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The Golden Hours. The best photos are taken when most of us are either snoozing or eating dinner: about an hour before and after sunrise and sunset. When the light is gentle and golden, your photos are less likely to be over-exposed and filled with harsh shadows and squinting people.

Divide to Conquer. You can’t go wrong with the Rule of Thirds: When you’re setting up a shot, mentally divide your picture area into thirds, horizontally and vertically, which will give you nine squares. Any one of the four places where the squares intersect represents a good spot to place your primary subject. (If all this talk of imaginary lines makes your head spin, just remember not to automatically plop your primary focal point in the center of your photos).

Lock Your Focus. To get a properly focused photo using a camera with auto-focus, press the shutter button down halfway and wait a few seconds before pressing down completely. (On most cameras, a light or a cheery beep will indicate that you’re good to go.)

Circumvent Auto Focus. If your camera isn’t focusing on your desired focal point, center the primary subject smack in the middle of the frame and depress the shutter button halfway, allowing the camera to focus. Then compose your photo properly (moving your camera so the focal point isn’t in the center of the shot), and press the shutter all the way down.

Jettison the Jitters. Shaky hands are among the most common cause of out-of-focus photos. If ice water doesn’t run through your veins, invest in a tripod or put the camera on something steady—such as a wall, a bench, or a rock—when you shoot. If all else fails, lean against something sturdy to brace yourself.

Consider the Imagery. Before you press that shutter button, take a moment or two to consider why you’re shooting what you’re shooting. Once you’ve determined this, start setting up your photo. Look for interesting lines that curve into your image—such as a path, the shoreline, or a fence—and use them to create the impression of depth. You can also avoid flat images by photographing people with their bodies or faces positioned at an angle to the camera.

Ignore All the Rules. Sure, thoughtful contemplation and careful execution are likely to produce brilliant images—but there are times when you just need to capture the moment. If you see something wonderful, grab your camera and just get the picture. If the photo turns out to be blurry, off-center, or over- or under-exposed, you can always Photoshop it later.

Special Considerations. If you’re going to any Indian reservations (many are located near national parks), check the rules before you take photographs. In many cases you must purchase a permit.

STAYING HEALTHY, PLAYING IT SAFE

ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Altitude sickness can result when your body is thrown into high elevations without having time to adjust. When you’re at a mile (5,280 feet) or more above sea level, and especially when you’re higher than 8,500 feet, you may feel symptoms of altitude sickness: shortness of breath, light-headedness, nausea, fatigue, headache, and trouble sleeping. To help your body adjust to the new elevation, drink lots of water, avoid alcohol, and wait a day or two before attempting vigorous activity. If your conditions are severe, last several days, or worsen, seek medical attention. Altitude sickness can develop into serious conditions, and in extreme cases can even lead to death.

ANIMAL BITES

Rangers will tell you that rattlesnakes are more scared of us than we are of them. But should a rattlesnake (or any other snake) decide to strike, stay calm and still (panic and a lot of movement can spread the poison). Have someone else get medical help for you right away. If you are bitten by any other wild animal—even a small one— seek medical attention immediately. You may need a rabies or tetanus shot.

HYPOTHERMIA

When your body gets too cold for too long, hypothermia can develop. Symptoms are chills, fatigue, shivering, and lack of mental clarity. If someone you’re