Getting your start in photography can be a bit of a harrowing experience.
That's because there's so much to learn about photography - everything from camera settings to composition to how to focus. And that's just the start.
Given that there's a lot to learn, here's a quick list of a few photography tips for beginners that will get you going on the right foot.
Make a Shot List
One of the best ways to improve your photography skills is to take a lot of photos.
But rather than just pointing and shooting at random objects, make your endeavor to take better photos a little more meaningful. You can do that by generating a shot list.
By making a list of the subjects you want to photograph, you give yourself milestones to achieve.
Even better, after you've been at this photography thing for awhile, you can revisit your shot list and then compare the results you got when you first started with those you got after you've learned a few skills!
Learn More:
- How to Comfortably Carry Your Photography Gear
- Get the Most Out of Your Camera Bag With These Essential Tips
Get Out of Auto
Shooting in full auto mode is fine when you're just starting out. It makes the process of camera settings vastly easier and allows you to concentrate on developing your compositional skills.
However, full auto can be a crutch because it removes all control over the exposure settings from you and gives it to the camera.
If you really want to see improvement in the photos that you take, strive to get out of full auto mode and into something a little more advanced.
This doesn't mean that you have to shoot in full manual mode, either (though, that's a great goal!).
Instead, try shooting in aperture priority mode, shutter priority mode, or program mode.
Each of these semi-automatic modes bridges the gap between full auto and full manual, and allow you to have much more control over what your camera does.
Upgrade Your Camera Strap
The worst part of a camera is the flimsy camera strap that comes with it.
Not only are they terribly uncomfortable, but they aren't exactly the most secure means of transporting your camera, either.
That's why one of the first accessories you should buy is a new camera strap.
I use a Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo when I'm out shooting with my Sony a6300, and it's absolutely fantastic.
Not only is the MoneyMaker Solo beautiful with rich, full-grain leather, it's custom made from one piece of hide.
That makes this strap incredibly durable and comfortable as well.
In fact, I can carry my camera with the Solo for hours and hours without feeling even the slightest hint of fatigue.
That's thanks in large part to the big, contoured shoulder strap that helps distribute the weight of my gear over a larger area.
Even when I have the added weight of an additional lens in a Holdfast Lens Pouch, the MoneyMaker Solo keeps me feeling comfortable.
But this thing isn't just about beauty and comfort.
From a safety standpoint, it's hard to beat the MoneyMaker Solo.
The included stabilizer strap helps lock the main strap in place, that way there's no slippage of the shoulder pad.
There's also a Belt Anchor that attaches to your belt to keep your camera in the same position at your side whether you're standing or kneeling or points in between.
The Belt Anchor simply slides onto your belt and secures your camera in place.
There's no factory camera strap that can do that!
Trust me - though a camera strap might not seem like a big deal, it is. If you want the best, invest in a Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo!
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Experiment - A Lot
Some of the best photography advice I ever got was encouragement from a photography teacher years ago who told me to keep my eyes open, have my camera at all times, and experiment with my photography.
I loved landscapes back then (and still do), but he made me realize that landscapes aren't the only thing that I could photograph and photograph well. I'd like to pass that same encouragement on to you.
No matter what your first love in photography might be - macro, cityscapes, portraits, and so on - keep an open mind and always be willing to try new things.
Putting your skills to good use in other photography applications will only help you learn and grow as a photographer!
So, commit yourself to experimentation, make a shot like, get a better camera strap, and strive to get out of full auto. If you can do these things, great things await you in photography!