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Just thought I might start this thread to help share tips on taking pics of minis.
I know I have found this frustrating at times and it is still hit and miss.

e.g:
What settings do people use on digital cameras?
Tips for taking pics indoors?

Anyways share what you know and maybe you will get to look at better pics

The one important setting you should learn how to use is 'MACRO'. Look for the flower symbol, and read your instructions - they tell you the focal range for it.

One of my cameras has a macro that goes down to 10cm distance - most are around 20-30cm - and some have an idea that macro is anything less than 120cm.

Tripod and good lighting are the main key elements.

Tripod is used to stabilise the camera. It doesn't have to be a tripod. It can be a small beanbag. The main function is to reduce camera shake by taking it out of your hands.

Good lighting is essential. If indoors and not near a window (or in a part of the house that never sees direct sunlight), use daylight setting bulbs, or failing that, bright desklamps (x2). Those halogen types are good for this.

A background that doesn't distract from the mini. Some people use a grad (graduated blue-to-white or grey-to-white). You want something that will help the mini to (I hate to use such a cliche'd word) 'pop'.

Above all else, remember the 5 p's.

Proper
Preparation
Prevents
Pi - inadequate [modified]
Performance

What he said. That's pretty much everything I was about to put. Also try to never use a cell-phone camera. If that's all you have, look into borrowing a friends camera.

If the camera has a macro option, use it. If it doesn't, get one that does. Take your pictures in indirect natural light.

Macro, Tripod, Soft Light, Light Box and... Timer Function! Set your camera so it takes the picture a few seconds after you press your exposure button or use an IR remote. With macro photographs it is important to keep the camera as steady as possible. Pressing the button yourself can cause the camera to move, messing up your focus.

What about CyberShot?

my pics arent bad, but not the best.
just a simple 10 mp cam, turn flash off, make sure your in a well lit room, and have a white backround. (i use plasticard)

Use the timer option. You might also want to play around with the preset lighting options. Here's an article I wrote on light colors and light options

http://www.kan.org/michael/mkp/light_colors.php