I truly believe that a good photograph depends on the photographer not the camera. There are few simple things you can do to start photographing like a pro, and capture the perfect shot.

1. The Rule of Thirds

San Francisco Cable Car. Photo by Shannon Hogan

If your new to the rule of thirds your in for a real treat because your images are about to improve exponentially. Sacred geometry has shown the particular compositions create strong ascetically compelling compositions. You can use this to your advantage by dividing your frame up into three even horizontal and vertical cross sections (some cameras already have the grid in them). Place your subject at any of these intersecting points.

2. Get Closer and Zoom In

Johnny Weir Vancouver 2010 Men’s Short Program. Photographed by Shannon Hogan

Removing all distracting elements in the background will lead your eye to your subject, which should always be the main focal point.

3. No built-in flash

There is no better way than to ruin a picture than using that unflattering flash. The flash tends to blow out your subject by over exposing it, and it makes your background black. There is no way that your tiny flash can give off enough light to properly light objects more than ten feet away.

4. In low light increase you ISO

Increasing your ISO on the camera will make it possible to create nice images in low light situations without using the flash.

5. Know Your Camera

Learn your camera and test all the settings before the trip. It’s disappointing to come home from a trip only to learn that you had the ISO at 1600 or all your images are blurry.

6. Ask when Photographing People

It’s just respectful to ask people BEFORE photographing them. Normally a smile and a gesture toward the camera is enough to get your intent across. If they decline apologize and move on. I neglected to do this once while photographing in Easter Island. Right after snapping a photo of the adorable kid next to me I got punched in the arm by her father.

7. Unique Angles

San Francisco China town fire escape. Photography by Shannon Hogan
Everyone is used to looking at travel photos from the same angle and perspective. Experimenting with different angles can create unique compelling compositions.

8. Share

A great way to get feedback on your images is sharing them with family and friends. You can also post images on flickr for other photographers, but make sure you understand and read the users agreement.

9. Take Lots of Photos

Take lots of pictures, especially if your shooting digital. I’m lucky to have one great image for every one hundred taken.

When your on the road your will need a lot of patience- sometime you have to wait for the right moments, climb mountains to find the best view, or wake up early for a sunrise. Your photographs will become your most memorable souvenirs and cherished for years to come.