I’m asked all the time, “How do you *do* that?”  Here are some simple tips to improve your snapshots.

1)  Turn off that flash.

If you’re indoors, your camera’s built-in flash will not produce the best images.   So when you can, seek out natural light.  This could be as simple as moving near a window (avoid direct rays of sun) or positioning her subject near an open exterior door (again, avoid direct sunlight).    If you own a digital SLR, considering investing in an inexpensive fast prime lens.  The 50mm f/1.8  for Canon is under $100 and the Nikkor version is not much more.  It’s a must have for natural light portraiture.

2)  Avoid direct sun.

Direct sun is very difficult to photograph.  It’s presents a challenge for even a seasoned pro.  Have you ever taken a picture where the sky looks beautifully blue but your subject is very dark?  That’s one of the major challenges of direct sun.  Move to open shade near a building or tree.  It’s better if it’s solid and not “dappled.”

3)  If you have the option, use a large aperture.

It seems counter-intuitive, but a large aperture is one with a smaller number, such as f/3.5 vs. f/11.  All digital SLRs and most compacts have modes that will allow you to set the aperture.  Choose f/2.8 or f/3.5 (usually the largest a compact camera will go) in order to get in lots of light and help separate your subject from his/her surroundings.