With the 100th anniversary of the national parks, this is a great time to visit some of the amazing landscapes found in the American West. Between us, we’ve spent time and photographed in every national park in the system and we can definitively say that few landscapes — in the national parks and beyond — are as awe-inspiring as those found in our western states. And who can resist taking lots of pictures?

Here are some pointers to help you bring back images you’ll be proud to share.