In the competitive field of photography, it can be a struggle to separate yourself from the pack.

The role of a journalist has expanded as well, and assignments that traditionally were assigned to a reporter and photographer now are assigned to one person.

Advancements in technology allow journalists to take spectacular photographs and videos on their smartphone. Whether you’re shooting with a phone or a digital SLR, producing unique images can be challenging.

Here are some tips to help your pictures stand out.

1. Shoot wide

Using a wide-angle lens allows you to capture an entire scene. It also allows the viewer to understand the location of your image based on certain landmarks or signs.

Readers tend to gravitate toward an image when they have familiarity with the scenery.

Photo by Robert Linsdell, used under CC BY 2.0

2. People make photos more interesting

A simple way to produce more compelling images is allowing a person (or people) to enter the frame. This helps the viewer understand scale and gives your photo some life (literally).

If you’re shooting a landscape shot, frame the photograph the way you’d like and wait for a subject to enter the frame. This can be tricky as some people will shy away from the camera or try to avoid getting in the shot, but if you’re patient it all will come together to complete the image.

Henri Cartier-Bresson, who’s referred to as the “founder of modern photojournalism,” was famous for producing fascinating images with people and their environment filling the frame in an aesthetically pleasing way.

Photo by Sebastian Rieger used under CC BY-SA 2.0

3. Take advantage of the ‘golden hour’

An hour after sunrise or an hour before sunset is the ideal time to photograph outdoors. This is when you can take advantage of the warm, natural glow of the sun while avoiding harsh shadows caused by overhead lighting.

Photo by Timo Gufler used under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

4. Find your own style

Your photography likely will be inspired by your favorite photographers, but it’s important to create your own unique style. To do this, don’t be afraid to break some rules. As Photocrowd co-founder Mike Betts explains, sometimes breaking the rule of thirds can help improve your photographs. Many photography “rules” should be interpreted as guidelines.

Photo by Jakob Owens

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Anthony Vence is a Customer Content Specialist at PR Newswire. He contributes to @PRNmedia and previously worked in the newspaper industry as a news and sports editor. He also works as a freelance photographer.