We know how it is -- the pictures you swore would have an everlasting spot in your scrapbook turn out to be better off in your trashcan. That's why we looked into how you can take the best pictures that are actually worth the space in your photo album -- say cheese!

     The first move you'll want to make is to take a peek at the "competition" -- check online at photography websites, (this can be done by inputting the key words at a search engine). Find, in your opinion, their prize shots -- how close were they to the object? How was the lighting? How were they posed? Here, some other tips that'll have your finger off the "delete" button on your digital camera...

 


     Many professionals recommend taking photos between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. This way, the lighting is convenient enough for the camera, while preventing your human objects from squinting too much in the sun. If taking photos in a darker atmosphere, never forget flash -- take it from experience...they don't turn out.

 


     Decide what your object would look best in. Most of the time, objects look best in colors, as well as nature scenes. Other times, capturing a butterfly in a black-and-white photo is a new concept for you. If your friends are acting serious, (yeah, right), black-and-white film is recommended. Goofing around? Color goes best. Of course, this is based on the opinion of photographers, and may not always work for you -- experiment with different light textures and colors of film.

 


     If you're taking a photo of yourself, (or having someone take it for you), spend some time in front of the mirror. No, we're not saying this out of vanity. We're just recommending you practice different facial expressions and head movements. This will help you find a comfortable position to snap a picture in. Another trick of the trade? Take the photo depending on the size of your subject. What we mean is if you're taking a photo of a child or anything smaller, (short friends count), get on your knees if necessary. Taller objects -- use zoom, but stay a small distance back. Even if you're a tad uncomfortable for a minute or two, the pictures will speak for themselves.

 


     The best pictures come from the most unexpected shots. Love to take pictures? Take your camera everywhere. You can get some great shots at the times when you're friends or subjects are not pulling the cheesy, fake smiles. Laughing brings out some great mouth-shots, so keep the humor high and your friends giggling!

 


     It is an ideal concept to keep your arms relaxed at your sides or casually across your chest. It is not a good idea to strap them across your chest, (makes you look angry or unconfident), or at a "bay leaf," which is defined as having hands clasped at your lower level, (self-explanatory). Also, back to relaxing -- taking deep breaths before a photo has proven to aid in the results. Keeping your chin up, instead of down, prevents the look of double-chins.

     It is said that taking a photograph with your camera facing the sun is not a smart move -- in fact, it could possibly damage your lens, while causing too much silhouette. Shadows can ruin photos -- so be careful where you take your snapshots!

     The above tips can help a great deal in making pictures less cheesy and more pleasing. Of course, using these tips won't automatically assure you that your pictures will be perfect all the time -- but a little help can go a long way! And, as for the standard "say cheese" move -- change it. Say "Brad Pitt is a hottie," "I hate exams," or "Macaroni." Snap away!

          Digital camera pictures at a price even
                 a student can afford: www.snapfish.com!