Technical tricks:
On-camera flashes are notoriously harsh. Try placing a small piece of parchment paper over the flash, being careful not to cover anything else, like the auto-focus window. This will soften the light that the flash produces so that you don't get the usual harsh shadows. -Jim Norton
People get frustrated with digital cameras when they miss a shot because of the delay after pushing the button. To avoid this, frame your shot and hold the shutter button halfway down to “pre-focus.” Wait until you see something you like in the viewfinder or onscreen, then press the shutter all the way down. -Mark Burstyn
Zoom out your lens so that it's a bit longer. This drops backgrounds out of focus and tightens up your foreground subject. -Edward Pond
Posed perfection:
To shoot children, get down on their level and wait for expressions while they open presents. For family pictures, I get people close to one another. They can't help but smile when they're elbow to elbow. Don't forget to shoot fast and make sure people enjoy being photographed by you. It's more fun if you're having fun. -Virginia Macdonald
If you're taking photos in front of a window, take the picture from an angle. This will give you a better exposure during the day, and your flash won't show up in the reflection of the window, day or night. -Robin Stubbert
Don't put people right in the middle of the frame—get creative. Avoid distracting backgrounds, especially mirrors or windows that will reflect the flash. -Michael Graydon
Back to basics:
It's obvious, but make sure you are familiar with your camera and that all of your batteries are charged with extras on hand. Have your memory cards formatted or rolls of film ready. -Stacey Haines
A ridiculous way of achieving a ‘good' smile is to get subjects to say ‘Whisky.' It gives an attractive roundness to the smile. But don't feel obliged to ask for a smile either—let subjects be themselves and an interesting shot will emerge. -Angus McRitchie
Pre-Christmas baking is a great time to get cute pictures. Try getting a close-up of chubby kid hands when they are creating their cookie masterpieces. Adorable. - Janis Nicolay
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