Hints and Tips on Exposure In this section are a number of suggestions for improving your results when taking pictures or entering into our competitions. If members have any suggestions for tips or would like to submit your own tips, please email them to the webmaster.   Steve Costin, Webmaster Take your time If possible, avoid just pointing and shooting.  Take a moment or two to choose the best angle for your shot.  If you can, use a tripod or monopod to avoid camera shake. Remember the Rule of Thirds Pictures have more impact if the subject is off-centre.  Try to imagine your picture is split into 3 horizontal and vertical sections and find the best composition by placing the main subject on each of 4 the intersections before taking the shot. Walk or Zoom A good photograph occurs when the subject fills as much of the frame as possible.  Don't forget to use your feet to get closer to your subject as well as a zoom lens.  Watch Out! Avoid including objects like fingers, graffiti, signs, lamp-posts or plants that look like they are growing out of your subject's head.  You don't want to divert the viewer's eye from the main subject.   Keep it Simple Wherever possible, avoid busy backgrounds or trying to cram too much into your picture.  If it's unavoidable, use a wide aperture to blur the background. Different Views Don't just take your picture at your eye level.  Try kneeling, lying on the floor, standing on a chair or ladder, holding the camera at an angle, etc.   Use the Surroundings Have a look around your immediate vicinity and think how it could be used to improve your picture, e.g. move about so that your subject can be framed by an archway or tree branches, etc.   Pick your Light Photography is all about light.  The morning or evening gives warm soft sunlight.  Midday sun can be very strong and cast heavy shadows.  Bright cloudy days will cast fewer shadows and can be excellent for outdoor portraits.  Think also about incorporating reflections or shadows to add contrast and depth. © Isle of Thanet Photographic Society