2. Good landscape photos almost always have to be taken from a ladder, balcony, or some other point several feet above the pool level to get as much of the pool and surrounding landscape as possible. Be sure to focus on the best features - a planter with a waterfall, flower pots on the spa, trees behind a raised beam, or your prize rose bushes.

3. Notice the timing that caught a full stream of water going from the girl to the dog. Also, both subjects are completely in the frame.

4. Close-ups work especially well when you have such cute subjects. Note that the camera angle is slightly down to get more depth to the picture. Plenty of light ensures a clear picture with minimal shadows.

5. When entering either the Humorous with Animals or Humorous with People categories, a little imagination, along with setting the scene can make a big difference!