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Thursday Giveaway: Target Red Hot Shop Canon Selphy Giveaway

Canon_Selphy_CP770_US.jpgProduct: Canon Selphy CP770 Compact Printer
Value: $149.99
Description: This is a complimentary tech addition to the giveaway happening over at Apartment Therapy Los Angeles, sponsored by the Target Red Hot Shop. The Canon Selphy CP770 is unique not only because of its friendly-fun design (it makes us think of going to the beach..sigh, farewell summer), but also the features it offers as a stand-alone printer. Just pop in your digital camera's memory card and print 4' x 6" photos directly without the need for a computer, while also previewing your snapshots on a high resolution 2.5" TFT display. There's even red-eye correction built in, so you can touch up those photos and then hand them to friends, or store them away inside the Selphy's basket design. Enter below...

 
 

GIVEAWAY INFO --------------------------------------------

How to Enter: To enter this Thursday Giveaway, please comment below telling us your favourite photography tip. The contest begins today and ends NEXT Tuesday on October 14th, at MIDNIGHT PST. We will choose one winner at random. Winner will receive prizes directly from giveaway sponsor, Target Red Hot Shop.

Red Hot Shop is an online-only boutique offering cutting-edge products available at Target.com. It’s Target.com’s destination for the latest trends and hottest styles from fashion to furnishings. Target sees Red Hot Shop as an opportunity to offer unique products. It offers guests an inside track on tomorrow’s trends with a selection of must-have items.


Rules: Please, only one entry per person per giveaway post. Duplicate entries will be discarded. Please provide a valid email with which we can contact you with.

Winners must claim their prize within three business days after the date of notification of such prize. A Sweepstakes winner's failure to respond to the prize notification within the specified three business days will be considered such Sweepstakes winner's forfeiture of the prize and an alternate winner may be selected from the pool of eligible entries. If an entrant is found to be ineligible, an alternate winner may also be selected from the pool of eligible entries.

To enter, you must be a U.S. resident, age 18 or older to enter. Employees, partners and vendors of Apartment Therapy and their immediate family members are not eligible to enter. We will disqualify any entries that we believe are generated by scripts and other automated technology. When applicable, the winner may be required to execute and return within five business days an Affidavit of Eligibility and a Liability and Publicity Release to be eligible for the prize or an alternate winner will be selected.

All prizes will be awarded. No substitutions including for cash are permitted, except that Apartment Therapy reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater monetary value for any prize. Winners shall be responsible and liable for all federal, state and local taxes on the value of their prize. To receive a complete list of winners or a copy of the Official Sweepstakes Rules, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to Apartment Therapy, 22 Howard Street #4i, New York, NY 10013.

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Giveaway, Target Red Hot Shop, Canon, Selphy

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Comments (308)

This looks cool. My tip?

Don't be too afraid of rainy days. The gray-blueish haze before the storm or the petulant brightness of the sun after rainfall can lead to some excellent perspectives.

posted by rhb on October 9th 2008 at 11:23am
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Take pictures from all different angles and try all the settings on your camera.

posted by amelie on October 9th 2008 at 11:27am
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I like to take lots of pictures of the same thing and varying the angle a little bit. It drives my husband nuts but it is great when you want to get that perfect shot and since it is all digital, it is easy to take tons of pictures.

posted by Signe on October 9th 2008 at 11:28am
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Read the manual.

posted by hmr on October 9th 2008 at 11:39am
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Make sure the lighting is good so there so the picture isn't too dark.

posted by dansmith on October 9th 2008 at 11:39am
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My tip is to have a big memory card and plenty of batteries! I can't tell you how many times I've run out of memory or the battery died just as I was getting some good shots. Sounds basic, but you don't always think about it when you are in a hurry.

posted by TX_Jen1634 on October 9th 2008 at 11:41am
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take pictures at different angles.

posted by fmd518 on October 9th 2008 at 11:42am
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If you cannot figure your camera out hand it to the nearest child. They can work anything. Thanks for the contest.

posted by T2times99 on October 9th 2008 at 11:43am
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a good crop will change any photo!

posted by beng on October 9th 2008 at 11:46am
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I have no photography tip to give.....not the best photographer.....but I do have to comment on the printer...it looks NOTHING like a printer, does it?

posted by starsmom on October 9th 2008 at 11:46am
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take multiple shots(burst mode) to get better choice of shots

posted by agordon10 on October 9th 2008 at 11:47am
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Give context and depth to your photos by not always centering the subject. My best photos are always the portraits when the subject is a bit off center.

posted by renee c.f. on October 9th 2008 at 11:48am
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Experiment with taking a cool picture at different exposure. You can get some really cool effects.

posted by modernguy on October 9th 2008 at 11:51am
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The best tip I can give - turn the flash off unless its absolutely necessary. Learn to use the shutter, exposure, and white balance settings so you can take great photos using ambient lighting.

posted by Plaid Ninja on October 9th 2008 at 11:53am
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When you find yourself without a sunshield, cup your hand around the lens from the direction of the light source.

posted by amwhiteh on October 9th 2008 at 11:58am
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My tip -- take lots of pictures -- one of them has to turn out nice!

posted by Lotus1618 on October 9th 2008 at 12:00pm
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Turn off the flash

posted by coffey on October 9th 2008 at 12:02pm
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get closer to your subject than you think you need to be

posted by Twosheds on October 9th 2008 at 12:02pm
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Make sure you take the lens cap off

posted by drming on October 9th 2008 at 12:05pm
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Don't be afraid to get really close up on face shots.

posted by abfantom on October 9th 2008 at 12:07pm
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Keep your thumb out of the way of the lens (learned from experience).

posted by Joker on October 9th 2008 at 12:14pm
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Use flash in the dark and don't shake your hand.

posted by MajaMeza79 on October 9th 2008 at 12:16pm
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Focus is your friend.

posted by tchiesa on October 9th 2008 at 12:23pm
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For every traditional photo, take at least one oddball one. the best random pics are the silly ones sometimes.

posted by andyshpandy on October 9th 2008 at 12:28pm
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When taking pictures of pets, and if your point-and-shoot has the option, use the multi-photo setting that takes 3 or 4 shots per "click". Ultimately, dogs blink or move or stick their tongue out, but this way you have a better chance of ending up with a decent photo.

posted by leanneabe on October 9th 2008 at 12:28pm
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My favorite tip came from a blog, long forgotten: when taking a timed group shot, have everyone race from the camera to their positions (space willing, of course!), instead of just the person who sets the timer. It brightens everyone up, and gives off that enthusiastic glow you always feel at parties, but rarely see in the static, posed group shot.

posted by squidlette on October 9th 2008 at 12:30pm
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Frame a landscape shot with something in the foreground to give a sense of perspective and depth.

posted by harper on October 9th 2008 at 12:44pm
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Don't underestimate the basics--lighting, exposure, etc. The less touch-up that you need to do after the shot, the better.

posted by Jared & Rose on October 9th 2008 at 12:49pm
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Don't always center on whatever you are focusing on. sometimes an interesting picture is when the subject is off balance

posted by angela99 on October 9th 2008 at 12:50pm
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To get the best quality of light in your photos try to shoot in the morning or close to dusk when the sun is not directly above.

posted by naturesshot on October 9th 2008 at 12:56pm
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junky photos photoshop = still junky photos. Don't shoot to edit later.

posted by awdriggs on October 9th 2008 at 12:57pm
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If you're camera has image stabilization and you're shooting on a tripod, turning it off will produce a better image in most cases.

posted by SleighBoy on October 9th 2008 at 12:57pm
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My tip is don't pose or overthink all your shots, and make sure you bring along memory cards. Thanks for the nice giveaway!

posted by mistyriver2009 on October 9th 2008 at 1:16pm
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Get CLOSE!

posted by spatula on October 9th 2008 at 1:23pm
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Point the camera in the right direction. (I don't always do it).

posted by Skipper50 on October 9th 2008 at 1:25pm
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Always get down to the level of the children you are photographing. Helps alot!

posted by gracepap on October 9th 2008 at 1:44pm
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always leave a bit of space above the tallest persons head to make sure not cut off

posted by tiffie555 on October 9th 2008 at 1:49pm
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keep your fingers away from the lens opening....:)

posted by madamerkf on October 9th 2008 at 1:51pm
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This Canon Selphy CP770 Compact Printer is fantastic! I think the specs on it are pefect for home use. I would use it everyday! My photography tip is don't be afraid to get down low to the ground to shoot your image. Sometimes the low perspective is just the right angle even if your subject matter is 20 stories high! I have gotten myself into some yoga type positions in order to get that perfect shot, experiment, be creative, and let your imagination take control!

posted by joannaonthelake on October 9th 2008 at 1:56pm
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In Florida, where there is bright sunshine, outdoor pictures come out much better if you leave the flash ON. It eliminates shadows.Always do this for outdoor shots at the beach!

posted by pambi on October 9th 2008 at 2:15pm
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Lay on the ground and take pictures from the ground up; they look great and so realistic.

posted by huggr on October 9th 2008 at 2:20pm
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Use your manual settings. Even basic canons let you tweak settings. Learning how they work can make a big difference, and will allow you to not use flash as much.

posted by Jose A on October 9th 2008 at 2:38pm
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Try to keep the camera still to prevent blurred shots. if you have a tripod use that to get the perfect family picture. Make sure you keep your fingers and camera strap away from the lense when taking the picture.

posted by samsakara on October 9th 2008 at 2:39pm
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Let somebody besides me take the picture.

posted by idahodad7 on October 9th 2008 at 2:52pm
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Better textures and detail if you take outside shots on a cloudy day or late in the afternoon.

posted by paints on October 9th 2008 at 2:54pm
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I think the best advise is to be spontaneous with taking photos

posted by skalobster11 on October 9th 2008 at 3:01pm
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shot a shot more than once and from different angles watch the sun

posted by mverno11 on October 9th 2008 at 3:16pm
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Hold your breath right before you click! It stabilizes the camera.

posted by missdk on October 9th 2008 at 3:16pm
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My tip? Turn off the flash and shoot in continuous mode. Lots of the images will be blurry, but you've got a great chance of catching something spontaneous and great.

posted by jessica b on October 9th 2008 at 3:38pm
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be patient and you will get great photos

posted by bonnieann on October 9th 2008 at 3:41pm
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You have to take a lot of shots in order to capture those singular awesome ones -- so click away!

posted by jhwilliams on October 9th 2008 at 3:45pm
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take outdoor shots on overcast days for great photos

posted by mason3 on October 9th 2008 at 3:55pm
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Take the cap of the lens (lol)

posted by michael woods on October 9th 2008 at 4:03pm
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play with the flash. only use it if you need it. play with the light where you are. and use angles.

that printer looks like a box of legos!

posted by kagey on October 9th 2008 at 4:07pm
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I like to frame scenery photos so that the the subject is highlighted by the edges.

posted by fangirl on October 9th 2008 at 4:25pm
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Try to take close up photo's of peoples faces. The photo's come out wonderful.
What a great prize! Thanks so much for offering this contest.

posted by peg42 on October 9th 2008 at 4:37pm
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You need good lighting.

posted by sonyasparks on October 9th 2008 at 4:39pm
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Don't tell your family you're taking pics of them. I love getting them when they're being themselves and not posing for a picture :)

posted by gkran on October 9th 2008 at 4:39pm
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Take tons of pics and you will end up with one that is the perfect shot.

posted by tmf315 on October 9th 2008 at 4:47pm
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Beware of backlighting- it can ruin a picture!

posted by oreo89 on October 9th 2008 at 4:50pm
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Dont shot from too far away get closer so when you enlarge or crop the picture doent get grainny as fast as with enlarging say a full subject and always when unsure of the need to capture the background or not drop an F stop or advance an F stop youll waist some film but have shots you can do tricks with

posted by SuperMario on October 9th 2008 at 4:50pm
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My tip would be to use a Canon Camera!

posted by traceme on October 9th 2008 at 4:52pm
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The subject matters. Try to look for an unusual vantage point so a landmark, a group shot, an event becomes more interesting.

posted by captunderp on October 9th 2008 at 5:02pm
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Focus on the subject.

posted by dlguss on October 9th 2008 at 5:08pm
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When taking a picture of something through a window you should hold the camera all the way up to the glass.

posted by RobbieRamone on October 9th 2008 at 5:17pm
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Take lots of photos

posted by sms on October 9th 2008 at 5:17pm
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always take lots of shots because not all will turn out. learn how to do some photo editing to edit out the blemishes that you may not want in your picture.

and most of all... PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE. and learn your cameras manual settings because they are so much better than the preset ones!!!

posted by Alissa Schrader on October 9th 2008 at 5:27pm
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Don't forget to take the cap off the lens..better yet, don't forget to put the cap back on - those lenses are too expensive not to be protected.

posted by JennS23 on October 9th 2008 at 5:31pm
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Always look at the background, and hold your breath when taking the picture so it doesn't blur!

posted by BarbaraM on October 9th 2008 at 5:32pm
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depth of field and a wide aperature can create great images

posted by cjmike on October 9th 2008 at 5:44pm
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always have lots of extra charged batteries on hand- as far as photography- clean lens and look at what you are taking be creative

posted by SANDY89 on October 9th 2008 at 5:53pm
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no flash. even if you can't see the subjects clearly, it's usually more interesting.

posted by emebsen on October 9th 2008 at 5:55pm
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Try to find interesting backgrounds for your pictures

posted by nanja on October 9th 2008 at 6:05pm
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If you are on vacation, ALWAYS get a person in the shot (unless, of course, its some ridiculously amazing view, but who wants a sign of the SD zoo - just the sign?) because in 20 years, you'll care about the people, not the place.

posted by sabrinaa on October 9th 2008 at 6:06pm
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A good tip is to make a home made portable tripod. It's quick, easy, and could be free! Just find a small bolt that screws into the bottom of your camera (where you would screw it into a tripod.) Attach a length of string (a type that does NOT stretch) about the length of your own height. On the opposite end, tie a large washer. Once it is screwed into the bottom of the camera, stand on the washer pulling the string tight. This makes for a much more stable camera, and is super portable.

posted by JayNY1 on October 9th 2008 at 6:14pm
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My trick, always take two pictures of the same thing. Odds are, one will be perfect! Thanks for the great contest!

posted by coriwestphal on October 9th 2008 at 7:14pm
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When taking pictures inside, I never use a busy background

posted by berwyn on October 9th 2008 at 7:49pm
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flash is not always needed :)

posted by x5150 on October 9th 2008 at 7:57pm
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PHOTO TIP-MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ENOUGH LIGHT WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR PHOTO.

posted by strawberry3d on October 9th 2008 at 8:00pm
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get really close to your subject

posted by chromiumman on October 9th 2008 at 8:46pm
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My tip is fairly simple point and shoot.

posted by capwell on October 9th 2008 at 8:55pm
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keep a camera in your bag, you never know when something worth capturing will come by.

posted by dteng on October 9th 2008 at 8:57pm
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check lighting and flash

posted by singermagic1 on October 9th 2008 at 9:06pm
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Take lots of pictures to make sure you get a good one!

posted by redpamplemousse on October 9th 2008 at 9:15pm
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PUT THE SUN TO YOUR BACK

posted by snowey on October 9th 2008 at 9:32pm
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Take multiple pictures of the same subject for better choice of final pic.

posted by ceecee on October 9th 2008 at 9:36pm
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It's always best no matter when you are taking pictures of people to have them look at your ear. It will reduce the red eye on any camera.

posted by kksmom97 on October 9th 2008 at 9:44pm
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I never pose a picture. I just keep shooting until I get something I like then delete the others.

posted by ppekpb on October 9th 2008 at 9:45pm
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Sun should always be behind the photographer, so there is no glare in the shot...I made that mistake once...never again...

posted by aseret on October 9th 2008 at 10:20pm
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Don't be afraid to try a shot a second time without flash. Frequently, the effect is startlingly different and can produce more interesting pictures by allowing for natural shadows.

posted by mousecatfish on October 9th 2008 at 11:07pm
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Use a wireless remote for spontaneous shots of your victims!

posted by bluenude3 on October 9th 2008 at 11:11pm
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Photo shop is a great way to make funky pictures.

posted by tawnjun on October 9th 2008 at 11:27pm
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snap a lot...on you digital camera...you never know what you're going to miss in one quick second. I take a lot of pictures at my kids' sporting events and the best ones have been the action ones...because I keep snapping away...

posted by mama43 on October 10th 2008 at 12:04am
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I LOVE this printer!

posted by Comicgeek on October 10th 2008 at 1:21am
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i only use flash during the day to fill in low light areas - night shots I use my tripod.

posted by europa1080 on October 10th 2008 at 1:27am
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Make sure your batteries are fully charged! Have an extra too! Or , in the case of my camera, some back up alkaline batteries!

posted by shakerbaby on October 10th 2008 at 1:55am
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Move around! Get close, try different angles! Take your camera everywhere!

posted by anyang2 on October 10th 2008 at 2:03am
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get a point a click camera.

posted by idahomom on October 10th 2008 at 2:18am
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experiment experiment experiment, play with the adjustment knobs, use all the various settings, try the indoor setting outdoors, you get interesting shots ;)

posted by AndrewH on October 10th 2008 at 2:35am
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My tip is to shoot from an unusual angle. For example, if you are taking foliage photos, try laying on the ground and shooting the colorful leaves looking up into the trees.

posted by katmagick on October 10th 2008 at 3:00am
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Natural light is the best light

posted by tmcaley on October 10th 2008 at 3:18am
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Always take your camera to sporting events and click away and then choose your favorites.

posted by neneelynn on October 10th 2008 at 3:29am
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Always make sure your batteries are charged up. Thank you!

posted by Tina12312 on October 10th 2008 at 3:53am
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Pictures with people are more interesting than just shots of the scenery. Always try to include your loved ones with a backdrop of the breathtaking places you have been, years later the pix will mean so much more.

posted by marilouise on October 10th 2008 at 4:01am
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Only use flash when it is needed, some cameras default to have flash on all the time. If it is bright enough in the room/area turn flash off to make sure your colors are bright and true.

posted by buzzd on October 10th 2008 at 4:07am
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lighting.. face the sun, smooths out wrinkles

posted by apmc on October 10th 2008 at 4:32am
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If possible use early morning or late afternoon light. Light can really make or break a photo.

posted by beccaann on October 10th 2008 at 4:35am
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The best photos most of the time are those that are not posed-especially with children!

posted by cathy2448 on October 10th 2008 at 4:46am
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Oooh I want me some!

posted by cre8tveminde on October 10th 2008 at 5:03am
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I don't really have anything to add to the ones already posted, since I am NOT an accomplished photographer, but my favorite is to try for the real candids rather than posed.

posted by clynsg on October 10th 2008 at 5:05am
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Try using different colored lens to create a unique shot. Experimenting is more than half the fun.

posted by randycur0962 on October 10th 2008 at 5:05am
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don't use digital all the time. film can make great photos still. get out of the disposable camera and 400 speed film norm and experiment. get some low speed film. get some super high speed black and white and shoot in low light for super grainy photos (no not digital noise.... real film grain!). Pick of a toy camera, holga or something, shoot some medium format. Just get out of the norm. Then have a place scan it in for you, or scan it yourself, and print those babies out.

posted by jmorey on October 10th 2008 at 5:07am
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Hold the camera still!! You will be amazed how much bracing or a tripod will improve your pictures.

posted by shhudso2 on October 10th 2008 at 5:17am
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When having your picture taken, ask the photog to give you a three count, then close your eyes and relax, then open them up and smile on the third count.

posted by djsunshine on October 10th 2008 at 5:28am
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People, especially children, make the best closeups. Don't be afraid to get close to the face.

posted by edeliz on October 10th 2008 at 5:36am
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Take lots and lots of photos. In this day of digital, mistakes can be easily deleted and your chance of having at least one real good picture has been greatly enhanced.

posted by trishden on October 10th 2008 at 5:41am
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multiple photos of subject

posted by zedthewizard on October 10th 2008 at 6:04am
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Experiment with light. On camera flash is not your friend!

posted by baltimorerowhouse on October 10th 2008 at 6:08am
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always keep your back to the sun when taking a picture.

posted by gervitsd on October 10th 2008 at 6:31am
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Make sure your batteries are fully charged.

posted by imjasonc on October 10th 2008 at 6:35am
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Be patient. Don't be in such a rush to take the picture.

posted by ryf on October 10th 2008 at 6:44am
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Take lots of pictures and make sure you have light and good focus.

posted by redron on October 10th 2008 at 6:45am
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practice until perfect and read the manual before you go out and take pics!

posted by grimmouse on October 10th 2008 at 6:52am
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avoid the flash like the plague and outdoor photos during 10 -2 on really sunny days

posted by rcpwjr on October 10th 2008 at 6:59am
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Try to photograph people from slightly above, it is far more flattering and gives great definition to the face. When photographing kids, just keep clicking one after another so, you will get many to delete and a few wonderful shots!

posted by kdkdkd on October 10th 2008 at 7:07am
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Make sure to leave just enough head-room!

posted by amentschick on October 10th 2008 at 7:35am
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take closeups.

posted by vboackle1 on October 10th 2008 at 7:40am
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Make sure the lighting is correct in the room or for the subject you are shooting and aim the camerea looking through the lens to get the entire subject you are shooting. It works.

posted by Nica0326 on October 10th 2008 at 7:52am
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Take lots of pictures.

posted by vibrantfun1 on October 10th 2008 at 7:54am
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I don't have a favorite tip to share, but I did learn quite a bit about photography. Thanks for the wonderful giveaway and for all the great tips that I learned today.

posted by ez2bee on October 10th 2008 at 8:02am
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Ditto to the above comments. Take tons of pictures, unposed if possible. If digital, you can always delete the ones that don't turn out so good. Also, once you have some great shots, create a scrapbook or a digital presentation, so when you are sharing with others it's not as boring as thumbing through random prints on your computer.

posted by RubyOnepin on October 10th 2008 at 8:06am
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Put down the champagne glass before taking the shot, and be sure that really needed shot is done before drinking that glass of champagne.

posted by SandySpanx on October 10th 2008 at 8:09am
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take the lens cap off

posted by crushing on October 10th 2008 at 8:53am
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With digital, just take multiple photos and only keep the best.

posted by Ang on October 10th 2008 at 8:55am
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Take two shots, one in color & then one in black & white.

posted by Shel704 on October 10th 2008 at 9:50am
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Use real film

posted by letters on October 10th 2008 at 9:51am
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Definitely play with the settings on your camera! You will be amazed at how they improve!

posted by wabadee1 on October 10th 2008 at 9:52am
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shoot with confidence.

posted by closertotheocean on October 10th 2008 at 9:57am
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Get a macro lens, shoot close up.

Don't use the flash, slower shutter speed and a tripod will be much better.

posted by bleep on October 10th 2008 at 10:03am
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Don't use the "auto" setting for every photo. Play around with your camera's manual setting options, and you will find yourself taking better and more creative photos.

posted by Aimi on October 10th 2008 at 10:05am
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Set it on bracket, if you're doing action shots, say of kids...you stand a better chance of getting more usable shots.

posted by diyordie on October 10th 2008 at 10:07am
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I like uploading to and manipulating with Picasa.

posted by jkiller5150 on October 10th 2008 at 10:10am
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When taking pictures of common things, always look for a new angle. If you find the right one, you'll wind up with a picture no one else has taken.

posted by ramblingirl on October 10th 2008 at 10:12am
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Get to really know your camera (no matter how commercial or professional it may be) and step away from the auto setting, manual settings offer so many more possibilities.

FYI... Real good tip? wear a withe t-shirt to use as additional light, it will reflect it back to your subject.

good luck to all!

posted by priz_m on October 10th 2008 at 10:12am
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Chin tucked, eyes up when posing for a pic.

posted by BaronVonKaren on October 10th 2008 at 10:17am
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When shooting foliage or architectural elements, you might not always want the sun at your back. Play with the angle of the sunlight and camera as much as possible. Sometimes it's when the sun is behind the object you're shooting that you'll end up with the most interesting shapes and colors.

posted by parhelia on October 10th 2008 at 10:18am
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Photography is just like interior design, it's okay to break the rules sometimes and essential that you find your own eye.

posted by Kimber on October 10th 2008 at 10:25am
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When all else fails, Photoshop.

posted by dianosaur on October 10th 2008 at 10:29am
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Take off the lens cap!

posted by MollyBP on October 10th 2008 at 10:33am
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having people say "cheese" in foreign languages. you get some awesome non-smiling faces. it's great for a laugh!

posted by bibliogrrl on October 10th 2008 at 10:36am
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Carry spare batteries so if you come across a great picture, you're not thwarted by a dead digital camera.

posted by palindrome on October 10th 2008 at 10:36am
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If you are using a digital camera, shoot everything! The photo that you think might be the worst could end up being your favorite.

posted by JLBinBrooklyn on October 10th 2008 at 10:42am
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sun at your back

posted by jffryclough on October 10th 2008 at 10:45am
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For digital: Shoot a bunch, pick the best, and use the photoshop crop tool with abandon.

posted by Jezebella on October 10th 2008 at 10:46am
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look at what the screen / viewfinder shows - just because it's a beautiful place, it doesn't mean it will be a good picture...

posted by lemonadefish on October 10th 2008 at 10:50am
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Make sure the white balance is correct!

posted by AshBetweenBandC on October 10th 2008 at 10:53am
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Natural light makes all the difference!

posted by ChloeW on October 10th 2008 at 10:54am
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Take lots and lots of pics and remember the extra batteries!

posted by RobsGirl123 on October 10th 2008 at 10:54am
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don't center EVERYTHING

posted by greyrussian on October 10th 2008 at 10:57am
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This is so cool, what a great design!

My friend who's a photographer always tells me to stand sideways and then pivot when you look at the camera because it's always your most-slim-looking angle!

posted by Khakigrl on October 10th 2008 at 11:02am
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diagonal lines throughout a photo create interest

posted by duckduck on October 10th 2008 at 11:04am
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Stop reading, go out and take pictures!

posted by otherminds on October 10th 2008 at 11:04am
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never tell your kids to smile and say cheese.

posted by Kate N on October 10th 2008 at 11:12am
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Take pictures of everything. And takes lots of shots of everything. You never regret having too many pictures - especially with digital!

posted by katiebug on October 10th 2008 at 11:13am
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early dusk, no flash!

posted by jln3681 on October 10th 2008 at 11:15am
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take the lens cap off first

posted by rubytom on October 10th 2008 at 11:23am
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Use the flash when taking sunset photos to deepen the colors.

posted by thrillkisser on October 10th 2008 at 11:29am
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photograph something you love, those always turn out the best =)

posted by katiez06 on October 10th 2008 at 11:30am
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instead of centering your subject, use the rule of thirds. divide the view into thirds both horizontally and vertically, and put your subject at one of the four intersections.

posted by lcq on October 10th 2008 at 11:41am
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favorite tip would be to remove the lens cover

posted by rmcgahagin on October 10th 2008 at 12:05pm
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A great black and white picture gives you an array of color treatments that make awesome collections! Try it out with a mix of color filters! you will be surprised of the results.

posted by barreaga on October 10th 2008 at 12:06pm
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if you're not a great photographer photoshop is a must!

posted by nyckrissy on October 10th 2008 at 12:11pm
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get closer and take more than one picture

posted by llinda29 on October 10th 2008 at 12:14pm
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Have fun taking pictures! They are for you-take them the way you want, and love how they turn out. All imperfections are perfect-just like people. :)

posted by tarasana on October 10th 2008 at 12:19pm
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Do not center the subject of the photo in the view-frame. It makes for more interesting photos.

posted by OMG on October 10th 2008 at 12:30pm
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Make sure your light source is behind you. If you are using regular film, using higher number film indoors (400) outdoors use 200 film. Indoors use a flash, not outdoors, unless at night. If you are using a digital (I dont own one) use the redeye option. That way eyes come out looking bright and lovely.

posted by helobuff on October 10th 2008 at 12:44pm
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i always try to remember to get down low....At least eye level when taking pix of people and chair / table height for rooms.

posted by susie b on October 10th 2008 at 12:45pm
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Keep your horizon line away from the center of the frame. And experiment as much as your camera will let you!

posted by Kim913 on October 10th 2008 at 12:51pm
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Take pictures as though you are using expensive polaroid film. I find that if I don't just click away, which happens more with digital cameras, the pictures have more substance.

posted by girlonthem00n on October 10th 2008 at 12:52pm
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contrary to what you might think, an overcast day is the perfect day for photos. i think because it provides an even distribution of light and also acts as a filter resulting in truly amazing photos...

posted by cryniepop on October 10th 2008 at 12:53pm
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I think that most people take their pictures at too far of a distance. Close-ups usually make for better pictures - except scenery of course.

posted by DePro on October 10th 2008 at 1:19pm
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throw away any hideous photos of people you're not using for blackmail - life is too short for a bad photo of someone. Keep only the cute, nice photos and people will be ever grateful!

posted by mmepatty on October 10th 2008 at 1:27pm
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When all else fails, Photoshop!

posted by allora on October 10th 2008 at 1:28pm
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stick out your tongue!

posted by girl from oaktown on October 10th 2008 at 1:32pm
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Take tons of pictures, but only share the good ones.

posted by Melewen on October 10th 2008 at 1:35pm
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cool prize..my favorite tip: keep the sun behind you

posted by peatheski on October 10th 2008 at 1:39pm
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Keep the sun behind you.

posted by rayreadb on October 10th 2008 at 1:57pm
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use natural light

posted by sarahaha on October 10th 2008 at 2:17pm
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My favourite tip has to be *Avoid using flash at all costs*! Using the natural light of any given setting makes such a big difference.

posted by melissapher on October 10th 2008 at 2:22pm
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Pretty!

My photography tip is to buy an old manual film camera. Shooting with film encourages you to think about the shot... the lighting, subject placement, depth of field, etc.

posted by stalebetty on October 10th 2008 at 2:39pm
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My tip is take 3 giant steps closer to the person/or place you are taking pictures of. I found I stand too far away and the person is pretty small in the picture and its not very close up.

posted by malleycc on October 10th 2008 at 3:37pm
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Always carry your camera with you. You never know when a great shot will happen.

posted by cluelesscrone on October 10th 2008 at 5:12pm
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Take numerous photos of the same object from different angles and crop your heart out. Pictures always look different on you computer than they do in the view finder.

posted by phaedrus on October 10th 2008 at 7:14pm
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sometimes the best photos are the ones that are completely accidental

posted by n_n on October 11th 2008 at 1:09am
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Digital cameras give you so much freedom. If your taking a picture of something, go ahead and take 8 more. My favorite usually turns out to be the 5th or 6th photo.

posted by cam1 on October 11th 2008 at 3:04am
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make sure your subject is centered if shooting people, keep the together.

posted by etrnlone on October 11th 2008 at 5:22am
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learn all the rules...then forget them! shoot from your heart, shoot often.

posted by Nicole_F on October 11th 2008 at 5:33am
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Don't ask people to pose, get shots when they do not think you are looking!

posted by kriscor on October 11th 2008 at 5:48am
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My photography tip is take random, un-posed pictures and lots of them. I've found the best photos to be the ones where the subject(s) are not aware.

posted by jeanilyn on October 11th 2008 at 5:49am
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a good tripod can do wonders!!! It seems like a simple thing, but it makes all the difference!

posted by lilers on October 11th 2008 at 6:40am
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take the lens cap off

posted by stinkypants on October 11th 2008 at 7:45am
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My tip's already been mentioned, but I'll echo them: take lots of pictures, using lots of different angles. Bonus tip: experiment with the settings on your camera.

posted by TheMia on October 11th 2008 at 9:08am
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when shooting someone is a shadow, point camera toward light area to adjust the exposure then point at the person to shoot, so there wont be a black human shadow figure in the pictures u taken

posted by legendj01 on October 11th 2008 at 9:36am
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take the lens cap off first

posted by luvmymate on October 11th 2008 at 9:44am
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Experiment with settings and angles!

posted by sewingmema1720 on October 11th 2008 at 11:17am
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make sure you always carry extra batteries. you never know when the opportunity for a photo comes up but the batteries in your camera are dead

posted by teechbiz on October 11th 2008 at 11:29am
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framing is everything. dont be afraid to try to cut out things that annoy you, you'll end up with a tighter crop, and more interesting angles.

posted by rachelmoon on October 11th 2008 at 11:42am
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Read the camera manual and experiment with the camera to see what options work best.

posted by yadgirl on October 11th 2008 at 12:29pm
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remember to carry extra batteries!

posted by C. J. Nedrow on October 11th 2008 at 12:44pm
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Always have good lighting and try different angles. :)

:) Thank you for the great giveaway! :)

posted by tmim123 on October 11th 2008 at 1:16pm
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When shooting people get closer than feels natural, tends to lead to better shots. Also, split the screen in thirds and put your subject on one of the lines, not centered in the middle.

posted by jaosnjulien on October 11th 2008 at 1:20pm
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I really need this.

posted by jessy1219 on October 11th 2008 at 1:29pm
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i always have my camera with me. i carry it in a sock :)

posted by paperdoll222 on October 11th 2008 at 2:44pm
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always carry a camera with you wherever you go, and use the flash as little as possible.

posted by npbradshaw on October 11th 2008 at 5:40pm
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it's all about lighting and always make sure your batteries are charged!

posted by cbraden7 on October 11th 2008 at 5:47pm
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Take pictures in the late afternoon, before sunset- gorgeous light!

posted by mariahm on October 11th 2008 at 5:52pm
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TIP: use the timer to take photos. When you press the button to take the shot, you can jostle the camera creating blur or other undesired effects. Using the timer (or a separate 'clicker' that attaches to the camera via a cord) eliminates this jostling.

posted by Sketchy83 on October 11th 2008 at 7:29pm
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My tip is to carry an extra battery on trips!

posted by Ardy22 on October 11th 2008 at 8:26pm
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Pictures that are caught when the subject isn't paying attention are always the best to me. That way the shots are more relaxed and not strained, posed or offer fake smiles. To me natural always makes for better.
Thank you so much for offering this wonderful giveaway.
I would LOVE to win !!

posted by jsm123 on October 11th 2008 at 8:48pm
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I use Google Picasa to fix all my photos!

posted by JRG on October 12th 2008 at 1:52am
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Great prize...very nice - I need this!!

posted by moog153 on October 12th 2008 at 8:06am
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Never forget the power of natural light! :)

posted by witchbaby on October 12th 2008 at 8:42am
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Throwing a white sheet in with your camera can double as a quick and cheap fill-light reflector for shots of friend or family.
And, in a pinch, someone wearing a white shirt will do too!

posted by NotEd on October 12th 2008 at 8:43am
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Make sure that your lens cap is off...

posted by Delfina on October 12th 2008 at 9:08am
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Keep an old hotel shower cap in your camera bag..it is great to cover the body of the camera in case it rains.

posted by jackie97045 on October 12th 2008 at 9:48am
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My fav tip is a simple one: take as many pictures as possible...you never know when you may have a great shot!
bebemiqui82(at)yahoo(dot)com

posted by bebemiqui on October 12th 2008 at 9:57am
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extra battery

posted by bigtim60 on October 12th 2008 at 10:09am
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remember to have a chip with room on it before taking digital pictures

posted by lfosses on October 12th 2008 at 10:19am
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Take off the lens cap 1st!

posted by honeypie411 on October 12th 2008 at 12:54pm
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make sure the lighting is correct

posted by JCLJCL on October 12th 2008 at 1:44pm
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My best tip is to get my husband or son to take the pictures, as they are so much better at it than I am!

posted by amylou61 on October 12th 2008 at 2:25pm
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My tip is to have light coming from behind me, not the subject. Also take MANY pictures :o)

posted by VAC on October 12th 2008 at 3:46pm
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Pictures using natural light just turn out better in my opinion.

posted by JennVozik on October 12th 2008 at 4:37pm
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Sometimes using an older camera is better than a digital one.

posted by Coconut on October 12th 2008 at 5:49pm
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Take several photos of the same thing comparing all the camera settings, angles, etc to train your photographic sensibilities.

posted by rmpenguino on October 12th 2008 at 6:15pm
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If your camera has the option, turn off the auto-unfocus and focus your lens manually. I have yet to find a camera with a good auto focus.

posted by ncsdave on October 12th 2008 at 7:15pm
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I lift my camera up just above center so I don't chop anyones head off in the picture.

posted by JaniceJ on October 12th 2008 at 8:28pm
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Rule of thirds. Don't always have your subject looking at you. When they are looking away, give them "space" to look.

posted by radiowxman on October 12th 2008 at 9:13pm
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I have really found that I get some great photos by getting at the same level as my subjects. So for my kids I get down to their eye level to shoot pics.

posted by blueviolet on October 13th 2008 at 3:01am
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Carry your camera with you everywhere. You never know when you will see something and you wish you had your camera.

posted by miriama595 on October 13th 2008 at 3:05am
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Have a good background

posted by Murph on October 13th 2008 at 3:11am
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Use real film once in a while!

posted by bangs on October 13th 2008 at 5:36am
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Always expose for the face. Let everything else fall out of exposure.

posted by aaron26 on October 13th 2008 at 6:13am
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My tip is turn that flash off. The flash tends to make everything look flat and washes out a lot of the true colors.

posted by Jen8984 on October 13th 2008 at 7:05am
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I used to take pictures and everything looked so far away. i was told to get close, then get closer. My pictures are so much better now.

posted by egreca on October 13th 2008 at 7:52am
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as the size of your MP's increase, so should you increase the size of your media card (i.e., 3MP have at minimum 256MB card, 4MP at least 512MB and 6 MP 1GB media cards)..

posted by BarracudaRon on October 13th 2008 at 8:46am
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When using a digital camera...make sure you take extra batteries to every photographic occasion.

posted by bfox74 on October 13th 2008 at 8:48am
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Use rechargeable batteries....it's cheaper.

posted by zimmerma on October 13th 2008 at 9:14am
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Get a close-up shot and use a vertical shot when taking a pic of someone standing.

posted by marianalamar on October 13th 2008 at 9:43am
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take multiple shots so you are sure to get a good one -

posted by ms-texas on October 13th 2008 at 10:44am
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Remember the thirds rule when shooting people

posted by lanineb on October 13th 2008 at 11:39am
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Always carry extra batteries in your camera case. That way you will never miss capturing a perfect moment because your batteries go dead.

posted by wmvoss on October 13th 2008 at 11:50am
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Don't center your subject in the lense. Use the thirds rule.

posted by sl1038 on October 13th 2008 at 12:53pm
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don't forget your camera on special occasions or even not so special days! thanks.

posted by ssmina on October 13th 2008 at 12:53pm
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Always face away from the sun

posted by dianna3 on October 13th 2008 at 1:06pm
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lighting, lighting, lighting! it can really make or break a photo...

posted by HolyVataha on October 13th 2008 at 1:18pm
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Natural light from good ol' Mr. Sunshine is the best.

Thanks for your great contest!

posted by nape on October 13th 2008 at 3:02pm
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Great diffused lighting for soft portraits.

posted by Julianne on October 13th 2008 at 3:27pm
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Learn how to use your camera! If you don't take the basic steps of how to use its features, you won't be able to do much from there. Read the manual, at least.

posted by chicagoaudra on October 13th 2008 at 3:46pm
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use lots of light.

posted by hagirl62 on October 13th 2008 at 4:02pm
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Make sure you take candid shots as well as staged pictures.

posted by nesta67 on October 13th 2008 at 5:33pm
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Take photos of people when they are having the most fun. You will get your best candid shots

posted by artmarcia on October 13th 2008 at 6:04pm
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Zoom in on the subject. You will have a grat picture.

posted by honeythewonder on October 13th 2008 at 6:11pm
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Carry extra batteries at all times

posted by Christal E on October 13th 2008 at 7:34pm
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Carry extra batteries at all times

posted by JOYVEN on October 13th 2008 at 8:04pm
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I find most people don't read the manual and don't really know how to use many of their camera's features.

posted by Jay F on October 13th 2008 at 8:46pm
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Lighting, Its all about the lighting! I always try to use more natural light as opposed to using the flash, it will always make the photos more natural looking instead of flushing the object out.

posted by lsl_53 on October 13th 2008 at 8:46pm
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When trying for photos that give a sense of the depth and enormity of a crowd, I lift the camera high over my head and click.

Another thing for crowd shots, I also try to include an identifying landmark like a street sign.

posted by aquart on October 13th 2008 at 9:55pm
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Make sure your subject is not looking into the sun to avoid squints.

posted by willitara on October 13th 2008 at 10:03pm
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when on vacation don't take the usual shots, make sure you take interesting shots of you in front of landmarks so your friends aren't bored when u show them ur photos!

posted by samanthapayntr on October 13th 2008 at 10:10pm
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Sweet

posted by djohnson21 on October 14th 2008 at 12:45am
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take shot upside down

posted by intime on October 14th 2008 at 1:03am
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get closer

posted by markrme on October 14th 2008 at 1:30am
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Try and play around with the lighting for different types of pictures.

posted by trippyjanet on October 14th 2008 at 2:27am
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Always take your camera with you. You never know when a great photo opportunity will present itself.

posted by *** on October 14th 2008 at 3:22am
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Don't have the sun in the back of the shot and don't have the subjects looking into the sun either. Always have the sun at an angle for the best pics.

Thanks for the contest.

posted by dbkagrayson2002 on October 14th 2008 at 5:32am
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For every hundred pictures you take you will get at least one good one so take lots of pictures!

posted by mommyof2k on October 14th 2008 at 5:40am
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There's nothing more I hate more than a posed "candid" shot of people -- I always prefer to catch others in natural, spontaneous (if not the most flattering) reactions to really capture the meaning of a moment.

posted by guettel78 on October 14th 2008 at 5:54am
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I take a lot of pictures, especially when I am traveling. I like natural poses and not posed ones. It is really important to check which direction the light source is coming from.

posted by Michael4 on October 14th 2008 at 6:07am
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Take pictures from different angles!!

posted by BreNKamsMommy on October 14th 2008 at 6:39am
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Buy a quality camera. The extra expense will be worth it in the pictures. garrettsambo@aol.com

posted by purango53 on October 14th 2008 at 7:59am
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Pay attention to the lighting!

posted by freakdujour on October 14th 2008 at 8:42am
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Point the camera in the right direction

posted by supermax on October 14th 2008 at 9:29am
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I am reading all the tips. I take such bad pictures that my son says that he is going to buy me a camera that foces on faces. Thanks for the contest.

posted by yohanna on October 14th 2008 at 9:58am
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lighting is the key make sure you have good lighting or the pics dont come out great

posted by klp1965 on October 14th 2008 at 10:14am
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The smartest tip ever is to read the instructions, learn basic photography, then experiment. So many people think that they have a bunk camera for one reason or another when they haven't even explored the limits of their machine. Some of the best photos come when you tweak the settings on even the most simple cameras, but you have to know what you are doing!

posted by ! on October 14th 2008 at 10:35am
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Tips for photography:
1. When taking photographs, less is often more. Ask yourself what grabbed your attention in a scene that made you want to take this photo. Then try to isolate whatever you saw, without including too much in the scene.

2. For Photography there is no such thing as bad weather! One day, while at the park, I saw many tourists leaving in disappointment while a few like me took photos with umbrellas and rain gear. Most don't even bother to take a photograph in rain storms, snow storms, tornado's, etc.,. Big Mistake!

3. You should NEVER delete a picture while your out taking pictures. Never judge by how it appears on the camera screen. You can always delete the pictures at home, but I usually keep everything. Flash Memories are incredibly cheap.

4. Try different positions, Oftentimes a scene can be much more interesting if photographed low (i.e. on your knees or belly).

5) Get to know your camera! Take time to read the manual that came with it. Not all cameras are alike, each digital camera will usually have the basic features, but then some will have features others may not have.




Really neat contest!
Tammy O'Hagan

posted by ohagan0805 on October 14th 2008 at 12:01pm
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Get an underwater camera case for your digital camera...I have one and it is great for diving, snokeling, or just playing in the water. It is also great on the beach because it keeps sand out of the camera. You will have great vacation pics!

posted by np1978 on October 14th 2008 at 1:01pm
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Don't concentrate too much on what you are about to take the picture of...just snap it. Try different positions/angles, colors, and sizes. Be friends with your camera, make sure you know it. Oh and make sure the lighting is good, pictures usually turn out better. Thanks for the chance to win the printer...it could come in handy when you can't get on the computer.

posted by esmi on October 14th 2008 at 1:22pm
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Always shoot kids from ground level.

posted by Linda Moeller on October 14th 2008 at 1:56pm
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Less is often more is my favorite tip

posted by aprilgup on October 14th 2008 at 2:41pm
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Have a nice back ground and take differnt angles.

posted by jmahurin40 on October 14th 2008 at 3:06pm
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have your subject close their eyes until you count to three then open, smile and click!

posted by fun4me on October 14th 2008 at 4:09pm
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Shoot only when you feel a spark

posted by jlafount on October 14th 2008 at 4:42pm
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i try to only shoot in natural lighting - makes a world of difference. if not, i try to create the natural lighting effect

posted by reeva on October 14th 2008 at 4:51pm
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Remember to take a deep breath before pressing the button.

posted by slehan on October 14th 2008 at 5:06pm
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My tip is that when you are photographing children, do it in THEIR natural setting...a playground, swimming, or just running around, and NEVER make them pose. That's not fun for anyone, and when you take the pictures with them not realizing it, you will get some amazing shots!

posted by knits on October 14th 2008 at 5:22pm
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I try to use only natural light and I take several shots at varying distances from the subject matter.

posted by nsord33 on October 14th 2008 at 5:51pm
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Lighting is the most important element. Make sure it's natural and your pictures will turn out great

posted by kimbly on October 14th 2008 at 5:54pm
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I always forget to turn it on

posted by rosans4 on October 14th 2008 at 6:15pm
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Don't take photography advice from the internet.

posted by stevem77 on October 14th 2008 at 6:36pm
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Chase the just right light for good photos or carry a bunch of flood lights with you. That printer looks easy to carry.

posted by phyllisg on October 14th 2008 at 7:08pm
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If your pictures aren’t good enough, then you aren’t close enough. Next time you take a picture, try to walk a few steps towards the subject, or even pick out a detail of a scene rather than the whole thing in one.

posted by Swtlilchick on October 14th 2008 at 7:16pm
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Don't just take one picture of something. If that single picture you take isn't good, that moment is gone forever. Take many from different angles and zoom distances. Perhaps one will turn out perfectly.

posted by choochoo on October 14th 2008 at 7:53pm
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Take several pictures in case one doesn't turn out.
donna444444@yahoo.com

posted by donnak4 on October 14th 2008 at 8:22pm
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Tip: Think outside the box. Never be afraid to experiment with subject, lighting or angle...sometimes the best picture is one that doesn't fit into all the picture-taking formulas.

posted by Noggy on October 14th 2008 at 9:03pm
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Never use digital zoom on your digital camera, only the optical zoom

posted by rdazer on October 14th 2008 at 9:40pm
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My tip is don't be afraid to experiment.

posted by lilyk on October 14th 2008 at 11:21pm
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