If you've ever used the "Sharpen" feature in your photo editing software, it becomes apparent how much our camera does move when taking a photo...even if we think we're perfectly still! Optimizing your set-up and technique will decrease the need for fussing over your photos later.

There are some simple tips you can try to lessen the blur in your photos:

• There's the old stand by...take a breath, hold it while you depress the shutter, and then exhale.

• Another simple way to improve your photos is to press the button gently when you take a picture. Pressing it hard or fast can cause camera movement, making the picture appear blurred or out of focus.

• Using a tripod will make a big difference in the clarity of your photos. Tripods come with a variety of features, so read a bunch of descriptions before purchasing, to familiarize yourself with what's available. I have to have my 'elevator' handle, so I can crank the camera up or down to capture different areas of the item I'm photographing, without having to tilt the camera. I have a small office, so moving the camera is much easier than moving the mannequin or photo tent.

• My favorite technique works with your tripod. Check your manual or manufacturer's website to see if your camera has a shutter delay function which might be called "Drive Mode." If you set your camera on a 2 second delay (or whatever interval your camera will fire at), you can depress the shutter, take your hands off the camera, and it will fire 2 seconds later. No camera shake!

Imagine how helpful using the delay and a tripod will be if you're balancing a cranky baby baby on your hip!

Also, most of us don't have professional photo set-ups. You might need to do a little cheating. The Drive Mode delay setting is also helpful if you need a few seconds to jump in and hold up a handbag strap, or prop an item up from behind with your hand. Set the delay for 10 seconds, and you'll have plenty of time to position yourself out of the frame, and position the item for shooting.

(While you're looking in your manual for the Drive Mode (delay) setting, be sure to check out the "White Balance" setting. If your camera allows you to set the "White Balance," you can tell your camera what "white" is under the lighting you're using--or not using!--and gives your camera the a starting point to adjust the other colors in the photos. Give it a try and see if it helps!)