Five Steps to Better Photography for the New Year

Whether you're out to sell your images to the public or just want to take better pictures in '08, follow these five steps and you'll be on your way.

1. Know what you're doing when you take a picture, review how a camera functions.

2. If you're up for a digital camera and didn't get the one you wanted for Christmas, trade it for one you want. Wize.com has detailed, yet concise posts on a wide variety of cameras.

3. After you've got your camera and know how to use it (see number 1 above) start finding shots that appeal to your artistic sensibilities.

4. Evaluate what kind of photographer you are (know what kind of pictures you want to take).

5. Start shooting thinking about composition (how you're going to frame your photograph) rules such as the rule of thirds.