1./ When photographing people, use the flash, ALWAYS. Even when outdoors the flash can be used to lighten harsh shadows caused by direct sunlight. 2./ When photographing landscapes the flash should be off, most on camera flashes have a distance of 5 - 15 feet so anything beyond that will not reach and by turning off the flash on some cameras, you engage the slow shutter which enables the camera to capture images in low light. 3./ When taking photographs in low light brace the camera on a rock, fence, or other immovable surface to avoid shake which can create a blurry photo. 4./ When photographing moving objects, follow the subjects before you hit the shutter button, snap the picture, and follow through with the motion. This is called "panning" and, if done right, can create a sharp subject with a visually compelling background. 5./ NEVER take a photo from a moving car, if it's that important, pull over safely, then take the picture. 6./ If your camera gets wet for some reason (digital or film) DO NOT try and turn it on immediatly. If it has been soaked with fresh water, take out the batteries, mem card, film, open up every door and let it sit in a cool dry enviorment out of direct sun. If it is salt water dunk the camera in fresh water then follow the steps for drying. Salt is a corrosive and will eat all the tiny electrical contact points. Note that this advice will not guarentee your camera will work after taking a swim, but, it will greatly increase its chances of survival. 7./ When using a film camera, avoid loading the camera in direct sunlight, often all this requires is turning away from the sun and leaning foreward to create a bit of shade to work in. 8./ Try not to take photos of people outdoors when the sun is high like around noon, the angled light before and after noon is a better light to shape human features and has a more pleasing color for skin tone. If you have to take photos at noon, see tip #1 and use a flash. 9./ Photograph children from their height, get down to their level and shoot from that point of view. 10./ When getting prints made or printing yourself, take a tip from the galleries and include a 1/2 inch white border around the photograph, this type of presentation can make a world of difference.