What does being Canadian mean to you?

For July's photo contest, we want you to show us what being Canadian means to you for a chance to win a great prize courtesy of CBC Connect with Mark Kelley.

With more than 34 million people spanning 10 provinces and three territories, there are sure to be a lot of ideas. Are Canadians best defined by a love of hockey and Timbits, a polite and peaceful disposition, or a commitment to multicultural diversity?  

It could be an image of Canadian geese in flight, a flag waving in the wind, or a portrait of someone you know who most embodies the Canadian spirit. Now is your chance to get creative and show us what being Canadian means to you.

Send us your images. Upload them here or to our CBC Your Voice Flickr Pool, tagged with the words "July photo contest" or email them to: yournews@cbc.ca with the words "July photo contest" in the subject line.

Before you get snapping, CBC News photo editor extraordinaire Timothy Neesam has these helpful hints on getting the perfect shot.

Tim, who has worked as a producer and/or director on a wide range of arts and entertainment projects for CBC Radio, CBC Radio 3 and CBC.ca, shares these insightful tips:

1. Understand the Rule of Thirds

Painters have been using the Rule of Thirds for centuries, and it works just as well for photographers. Your images will appear balanced and dynamic if you place your subject at least one-third the distance from one of the edges of your frame.

2. Focus

A friend of mine took a picture of her bike, but included in the shot were 10 other bikes behind hers. If she had moved to the left, she would have excluded the other bikes, and hers would have appeared outstanding. Focus isn't just about sharp or fuzzy pictures. Decide what it is you're really taking a photo of, and you'll make sure the person looking at your picture will too.

3. Think with your feet

Look at what's in the frame and ask yourself, if I move to the left or right, will my picture improve? How about moving back or forth? What happens if I shoot the same scene from above or below the subject? Take full advantage of the amount of space you have to work with. Filling the frame helps your audience appreciate your image.

4. Remember, it's all about the light

Photographers are always talking about light, whether it's the golden hour around sunrise and sunset, the light that provides depth by creating shadows, or that annoying light that makes people in your shot squint badly. Think about where your light is coming from and use it to your advantage. Putting light to the left or right of your subject, for example, can do wonders for your picture.

5. Be in the moment

Whether you're shooting landscapes, sports or someone you've met, photography allows you to capture the spirit of a moment that's important to you. Take your time when you're making your photograph. Decide what it is you're really shooting, and compose your image carefully. Make it a moment that lasts.

As always, any photo you submit to us may be published as our Photo of the Day.

On July 26, we'll feature the five best photos we receive and give you a chance to vote on your favourites. The winner will be announced July 30, so be sure to check back!   

Lucky winners will receive a copy of With Glowing Hearts:
The Official Commemorative Book of the XXI Olympic Winter Games and the X Paralympic Winter Games courtesy of CBC's Connect with Mark Kelley.

Here's how you can get involved:

• Post comments below.
• Upload photos to our gallery.
• Email photos or comments to yournews@cbc.ca with the words "July photo contest" in the subject line.