There’s a saying in the National Park System that goes, “Take only photos, leave only footprints.” One of the best ways to enjoy the parks without ruining them for everyone else is to take lots of photos. Here are some of my tips for taking the best photos you can when you visit our national parks.

• Choose the time of day. The best times are sunrise, sunset, or just before or after they occur. The colors of the park will be richer (depending on the view, of course), and the details in mountain, canyon, and meadow will stand out more clearly.
• Avoid midday, when the light is directly overhead. It can wash out colors and make everything look hazy or gray.
• Try to include some skyline in your photos, especially if there are dramatic clouds. It will give a better idea of the size of your view and area.
• Try to frame your view with something of interest to add depth and texture to your photo. For example, if you’re taking a shot of a Yosemite waterfall, place a tree branch or trunk along one side or the top of the frame. By adding a frame to the picture, you’ll make it more interesting and visually pleasing.
• Include some closeups of flowers or trees, and of your friends and family, so you have memories of everything you saw and did.

Taking photos of your national park visits will give you great memories for years to come, and you just might find you have a real interest in photography, too!