Things You'll Need:
- High pixel digital camera
- Photo editing software
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Step 1
Choose a subject. When taking still life photos, take pictures of subjects with character, such as architecture, flowers, sunsets or playing children. Be sure to center your subject in the middle of the photo and edit any imperfections that appear in the photo.
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Step 2
Be spontaneous. When taking pictures of people, do not wait for them to pose and do not ask them to smile. Take active shots that focus on the activity, not necessarily the person. Profiles make great pictures, but never take a picture of a person's back. These types of active photos are called candid shots. Candid shots make great pictures for scrapbooking as well.
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Step 3
Consider timing. The time of day is a crucial factor in creating a prize winning photo. An early morning sunrise, a foggy coastline, or a child playing in a sunbeam make for unplanned, beautiful photography.
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Step 4
Follow the rules and know the criteria. If you are a avid photographer, store your photos in an organized way so that you have easy to find collections that meet different criteria. When you register for photo contests, read the rules and fine print and then search for the perfect photo. Some contests will only accept a certain size print and some will only accept a particular subject matter. Some contests will not allow you to enter that same photo into another contest and some may keep your original photo.
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Step 5
Aim for high achievements. When you enter into the higher ranking, national competitions, you may be presented with the opportunity to sell the rights to a prize winning photo. If you are ever presented with this opportunity, you may be offered several thousands of dollars and possible royalties for each time your photo is used.
