Tips and Tricks for Beginner Photographers
Photography is an enjoyable hobby, that people pursue for a number of reasons. It may be a career choice, a form of expression, or a way to document their life experiences. One thing that everyone who practices photography has in common, is where they started. While some people have an eye for photography, no one is blessed with the natural instinct to operate a camera. As with any skill, it is learned and requires practice. If you are unsure where to begin, keep reading to learn several tips and tricks that will put you ahead of most beginner photographers.
Use What You Have
Many new photographers feel the impulse to buy a fancy camera. You don’t need the latest and greatest equipment to be a great photographer. Far from it! In fact, a new camera may actually be a curse. All of the advanced features can leave you feeling overwhelmed, and make learning off-putting. An older camera that is still functional is all you need to learn the basics, and ramp up your motivation. It also means that should you decide photography isn’t your forte, you won’t have any financial regrets. My recommended beginner DSLR cameras are: Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D and the Nikon D3500 which range between $400-$500. A more professional body of a camera can range any where from $2,000-$5,000 and the lenses are even more expensive. Many cell phones will even work as you begin to figure out if the investment of a DLSR camera will be put to good use!
Buy a Camera Bag
Let us be the first of many to tell you not to throw your money at new things without good reason. One exception? A quality camera bag. Not only will a camera bag protect your equipment from getting bumped, nicked or scratched when it is not in use, but you won’t have to line your pockets with odds and ends like batteries and lens caps. Get a nice bag and keep all of your essentials in one convenient place. Keeping your camera on hand will be easier, and you will be ready for any photo op.
Start With the Automatic Setting
In many photography groups, there is a negative connotation associated with the use of the automatic setting. However, there is a difference between using the automatic setting versus relying on it. The automatic setting on a camera is a great starting point as you learn the basics. After you have mastered the automatic setting, you can move on to semi-automatic, manual, and any other settings featured on your camera. It may seem tedious to work your way to more difficult settings, but it is necessary framework.
Learn to Use a Reflector
Mastering the use of light is essential for a photographer. There are both natural and artificial light sources, and you will want to master both, but lets start simple. Instead of purchasing an expensive flash, buy an affordable reflector. Use it to learn how light spreads, what types of items absorb it and which ones bounce it back. Once you understand how light moves, you can use the reflector to manipulate it. The goal is to be able to turn the negatives of natural light, such as shadows, into positives. For example, the same light directly behind a subject that creates a silhouette, can be used to cast light onto their front or face for a portrait.
Get Creative
Ensuring that your new hobby remains enjoyable, is how you will stay motivated to keep on learning. Use Pinterest and make a board that inspires you, or compile content you would like to attempt to recreate. You might even collaborate with other artists or models, to bounce ideas around and make industry connections. Want to take things up a notch? Look for a photography internship, or a mentor, and assist on shoots. Getting your hands dirty is a great way to gain knowledge and real-world experience.
Make the Most of Criticism
Believe it or not, feedback is your best friend! Overcoming negative feedback or criticism can be difficult, but it is essential for growth. Take opinions with a grain of salt, and use them to better yourself. If have any plans to photograph paying clients in the future, understanding how to take advantage of and appropriately handle negative feedback is necessary. Think of any and every bit of feedback as an opportunity to learn. One day you will look back and realize, the negative feedback often prompted the most advancement.
They say nothing worth learning comes easy! With enough practice, you will quickly gain new skills using both advanced equipment and post-production programs. At Florafost Photography, we have twelve years of professional experience, and yet we never turn down the opportunity to learn. Not only does it benefit us personally, but our clients receive more and improved services. View our regularly updated gallery, or contact us to book a consultation.
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