How to become a better photographer
- get a decent digital SLR body
- get a “fast” 50 mm lens something with an aperture of f 1.8
- get a decent flash with an off-camera sync cord
- use and learn Adobe Photoshop if not the full version, then Photoshop Elements
- shoot both camera and flash on manual
- open pictures in photoshop study pictures at 100% for focus accuracy
- study your pictures metadata when your picture doesn’t work
- visit the myriad online photography websites like strobist.com, cambrideincolour.com, digitalphotographyschool.com, bookmark them
- a great tip from good friend Rigo, find a photo you love and try to emulate it whether it’s a pose in a portrait or the lighting. Imitation is the highest form of flattery?
- get to know a professional mentor
- enter photography contests
- invest in good professional level equipment especially lenses
- study visual publications like National Geographic, Condé Nast Traveller
- keep a notebook of clippings of your favorite pictures
- if you’re shooting digital, learn the ins and outs of your computer’s operating system
- pay attention to lighting in the natural world
- take photography seminars and classes
- have your camera with you at all times
- take pictures daily
- be humble about your abilities
- be willing to share what you know without bragging
Tags: digital, digital photography, slr
October 18th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
Great tips Peter!
One tip that I’d like to pass on is this: Find a photo that you absolutely love and try to emulate the photo. Whether it be lighting a model indoors or finding the perfect light outside, taking your time and experimenting with light is a great boost in the right direction. For me trial and error is a great learning tool.
October 19th, 2008 at 10:18 am
Thanks Rigo! That is a great tip. I’ve added it to the list. I’m bumping it up in the order of course.
Trial and error is infinitely easier with digital because of the instant feedback.