Q. I'm giving my wife a digital camera. Neither of us has much experience with photography. Are there some simple directions you can give us for better pictures?

A. You bet! Digital cameras are so convenient that you'll be shooting up a storm!

1. Digital cameras work a little slower than their film cousins. That means you could miss a good picture. If you know something is coming-- such as blowing out the candles on a cake--prepare by pressing the shutter button halfway. Then, when you take the picture, the camera will respond immediately.
2. One of the problems with flash is red-eye. This occurs when the light from flash goes through the subject's pupil and bounces off the retina. It returns as red, and makes subjects look possessed. This is especially a problem with small digital cameras, because the flash is close to the lens. Professional photographers often hold the flash away from the lens to avoid this problem.
   Many small cameras have an extra flash--a pre-flash flash, if you will-- to alleviate red-eye. Learn to use that. It will make your flash pictures look much better.
3. If your camera has a built-in long telephoto lens--say, 8X to 12X-- invest in a tripod. Such long lenses are very susceptible to movement. If you don't have a tripod, set the camera atop a wall or other stationary object when using the long lens. It is very difficult to hold a camera steady enough in these situations.
4. Did your camera come with rechargeable batteries? If not, buy them, along with a charger. In the long run, you'll save money. Actually, I recommend that you keep two sets of rechargeable batteries. That way, you'll always have plenty of juice.

I also have some photography tips. They're good for digital or film cameras.