Nine Tips For Absolute Newbie Photographers
Words by Scott Bourne - A Platypod Pro
Edited by Eryka Bagwell
Every day, lots of people get their first camera. Every day lots of people who own a camera decide they want to get serious about producing higher quality photos. But where to start?
If you're a new photographer looking to improve your skills, it can be overwhelming. There are lots of technical terms and different types of equipment to learn about. It's easy to feel lost. But fear not! In this blog post, we'll share 9 basic tips to help you take better photos no matter who you are.
1. Get to know your camera
Before you start shooting, it's important to understand the basics of your camera. Take the time to read the manual and experiment with the different settings. Understanding how your camera works will allow you to make the most of it and capture the best images possible.
2. Learn about composition
Composition is the arrangement of visual elements in your photograph. It's the difference between a snapshot and a well-crafted image. Learn about the rule of thirds, leading lines and symmetry to create more dynamic and visually interesting images.
3. Shoot in natural light
Natural light is the most flattering light for photography. Avoid using the flash and instead, try shooting during the golden hour - the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset - for soft, warm light.
4. Experiment with different angles
Don't be afraid to get low or high and try different angles. Shooting from a different perspective can create a more unique and interesting image.
5. Edit your photos
Editing can take your photos from good to great. You don't need fancy software - even simple adjustments like adjusting exposure or cropping can make a big difference. Experiment with editing and find a style that works for you.
6. Focus on one subject
When you're starting out, it's easy to want to capture everything in one shot. However, this can lead to cluttered and unfocused images. Instead, focus on one subject and make it the center of attention.
7. Shoot in RAW
RAW is a file format that contains all of the data from your camera's sensor. Shooting in RAW will give you more flexibility when it comes to editing and allow you to make more significant adjustments to your images.
8. Keep it simple
Sometimes, less is more. Avoid cluttered backgrounds and focus on simple, clean compositions. This will help your subject stand out and create a more impactful image.
9. Practice, practice, practice
The more you practice, the better you'll become. Take your camera with you everywhere and don't be afraid to experiment. Photography is a never-ending learning process, and the more you shoot, the more you'll improve.
In conclusion, improving your photography skills is all about understanding the basics, experimenting, and finding your own style. Don't be afraid to make mistakes - that's all part of the learning process. With these tips, you're well on your way to becoming a better photographer.
If you have a final image and BTS that you’d like to share and potentially be featured on our blog (newsletter or social media pages), please contact us via service@platypod.com.
