Top 10 Photo Skills #9: Use a simple background

A simple clean background draws the viewers attention to the subject matter that you are trying to capture. A good clean wall, and even better of contrasting colour will really bring out the details of your subject.

If you can not find a clean background then think about using a wide aperture (F2.8, F4) to create a contrasting depth of field.

• Colonia, Uruguay
  Sitting in parkland these colourful swings contrasted with the black background
  
  
• Caye Caulkner, Belize
  On the way to the boat to leave our porter rested his bike up against this bright yellow wall, the blue really stands out against its opposite colour.

Top 10 Photo Skills #8: Change the film

But I thought this was a digital age?

Most digital cameras still allow you to change the film settings of your camera to simulate the differences with the old 35mm film cameras that now fill the closet.

So what do these do...

ISO 100 - It is the best in bright sun delivering bright, clear pictures with a striking combination of vibrant, accurate color, and vividly sharp detail. Great for close-ups and still-life shots.

ISO 200 - When you need an all-around performer, thi is it. It turns up the color in variable light with good all-around sharpness. Great for slow to moderate action, this film works in a variety of indoor and outdoor situations.

ISO 400 - When you want a film that does it all with rich color and great sharpness. Ideal for extended flash range, as well as outdoor shots. It has outstanding flexibility in a variety of lighting situations that makes it perfect for sports and action.

ISO 800 - Great for pictures in most light and action conditions. Truly, it’s the speed that adjusts to the widest range of picture-taking conditions.

So play around and notice the differences.

Top 10 Photo Skills #7: Beware the staged photo

One of the harder things to capture whilst travelling is capturing people acting 'normal'. All too often you get caught trying to capture people as they go about their day in their natural environment.

One way to get around this is to use a tele-photo lens. I use a Canon 80-300mm that on my digital body pushes this out to close to 400mm with the sensor magnification.

Another solution is to hold the camera away from your eye. I know this is a bit hit mad miss but you can grab some amazing photos from some un-orthodox angles.

• Lake Titicaca, Peru
  Sitting across the plaza I saw an American couple blowing bubbles and the native girls could not believe their eyes. The symmetry of the two girls really makes the image.
  
  
• Bocas del Toro, Panama
  As I waited for a canoe out to the islands this young girl glanced up for a second. My camera was in my hand by chance and without looking I pulled the trigger.