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Tips for top troving

Some of you have asked what makes a top notch discovery on Trover. Is it the quality of the photo? Is it the accompanying information? Or is it simply the discovery itself?

Our scientific answer: Yes. All three of these comprise the trifecta of a great discovery. Find something cool, capture it in a stunning photo and provide some helpful tips for those who want to seek it out. Eureka! You've formulated a great discovery.

Let's break it down:

The discovery

This is probably the most important element. Being able to find the interesting and unusual things in this world takes a keen sense of curiosity, and Trovers have that gift. You might see the street art that others gloss by, or find the restaurant dish that truly stands out. You might know which boutique carries the hottest handbags, know the best trails to hike, roads to ride and hills to climb. You might be able to see details around you that are part of a larger story. These are the foundations of great discoveries.

The photo

Top trovers take their discovery photos very seriously. Here are some of their photography tips:

1. Experiment with different angles and lighting to ensure that your photo comes out clear as a bell. People will be using your discoveries to help them explore an area. Always ask yourself if your photo represents the specific thing you want others to see. Does the photo inspire others to learn more about your discovery? Does it show your discovery in the best light?
2. Try a photo-editing app. Camera+, Instagram and Photoshop Express make it a breeze to filter, crop and straighten your photos. Diptic lets you creatively mash photos together. There are many other great photo apps out there, so take advantage of them and let your inner photographer loose!
3. Consider uploading more than one discovery from a new find. Uncover a great art gallery? Upload a photo of the gallery along with your favorite piece. Try a new restaurant? Post a few discoveries that define your experience, such as the front of the building, the menu, a shot of your entree or the accompanying cocktails. It will help your fellow explorers really know what to look for when they visit. They'll thank you for it!
4. If you're in a hurry or don't want to be rude about composing a discovery while you're with others, don't worry, you can take a quick snapshot and upload it later. We can read the location and time stamp from the photo. But we're not mind readers, so be sure that the location services setting is turned ON for your mobile camera.

The description

Remember, you're a trailblazer creating a map for others to follow. A photo says a thousand words -- but it doesn't convey the details of that killer happy-hour deal. Leave tips on your discoveries to make life a little easier and more exciting for your fellow explorers. Reveal your unique perspective. Is there a story behind the discovery? People will be more inspired to visit if it feels like a friend has given them the inside scoop.

Have additional tips for making discoveries great? Please send them to feedback@trover.com.