- November 20 2018
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Image Credit: Poike via iStock
It's an age-old question: "How do I get better at photography?"
Believe it or not, it's a much simpler answer than you might think.
When it comes down to it, learning how to get better at photography comes down to a few simple principles.
Below, I've outlined a few beginner photography tips that will help you learn new photography tricks, acquire the knowledge you need to compose better shots, and become a more confident shooter, too.
Let's get started!
Focus on Education
Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash
Learning how to become a better photographer obviously requires that you spend time behind the lens taking a lot of photos (more on that in a bit...).
But randomly taking a lot of photos won't do you much good if you don't also learn how to take photos in the first place.
That's why focusing on educating yourself about the ins and outs of photography is so important.
Now, I'm not saying that you need to rush over to the local university and sign up for every photography class they offer.
Image Credit: dusanpetkovic via iStock
Instead, simply spending 10-15 minutes each day reading articles like this, exploring photography tutorials, and watching YouTube videos will help you gain the skills you need to improve.
That's what's so great about learning photography - there are thousands of free resources online that offer top-notch advice for beginner photographers.
Better still, as you advance in your knowledge and your skills grow, you can still find thousands of online resources that cater to more advanced photographers.
All it takes is a commitment to learn something new each day, and you'll be surprised at how quickly you become a better photographer.
Learn More:
- 12 Mistakes Beginner Photographer Make and How to Fix Them FAST
- Beginner Photography Tip: Advanced Controls That Will Take Your Photos to the Next Level
Always Have Your Camera With You
The best thing you can do to become a better photographer is to simply have your camera with you at all times.
After all, the more photos you take, the more practice you get composing shots, learning camera settings, and so forth.
But it's not like you can carry your DSLR or mirrorless camera around in the office all day long...
That means you need to make it easier to grab your camera and go, whether that's taking it out on your lunch break or heading off for a weekend photography getaway.
One way that you can make it easier to have your camera at-the-ready at all times is to invest in a camera strap that offers comfort, convenience, and durability.
And while some people will say you need to spend a ton of money on a camera strap in order to get those features, I'm here to tell you that you don't!
In fact, I bought the HiiGuy camera strap shown above for less than $25, and it was a great investment.
For starters, the strap is incredibly comfortable with a big, cushy shoulder pad that distributes the weight of my camera over a large area.
When you're trying to go out and shoot more often, having that comfortable carrying experience will only encourage you to grab your camera and go shoot more often.
This strap also has ingenious features that make the process of taking photos easier...
There's a handy zippered pocket on the shoulder strap for storing extra batteries or memory cards.
The strap is also supremely adjustable, so whether you're a big, tall guy like over 6 feet tall or you're a little shorter in stature, you can adjust the camera strap such that your camera is exactly where you want it next to your body.
On top of all that, the HiiGuy camera strap utilizes high-performance materials that make carrying your camera a safer experience.
That's thanks to the grippy underside of the shoulder pad that keeps it in place on your shoulder and the durable metal hardware that safely and securely attaches the strap to your camera.
Even better, the HiiGuy camera strap comes with an eBook of photography tips, a microfiber cloth, an SD card case, and an industry-leading three-year warranty.
Having a good-quality camera strap is one of the most underrated things in photography. But if you're serious about making progress as a photographer, you need a camera strap that makes photography easier and more comfortable, and the HiiGuy camera strap will do just that!
Learn More:
Learn How to Use Your Gear
Image Credit: Enes Evren via iStock
It seems like a no-brainer that your ability to take a quality photo rests in part on your ability to effectively use your camera and other gear.
Yet I know the first thing I do when I get a new camera or lens is immediately take it out to shoot.
When you're a beginner, you need to dial back your eagerness to start shooting and spend time actually learning how to use your gear.
I know that reading your camera's owner's manual isn't exactly a fun exercise, but trust me - the more you know about your camera, lenses, tripod, and other equipment, the more effectively you will be able to use it to capture good photos!
Change Things Up
Image Credit: svetikd via iStock
I love landscape photography, so the vast majority of my photos are of landscapes.
But if I don't challenge myself from time to time and take portraits or shots of cityscapes and other subjects, I get into a creative rut.
When you're just starting out, there's nothing wrong with heavily concentrating on your favorite kind of photography.
But once you have your footing, try expanding your horizons. The challenge will help you apply what you've learned to completely different situations, build confidence, and hone your skills that much more.
And, like I said earlier, there are so many different articles, tutorials, and videos out there to help you continue to develop as a photographer, so commit yourself to learning, to always having your camera with you, to learning how to use your gear, and challenging yourself to try new things. If you can do that, you'll be well on your way to becoming a better photographer!
Learn More:
- The Exposure Triangle Explained in Plain English
- A Beginner's Guide to Understanding the Sunny 16 Rule