So why didn't you get that great shot of you're catch on your last fishing trip?

For most of us, it is because we didn't take our camera, didn't use it or didn't follow a few basic rules that can turn our photos into images we want to hang on our walls. 

BASIC PHOTOGRAPHING TIPS

CAMERA BASICS 

USE FRESH FILM 

Use fresh film and always have extra film at hand. If you have a digital camera, have plenty of empty disk space, disks and or extra memory cards. 

BATTERIES 

Always have extra batteries at hand, especially for digital cameras. Digital cameras are heavy on batteries. Be prepared.

LIGHTING

The most common problem is the sun. Before taking the shot, ensure that the sun is behind your back (photographer) and not the subject's.

It is also better not to take photos when it is high noon because of unwanted shadows. The best shots are normally taken an hour before sunset when shadows aren't as harsh and don't cover as much of the face.

COME CLOSER

The most important part of the photo is the fish and the angler. The rod, lures and maybe a net add a story element. 
Everything else should be out of sight. Move the angler to avoid unwanted elements in the photo. Move fishing rods away from behind the angler so they don't appear to be sticking out of his or her head. 

In general, the closer you are to your subject, the more personal your photos will be. Make sure your subject is completely contained in your viewfinder. If you're shooting from a distance, use a zoom lens. If you don't have a zoom, walk up closer 
to the subject, then focus on the main point of interest to make it as prominent as possible.

SIMPLIFY THE BACKGROUND 

Unless the background has an environmental impact on the shot or adds perspective, you'll want your subject to be the focal point of your photos. Compose your photo against a simple, pleasing background. Water, mountain scenery and blue sky all make good backgrounds.

STEADY THE SHOT

An unsteady hand can blur your focus, and this increases with distance. Rest your elbows on your stomach and bring your hands together at the wrist. Lean them against the chin. This is also called the "Weaver Grip" of photography. 

TAKE MORE THAN ONE EXPOSURE 

Take a few frames at different exposures. It's what the professionals do, because they know the more they take, the greater the chance of getting the right shot. 

PICKING THE RIGHT FILM SPEED 

The film speed (known as its ASA) is another important factor to consider. As a rule, the higher a film's ASA, the less light you will need to get a properly exposed picture and the more shutter speed options you'll have to choose from. 
ASA 200 is the best all-around film for daytime photos outdoors. 
ASA 400 is a fast film perfectly suited for indoor use or for shooting outdoors in low light. I would keep some around for when you need it but ASA 200 with a flash is better. 

A flash is your secret weapon outdoors, in daylight, when shooting into shade. 

DIGITAL

Not all digital cameras are the same. The most important tip for owners of digital cameras is to experiment. 

NEVER SHOOT THE LAST FRAME

Exactly three minutes after you took the last two shots to finish the roll, a 22 pound largemouth bass jumps in your boat, smiles at you, gives you a knowing nod and jumps back in. 
Would you like to risk that? 

WET FISH

For the best photos, take the photo immediately after catching the fish. Fresh-caught fish look alive and colourful, unlike those of bland subjects that have been in the cooler too long. 

TELL A STORY 

Try composing your photo so the angler is lifting the fish from the net or showing it to a friend. Leave the lure in the fish's mouth or re-hook it, so that the bait used shows in the photo. Many successful photos also show the angler holding the fishing rod in one hand and the fish in the other.