon because softer shadows equate to less contrast in your scene and more flattering light for your subject.

2. Mix it up! Change your angle and distance from your subject when taking the photo. Viewing images taken from the same distance and angle becomes dull and boring. Perspective can be the most dynamic element in a compelling photograph. 

3. Use the rule of thirds and move your subject over to the side of the frame. Placing people right in the middle of the frame is great for the perfunctory passport and driver’s license photo but unless other interesting compositional elements are present it wont be an exciting image. Vary the placement of your subject. 

4. Keep it real.  A compelling photograph captures an authentic moment, a look, or a gesture that elicits a feeling from the viewer. Try not to force an unnatural smile or a pose.

5. Mode Dial - Get creative and choose a customized Mode Dial setting! The Basic Zone Modes (icons) automatically choose the exposure settings for your selected scene. The Creative Zone Modes (P, TV, AV, M) can give you full or partial creative control over your exposure settings.

6. Daytime is a good time to use your on-camera flash. You can fill in dark shadows across faces created by harsh overhead sun and illuminate your subject when they’re positioned in front of a bright background.

7. Use macro mode. This enables you to focus closer to your subject and capture details in your images that can be too small or out of focus. Get creative with subjects such as flowers and insects. 

8. Control the light. Create a more attractive image by bouncing or diffusing the available light.This can brighten faces, eliminate shadows or soften harsh and unattractive light.  A diffuser is an inexpensive accessory that can incredibly enhance your images

9. Eliminate distracting elements by simplely filling the frame with the subject of your photograph. Don't try to include everything. 

10.  Use color to create a compelling image.  The emotional content of a photograph can be set using vibrant contrasts or subdued and cool tones.  Experiment.  Don't forget black and white.