Beginners Photography

Tips for Beginner Photographers

Welcome to the wonderful world of photography! If you just picked up your first camera, or are thinking about getting a camera, we hope these tips can set you on the right path.

Don’t buy the most expensive gear right away. If you are just starting out, consider buying an entry level camera. Today’s entry level cameras deliver high-quality photos while allowing beginners to learn simple photographic techniques and camera functions. You will know when it’s time to upgrade to a more robust camera. The same goes for lenses. Consider buying a kit that comes with a lens to start - it will satisfy most of your photographic needs. For more information about beginner cameras and lenses, read What is the Best Camera for Beginners? and Purchasing Your Next Lens.

Keep your camera with you at all times. You never know when a great photo opportunity presents itself. Being prepared is half the battle. If you don’t have your camera with you, take notes of subjects or scenes that interest you and return to them later.

Experiment with your camera’s settings and functions. Playing around with your camera’s shutter speed, exposure, flash, and shooting modes will take your photography to the next level. While automatic shooting modes are still impressive with today’s cameras, they often fail to capture the photographer’s artistic vision. Try shooting the same subject with different effects to understand how your camera settings work. You should also keep the owner’s manual handy. Remember, if you’re shooting with a digital camera, the cost of errors is free so don’t be afraid of “messing up.”

Buy a tripod. Tripods keep your camera completely steady by eliminating hand shake and vibration. Using a tripod will improve the quality of your images dramatically. Read Tripod Buying Guide to learn more about this all-important camera accessory.

Enjoy the learning process. It’s easy to get frustrated with things that you’re not good at. Push through, try to take photos every day, and be inspired by the world around you. You will never run out of different subjects and scenes to photograph. Keep shooting and you will get better in no time.

Read Explora’s Photography Tips section. It’s very helpful (and free!)