This series of step-by-step guides acquaints amateur digital photographers with the full spectrum of techniques and technology they need to attain the professional edge in digital imaging. The manuals offer a clear, no-nonsense approach to teaching basic skills, such as understanding the basic functions of the digital camera and how to arrange a photograph artistically, while more experienced photographers will profit from the guides that focus on complex issues, including effective posing and lighting strategies, color and image balancing methods, and design techniques for perfecting the digital image in Adobe Photoshop Elements. This thorough composition guide details the various components involved in composing a professional-looking, artistically arranged photograph. Basic elements of photography, different image formats and backgrounds, and the importance of color and image balance are discussed along with tips on subject placement, such as using attention-grabbing elements and naturally existing lines to help a scene or subject look its best. How to keep the image simple and improve backgrounds post-capture are also reviewed.