How do you take the perfect, memorable photo on vacation?

There is no shortage of photo opportunities when you’re away. But somehow you often end up with photos that later leave you . . . less than excited to have taken them.

Whether you’re using a digital camera or a smartphone, these basic pointers will help you maximize your chances of having more keepers when you get home.

1. Choose Moments Rather Than Clichés

Capturing moments is what makes photos come alive rather than the same generic clichéd photos everyone shoots. Like the ones where people pretend to be holding up the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Or pretend to straddle the equator.

Instead, pick moments.

Catching a moment requires you think about what the person is doing in the photograph and the situation itself. If someone is about to rappel down a huge cliff, photograph the emotion of the moment on her face.

Capture the essence of taking a bite of a delicious Italian pasta, by taking a close-up of your companion with a forkful of food over his plate. Capture the essence of strolling hand-in-hand down an exotic beach under the sunset.

Good photographers look for the “moment of truth” when documenting a scene. Posing isn’t necessary and sometimes it gets in the way of what’s going on.

2. Frame Your Photos As the Pros Do

Instead of placing the subject in the center, place the subject on the side because it allows you to capture the background scenery, which adds a dramatic effect to your photographs.

Also, try changing the position from where you take the photograph. Instead of taking it front on, try different angles. Maybe even get down on one knee to capture something slightly different about the photo.

3. Zoom In On Important Details

Don't take just the generic long distance shot of a famous landmark or attraction. Zoom in on the details. Your phone may not allow for this, but any decent camera will.

Zooming in allows you to see minor but significant details that you will miss in a full range shot. Things in the environment can cloud important details so pay attention.

4. Look Out For Golden Opportunities

Golden opportunities for photos always present themselves.

Perhaps you are at the top of a mountain and a gathering storm is approaching in the horizon. Capturing a photo like this would make your shot unique. Be on the lookout for any ways to make your photo different from the rest.

5. Use Flash When Necessary

Generally, you should not use flash indoors. The contrasting lights of an indoors shot don’t produce high quality images.

However, for outdoor photographs the flash can be quite useful, especially on sunny days, because the flash fills in the shadows and evens out harsh elements in the environment.

You don't need to take a class or spend thousands on a professional camera. Just follow these simple tips and your photos will improve and you can look forward to enjoying your pictures for years.