Did you know that on average, according to Buzzfeed research, there are 27,800 photos uploaded to Instagram and 208,300 to Facebook per minute? So how do you make your photos stand out in a sea of eye candy?

Fear not – we have plenty of photo tips that will take your photos from mediocre to masterful in no time.

Think of the composition of the photo as the building blocks of a good photo. You could photograph a model, but if the subject is standing in the middle of the frame with nothing to frame her, the photo lacks movement and interest.

 Remember the Rule of Thirds

Gone are the days when you took your kids to get “professional” photos done at the mall department store (at least, we hope so.) Today, nearly everyone owns a digital camera or a smartphone, and can call himself a photographer. Whether you want to spruce up your family photos to strut on Instagram, or you’re looking to take your photography skills to the next level, keeping your photo within the rule of thirds can help.

The rule of thirds is a loose guideline that applies to the composition of your photo. Ignoring this rule can create uninteresting, and even awkward photos. By positioning the subject in one of the four places the imaginary rule of thirds grid intersects, the photo is given balance and interest.

Some digital cameras and smartphones have this grid available to use as an overlay while you’re taking your photo.

Don’t be Afraid to Try New Angles

How do you know which angle will make your photo look the best without trying them? You don’t. Taking the same photograph from a variety of angles is the best way to learn what angles create the best photographs in different situations.

Different angles can create anything from a better perspective, to a better-composed photograph. For instance, if you’re shooting a portrait and you’re facing toward the sun, you’re likely to get an unwanted lens flare and a washed-out photo. However, you might find that by positioning the sun behind you or to the side of you creates the effect you’re looking for.

Stand on something, squat down, move to the left, move to the right, angle your camera down on the subject, or angle it up at the subject. Don’t be afraid to move. Afterward, you can choose which angle you like best, and learn how to position yourself better next shoot to save time.

Many professional photographers will take tens to hundreds of photographs before they get the one they’re happy with. This is a normal part of the process. The more photos you have to choose from at the end of the shoot, the more likely you’ll find one you like.

Practice Makes Better

Every photographer will admit they have room to grow and get better at their craft. However, like any art, the more you practice, the better you’ll become. Don’t get discouraged if your photos aren’t what you want them to be– keep practicing.

Practice is where every professional began.

“But the truth is that– as any avid Instagrammer knows– it often takes about 10 tries to get the perfect photo,” said Lauren Conrad on her personal blog.

Indulge in some of her tips and tricks on the anatomy of a good Instagram photo on her blog.

Happy Snapping!

Practice composition and post your favorite photo below and let us know why you chose the angle you did. We can’t wait to see what you come up with!