Gordon Wiltsie is a Montana-based photographer who has traveled the world and shot for all sorts of national and international publications, including National Geographic. This father of two took many of the photos that appear in my book, Parent's Guide to Hiking & Camping, and let me tell you, his work is just wonderful.

Let your kids have fun

Don't pose. Make the camera as invisible as possible. Instead of having people line up, try to capture your friends and family being natural and having a good time. Try to take"storytelling" photos, where the kids are in the foreground and there's also an interesting background. Look for a nice scene, then put yourself into a position to catch both the scene and your child. Pay attention. Kids are always moving and someone always has his or her eyes closed. The biggest challenge of all is really watching. You have to watch through the camera and be ready the instant everybody's in the right position. Pay attention to lighting. The prettiest photos are usually taken shortly after the sun comes up and shortly before it sets — which is why campfire shots are great too. Take lots of pictures. Most people shoot far too few. When your kids are bouncing around, take five or six shots instead of one — you're likely to get at least one great shot. If cost is an issue, think: It's cheaper to take lots of pictures than it is to repeat your vacation and try again. . . .