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Some of the best views can be had through the windows of tall buildings or tourist attractions such as the London Eye. The trouble is our cameras often end up taking photos of the window itself, rather than the view beyond. Luckily, it's easy to take great-looking photos through windows that almost look as if you were standing outside.

If you can actually stand outside, or even just poke your lens through a gap in an open window, then do so. A photograph taken outdoors will always look better than one taken through glass.

If you do have to photograph through a window, however, find a clean portion and press your lens right up against the surface of the glass. This will minimise the chance of photographing the window itself, while the end section of your lens barrel should protect your actual lens from scratches. If you have to tilt your camera for the best composition, shield any gaps between it and the window's surface with your hands or an item of clothing to avoid reflections.

The next trick is to set your lens manually to focus at infinity, which is usually indicated by a figure 8 on its side. This will tell your camera to focus on the view and not the window itself, but remember to put it back to autofocus afterwards. Finally, switch off the flash, as it will just cause unwanted reflections on the window's surface.

	1 Hold your camera against the glass for great photos through windows.