When taking memory photos, whether you're at a neighborhood birthday party or you're on vacation, take a moment to remember these hints.  You're photos will be more compelling.  

Composing your image only takes a moment of observation and makes a big difference in the outcome of your image.

1.  It might seem obvious. But it is way too easy to miss that tree or pole right behind your subject's head.  You don't notice it in person.  But it's quite noticeable in a 2 dimensional image.  

2.  Compose your image so the viewer's eye travels from left to right just like in reading.  If there's too much "weight" on the left side of your image, the eye will want to stop there. 

3.  If you're trying to capture both your family and a building or landscape, have your family closer to you than the background.  Keep them 10-12 feet from you they won't look too small.  And, consider placing them off to the left side of your composition.  You'll get the background you want and still document that your loved ones were there.

4.  Going for a close-up portrait?  It's ok to chop off the top of your subjects head.  It can bring the eye directly into the face of your subject.  Don't do this if you're also getting the torso.  A cropped head should be kept for closeups. 

5.  Speaking of chopping.  When you take a portrait of a subject with full torso, or full body, do not frame your image so that it appears that they are cut off at a joint (elbow, knee, ankle).  Try to frame so that the frame stops mid thigh or mid calf. 

It might seem like a lot to keep in mind.  But with some practice, it will become second nature each time you pick up your camera.  And, don't forget to get some of those memories PRINTED so they don't get lost in cyberspace.