Great pictures and quick tips on how to achieve them.

1. Get close to your subject.

There is often the temptation to use wide angle lens in order to 'get everything in'. But this can lead to your photographs being cluttered with meaningless images that do nothing to give meaning to the photograph, and detract from the power of your subject. Moving closer to your subject eliminates much of this external clutter, and always portray a more intimate and meaningful image.

2. Use the law of thirds.

This is a law often used by artists to make their pictures more alive and appealing to the eye. Divide the frame into thirds, either horizontally, vertically or both, and place an image on any of the division lines. This avoids the tendency to centre subjects - a practice that keeps the eye riveted to this central point rather than allowing it to wander around the image.

3. Pay attention to light.

Light is one of the most important elements in creating a good photograph, and bad lighting can make a good composition null and void. The time of day that you shoot your pictures is important - early morning or late afternoon is the best. Positioning yourseld so that the sun is behind you also helps to create better lighting. Make use of dramatic lighting features - such as rays of sun streaming through clouds - to make your photographs more compelling.

4. Hold your camera steady. An otherwise perfect photograph can be utterly ruined by camera shake, resulting in a blurred, jumpy effect. When holding your camera you should be relaxed, as tensing up will almost certainly result in a wobbly grasp. Bracing your elbows on your chest can also help to minimise the shakes. Alternatively, use a tripod, particularly when using a long exposure.