TIP ONE Take some of your photographs in black & white. Most digital cameras have settings that allow you to switch between color and b & w. If you forget to change these settings while your out taking pictures, you can always convert the images afterwards using a photo editing tool like Adobe Photoshop.

TIP TWO Don’t overlook the little things. Get down on your knees and take a few close-ups. There’s a whole world at your feet that will provide some wonderful opportunities. Flowers and insects make great subject matter and the two will often go hand-in-hand.

TIP THREE Don’t center every photograph. The shadow of this tiny pine tree helps to balance the image and creates an interesting composition.

TIP FOUR Waiting for the right light. The best times to take photos will be early in the morning or late in the evening. Scope out some favorite locations and head out at disk when the ambient light is less likely to wash out your pictures.

TIP FIVE Fill the frame to create more dramatic visual effects. By cropping in on the top portion of this barn, the storm clouds appear to sit just above the roof.

TIP SIX Don’t let the rain keep you indoors. With a little planning you can turn a rainy day into a very productive outing...and you’ll probably have your favorite trails all to yourself.

TIP SEVEN Place yourself on the same level as your subject. This creates an intimate relationship with the subject...dead or alive!

TIP EIGHT  Look for contrasting subjects. The soft clouds floating across the top of this building.

TIP NINE Make eye contact. Photographing wildlife can be tricky, but if you can get within a safe distance without disturbing the animal, it will create a powerful connection between your subject and the viewer.

TIP TEN Take plenty of photos. Digital cameras make it easy to edit and delete unwanted images on the fly, so keep shooting. You’ll be happy you did.