Help… I love photography but don’t know where to start!
Have you always dreamt of capturing stunning shots but don’t know where to start? Even deciding which type of camera to buy can feel daunting!
And once you have your camera in your hand, as a beginner, you may feel overwhelmed by all the settings and accessories.
Don’t let your misgivings put you off. Check out our photography tips for beginners to start you off on your new hobby. Soon you’ll be using your camera with confidence to produce unique and beautiful shots.
1. Research camera types
The first thing you’ll have to do as a budding photographer is to find a good camera to start your photography hobby.
Your main options for stepping up from a phone or point-and-shoot (compact) camera are:
- Bridge cameras provide a “bridge” between point-and-shoot cameras and more complex DSLRs (digital single-lens reflex cameras). One of their main features is a single integrated lens, which many amateur photographers find simple to use. Examples of Bridge cameras are Canon powershot, Sony Cyber shot and Panasonic Lumix.
- DSLRs are a step up from a bridge camera. When light enters the camera, you can see your subject on the screen at the back, thanks to the light being reflected from a mirror inside. As you take a photo, the mirror swings out of the way, so the light hits the digital image sensor, and the picture is saved on the camera’s SD card.
- As the name suggests, mirrorless cameras don’t contain a mirror like DSLRs. Instead, light travels to the image sensor directly. This enables them to be lighter and more compact than DSLRs, but they give great results too. Mirrorless cameras are becoming the must have’s.
2. Get familiar with the basics
As you’re getting to know your camera, having an understanding of the basic terminology and settings will help you master it. For example:
- Aperture – the opening that controls how much light enters your camera
- Shutter speed – exactly as it says, the speed at which the shutter closes, allowing crisp or photos that show movement.
- ISO – the sensitivity to the light, the setting that assists in brightening or darkening your photos
Once you’ve mastered these concepts, know that the “exposure triangle” is made up of these three elements in the right balance to create the best picture.
3. Take beginner camera lessons
One of the best ways to get to know your camera and learn the skills to capture great photos is to take photography lessons.
Being guided by an expert on the basics of photography and how your camera works is probably one of the most efficient and enjoyable ways to progress in your photography journey.
Search out a course near you that allows you to explore your creativity with the support of an expert. They’ll also explain the photography rules to you (such as the rule of thirds), enabling you to produce beautifully composed photos.
An added bonus will be connecting with like-minded people and sharing your own tips and work.
4. Shoot what you love!
When you’re working with a subject you love, photography becomes super easy! Try experimenting with different genres until you hit on one that resonates with you.
You could try landscapes, portraits of people, pets and animals and flower photography. Have fun exploring your camera and its settings while capturing any of these fascinating subjects.
Try shooting them in different light conditions or times of day — doing so is an engaging way to help you understand the mechanics of your camera.
And don’t be afraid of mistakes — with practice, you’ll start producing beautiful pictures that capture everything you love about your subject.
Let us help you achieve your photography dreams
When you start photography as a hobby, you have a friend for life. It’s a pastime that can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors and can take up as much or as little time as you have available.
Get inspired by booking beginners’ photography lessons with Cherish Artz. With our two to three hour courses limited to only three participants, know that you will receive hands-on help from the experts.
The result? A new confidence in using your camera and an enthusiasm for taking photos of the things — and people — you love. Contact us to know more about how Cheryl can help you achieve your photography dreams.
