14. Only Use Photoshop As A Last Resort Or Port Of Last Call. Force Yourself To Achieve Your Best With The Camera

Try to use photo editing software as rarely as possible until you have a clear understanding of the abilities and limitations of your camera. Although there are always things you can do to improve or even save a shot in Photoshop it can lull you into a kind of laziness with the act of photographing itself.

The final result of this will be a stunting in your development as a photographer (although you will probably get pretty good with the software!) and ultimately you will hit the wall creatively. Unable to really "get" that shot you want because you haven't progressed technically or creatively with the camera.

Whenever Possible Shoot Using a Tripod or Alternately BE the Tripod

No this isn't a lesson in method acting. Obviously there are many situations where using a tripod is simply impracticle but...

It is a good idea to always think of stabilizing the camera at least in some way if possible. The greater the zoom you are dealing with, the greater the compensation you are making for low light the greater the possibility that camera shake will enter in.

If you can't use a tripod or monopod then try to make yourself into on. Lean against a wall or even lock your elbows against the side of your body.