Let kids be kids and pets be pets — you'll get better pictures by photographing them at play. Have them play with toys or each other; catching kids and pets in action makes for very compelling shots. For more formal, portrait-like pictures, provide some gentle activity beforehand to help burn off nervous energy and the need to fidget. Share your shots on your digital camera's LCD screen as you take them, so kids can "see" the results. Offer rewards for good behavior.

 Favorite toys, treats and family members can help hold a pet's attention and create a focal point in the photograph.
A familiar word, a squeak from a toy or the scent of a treat will provoke that charming cock of the head, an alert, eager look and a happy reaction.

 Shoot at your subject's level or from extreme, even distorting angles. Sit or lie on the floor or elevate an animal to your level. Imagine a cute shot of your pet taken with the camera almost touching the tip of his nose. Close-ups of a child's tiny hands, toes and ears can be magical.

 To avoid red-eye, it's best to shoot outdoors (especially for animals). For indoor subjects, use a bounce flash (check the flash settings on your camera for this option), or shoot in a well-lighted room. If all else fails, you can fix red-eye on Shutterfly and salvage lots of great pictures.

 Be patient, and keep your sense of humor and adventure! Not every shot you take is going to be a mind-blower... a few of them will be great, as long as you keep things loose and keep snapping!

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