One of the great things about photography is how easy it is to pick up and experiment with. For those who have achieved a beginner’s level of experience and have already gotten comfortable with their cameras, a world of possibility awaits. Even though it’s easy to get started with photography, it takes a lifetime to master. That challenge should excite you, even those who are just dabbling with the craft and don’t have any real professional ambition attached to the enterprise. If you have read the beginner’s guide then you will benefit with these three recommended photography tips from a pro:
Shutterstock: AntonSokolov
1. Do a shoot for inspiration.
You never know what will come out of a shoot, and it’s important to schedule them just to be able to find the value later on. Could it serve as a blog post? A technique to offer? Some other insights? Capturing nice photographs of birds can be a valuable pursuit in its own right, and sharing the pictures with others might bring you joy or even some spending money. But what really resonates for photographers is the experience of being out there, and both showing it off and talking about it afterward. A passion for photography cannot be faked or altered; your passion will show in your work and how you describe the shots.
Photographers have a lot in common with documentary filmmakers and reporters. They can change the way you see the world, through a photo or another form of storytelling. Invest yourself personally in hopes of discovering something new. If you do, your work will improve, and you will find beauty with ease.
2. Keep it simple.
Sometimes, you’ll need a more advanced technique, but for the most part you’re best off doing what’s natural and simple. A simple flash from a distinct angle can create the greatest of photos. You want your audience yo imagine that perspective you achieved, and to imagine themselves there holding their attention from that vantage point. It’s a brief moment in time, captured. If you overthink it, you’ll lose it. You can touch up the picture later on, if need be, but at the time you have to move quickly to make sure you get the shot. So the best advice is to keep calm and be confident that you can snap the photo you want at the right time.
Travel photography and landscape photography are particularly of interest, when the right light sets in. People can be their biggest obstacle at times. Don’t miss the opportunity when it presents itself.
3. Don’t stop training.
The best resources are other photographers that you have access to in person, on online message boards, and via social media. Before you dive in, check out the tutorials on a program and how it can be used best to raise the quality of your work. Many programs can be overwhelming with information and ideas, so you should try to stick to what you really need to know, and what fits within your preferred workflow. As you find your groove, and come into your own, you’ll want to maintain your unique outlook. Don’t lose it while trying to improve. Seek out like-minded individuals who can lend their knowledge to your benefit, or even accompany you on a shoot.
As you expand your knowledge, you will find new things you’re willing to test out and try. Or, you can more simply refresh your memory about the basics. The discussion around photography is useful in its own right. Seek out what is most meaningful to you, and keep at it.
Some of the insights for this article were drawn from this Skillfeed course:
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