Got a digital camera? If you want to snap killer candid shots of your friends and family, here’s how. These “perfect picture” tips come from Wired magazine – and papparazo photographer Ron Galella:

• Look for light – specifically reflected light - to fill in your subject’s facial features. Small rooms and hallways bounce light around, which makes the flash look softer. Stand three to four feet from the wall behind you so the flash can bounce off of that wall too.
• Don’t pose your subjects. People look relaxed and comfortable when they’re doing an activity, whether they’re tossing a salad, petting the dog, or looking at the view. Basically anything that keeps their mind off you and the lens makes them look more natural – and raises the quality of the image you’ll get.
• Use your naked eye. In other words, get everything in focus, then forget your camera has a viewfinder and an LCD. Just hold the camera steady and raise your head so you’re looking at your subject instead of at your camera. It’ll make it easier for them to warm up to you, and help you see their expressions.
• Don’t worry about framing the perfect shot. Our photo pro recommends that you click fast and often, and keep moving, getting as many angles and moods as possible. The more pictures you take, the more likely you’ll get the expression you’re looking for.
• Then, once you’re done, edit your pictures in PhotoShop. That way, you can crop and refine your raw material to your heart’s content and turn that quick snap into a beautifully composed candid shot.