August 19 is World Photography Day. I am not a professional photographer by any means, but I do love taking pictures. I’ve taken many photos that I love, but I do have a favorite .

That is probably the best picture I’ve ever taken and it happened completely by accident. I shot a quick shot of my kid fishing during sunset, pulled back the camera, and was astonished at how I could have taken such a picture. I even had it printed on a canvas.

I have taken pictures of my children…

…my pets (no, that’s not all of them)…

…and lots of landscapes and flowers.

I’m no expert. Not even close. But I have learned a little.

For starters, wait til sunset aka “golden hour” so the sun isn’t too bright.

1. Wait for golden hour

This would be such a cute picture, but it’s far too bright outside. My kids can’t even open their eyes, and the huge saturation of light washes everything out.

2. Make the little ones look at you

A is over the photo shoot at this point. She was bound and determined not to look at me.

3. Put the animals up so they can’t interfere

Look at this dude. He wants to be in the picture so bad! Side note: that’s our old dog Bear, who died in 2018. We surely miss his sweet and goofy self. He never missed an opportunity to photo bomb.

4. Be patient- take lots of pictures and you’ll have a better chance of getting a great shot.

What are your favorite photo taking tips?