by Lynette Crawford

Created on: June 21, 2008   Last Updated: July 02, 2008

Capturing memories, sharing moments, recording our most touching times and inspiring our dreams. Holiday photographs do all these things and more! Since our photos do stir touching emotions within us let's do some simple things to improve our holiday photos and use them to touch the hearts of others as well.

Tip 1: Get to know your camera! Most of today's cameras come with many built in features to help your photos turn out great so use those attributes to your advantage. Understand all the options from automatic flash to red-eye reduction, to settings for different scenes, distances, activities, and even anti-blur settings. Don't wait until the holiday or special occasion is upon you to discover your camera's secrets. Test your camera's capabilities before the holidays. Try the settings; test it in all kinds of light, experiment with still and moving targets. Once you understand your camera's functions, you are well on your way to better holiday photographs.

Tip 2: Since many holiday pictures are taken inside, make sure you have enough lighting. Keep the light behind you and in front of your subjects. If you feel the room is too dark- it probably is- trust your instincts and add more light!

Tip 3: Don't be afraid to step closer to your subject and zoom in. Unless you have a deluxe camera model, a step closer and then the zoom will keep those photos clearer with your point and shoot camera.

Tip 4: Take both staged shots and freestyle shots. Staged photos provide a great record of who was in attendance at your holiday event. It is an excellent way to capture family groups and friends and family together (especially those who don't see each other that often). Posed photos can make a wonderful witness of children's growth and changes through the years, for example, a family photo in front of the Christmas tree (or your favorite focal point) serves as reminders of fantastic memories. Freestyle photos are just as important. They often provide some of the most touching and definitely the most humorous moments of the holiday. These shots record the surprise and excitement of the holidays as they really are!

Tip 5: Many digital cameras now come with software to retouch those photos that did not turn out just right'- use it! If your camera did not come equipped with that option, your photograph printing service will be able to retouch the image and improve its appearance.

Now, you are armed with simple tips and have taken your superb holiday photos, let's use those shots

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