Otago Daily Times photographer Gerard O'Brien shares his favourite photos of 2011.
Best jobs: When a mundane "seen-it-all-before" assignment comes good. Maybe it's a sudden change in the light or the expression of the subject. It's always fleeting but, if you're alert and get it in the can, it's very satisfying.
Worst jobs: Anything involving snow or extended periods exposed to horizontal rain. The annual Jaffa race comes a close second, simply because there is only one, repetitive, angle from which to shoot it.
Photo tip: On sunny days, shoot into the sun. Everyone's had their photo taken in the middle of summer, squinting desperately into the sun. Do your subjects a favour and get them to turn their backs to the sun and turn on your flash (most cameras have a "force flash" or "fill flash" setting).
If the sun is low in the sky, you might need to use your hand to cast a shadow on the lens to avoid lens flare. A dark background will help highlight the subjects. The resulting picture will be squint free, with attractive rim lighting around your subject.
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.