- Most point-and-shoot digital cameras have a delay between pressing the shutter button and when the image actually is captured. This can be frustrating, causing you to miss the exact shot you want. Take your camera for a test shoot in different lighting conditions---outdoors in sunlight and in the shade, indoors in dim and bright lighting conditions---to get an idea of how long the delay is. Once you have a sense of the delay, you can plan ahead for when to press the button.
- Compose the image. Look at the photos you've taken in the past that you like best. Chances are, effective composition is one reason your better photos succeeded. Study what you did right, and try to incorporate that insight into your shooting. Even point-and-shoot cameras are capable of capturing memorable photos.
- Your point-and-shoot camera probably has a built-in flash unit. Try to avoid using flash for most images because it tends to wash out faces and makes photos look artificial. Point-and-shoot cameras' flash fires nearly every time unless you turn it off. Do that whenever possible, and use natural light, whether you are outside or inside. This will give you more realistic and pleasant lighting. Remember, though, that without flash, especially indoors, the camera will need to compensate with a slower shutter speed. It's important to rest the camera on a hard surface or use a tripod. Outdoors without flash, you can usually hand-hold the camera.
