5 answers
Chancie
Student
Camdenton, Missouri
1
Question
Asked
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What is it that were truly wanting to learn that will help us with our journey of learning to achieve or desired goals in our degree. Mine in Digital Photography, but what goes deeper than that Where do I want to take this?
#Spring25
What are some other things you can do with photography to help a person in their day-to-day skills rather it be professional, business, or personal?
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5 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1334
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Chancie! First off, you’ve picked digital photography—that’s awesome. You’re not just learning to click a button on a camera, you’re learning how to capture stories, freeze moments in time, and bring emotions to life through your lens. But let’s dive a little deeper than that because, like any good photographer knows, there’s always more to see behind the frame.
When you ask, "What do we really want to learn?" the answer is likely a combination of technical skills, creative expression, and personal growth. You're not just mastering aperture and shutter speed (though those are key), you're also figuring out how to express your unique perspective. Photography is an art form, but it’s also a personal journey. So, when you ask, “Where do I want to take this?” think about the kind of photographer you want to become.
Do you want to specialize in portrait photography, capturing the essence of people? Or maybe you’re drawn to landscape photography, where the world itself becomes your canvas. The cool thing about photography is that there are endless directions to go—like choosing between being a documentary photographer, telling stories through the lens, or perhaps getting into commercial photography, where brands need your eye to showcase products in their best light.
But beyond all the technical stuff, what you’re really seeking is a way to connect with your subjects and your audience. It’s not just about "taking a picture," it’s about creating something that speaks to people, making them feel something when they see your work. So, the deeper thing you might be looking for isn’t just the how-to of photography, it’s about learning how to communicate your vision. The real magic of photography is when you get to a point where the camera almost feels like an extension of your own expression.
And guess what? There's no "one right path." You could be taking photography in a million directions—whether it's freelance, working with brands, creating fine art, or even exploring virtual and digital photography (hello, NFTs!). The key is to experiment and see what resonates most with you.
What you're really learning, deeper than the technical aspects of exposure and editing, is the ability to see the world differently. Photography teaches you to notice details that others might miss, to capture moments that tell a story, and to artfully share your perspective. You're not just taking pictures—you’re learning to create experiences and memories.
So where do you want to take this? Well, that’s up to you. Whether it’s capturing intimate family moments, traveling the world, or making an impact with powerful visual storytelling, the sky’s the limit. Your journey in digital photography is about evolving, growing, and constantly finding new ways to express who you are through your work.
Keep experimenting, keep creating, and most importantly, keep having fun with it. And if you ever feel lost, remember that some of the best photographers didn’t always know exactly where they were going—they just followed their lens and let the journey unfold. 🎥📸
When you ask, "What do we really want to learn?" the answer is likely a combination of technical skills, creative expression, and personal growth. You're not just mastering aperture and shutter speed (though those are key), you're also figuring out how to express your unique perspective. Photography is an art form, but it’s also a personal journey. So, when you ask, “Where do I want to take this?” think about the kind of photographer you want to become.
Do you want to specialize in portrait photography, capturing the essence of people? Or maybe you’re drawn to landscape photography, where the world itself becomes your canvas. The cool thing about photography is that there are endless directions to go—like choosing between being a documentary photographer, telling stories through the lens, or perhaps getting into commercial photography, where brands need your eye to showcase products in their best light.
But beyond all the technical stuff, what you’re really seeking is a way to connect with your subjects and your audience. It’s not just about "taking a picture," it’s about creating something that speaks to people, making them feel something when they see your work. So, the deeper thing you might be looking for isn’t just the how-to of photography, it’s about learning how to communicate your vision. The real magic of photography is when you get to a point where the camera almost feels like an extension of your own expression.
And guess what? There's no "one right path." You could be taking photography in a million directions—whether it's freelance, working with brands, creating fine art, or even exploring virtual and digital photography (hello, NFTs!). The key is to experiment and see what resonates most with you.
What you're really learning, deeper than the technical aspects of exposure and editing, is the ability to see the world differently. Photography teaches you to notice details that others might miss, to capture moments that tell a story, and to artfully share your perspective. You're not just taking pictures—you’re learning to create experiences and memories.
So where do you want to take this? Well, that’s up to you. Whether it’s capturing intimate family moments, traveling the world, or making an impact with powerful visual storytelling, the sky’s the limit. Your journey in digital photography is about evolving, growing, and constantly finding new ways to express who you are through your work.
Keep experimenting, keep creating, and most importantly, keep having fun with it. And if you ever feel lost, remember that some of the best photographers didn’t always know exactly where they were going—they just followed their lens and let the journey unfold. 🎥📸
David Wuerth
Freelance Photojournalist/ Sports Photographer
117
Answers
Nampa, Idaho
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Chancie,
I am going to assume you are in high school. And, I am going to assume you are considering photography as a profession.
You will need a camera that allows interchangeable lenses and you will have to know how to use that camera to create good photographs. If you do pursue art(photography) it will have to be a driving passion in your life.
I suggest you attend college and receive a degree. That will expend your horizons and show you new worlds and new experiences. Also, having a degree will allow you to make a living while you establish your photography career.
While in high school, you can explore the different genres of photography. That can help you decide on what you would like to photograph. The internet is good as is your school or local library.
You will need reasonable math skills and art is a good course of study. You will need very good communication skills.
I believe curiosity is a must for anyone in the arts. Perseverance is a necessity.
Best of luck!
I am going to assume you are in high school. And, I am going to assume you are considering photography as a profession.
You will need a camera that allows interchangeable lenses and you will have to know how to use that camera to create good photographs. If you do pursue art(photography) it will have to be a driving passion in your life.
I suggest you attend college and receive a degree. That will expend your horizons and show you new worlds and new experiences. Also, having a degree will allow you to make a living while you establish your photography career.
While in high school, you can explore the different genres of photography. That can help you decide on what you would like to photograph. The internet is good as is your school or local library.
You will need reasonable math skills and art is a good course of study. You will need very good communication skills.
I believe curiosity is a must for anyone in the arts. Perseverance is a necessity.
Best of luck!
Nik Korba
Writer
20
Answers
New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Updated
Nik’s Answer
I love your question. I would say true learning -- deep learning that goes beyond the rule of thirds and f-stops -- comes from learning yourself. Where do you excel. And where do you fall short. Spend a little bit of time each day thinking about where your journey as a photographer -- or as a person -- has taken you. Ask yourself, what did I feel today. Then, what was the thinking that made me feel that way. Then, what do I believe that is leading me to think that way. You'll discover where you are strong, which can point you to a deeper calling, and where you are weak, which can help you to know where you need to grow.
Michael Howard
Creative Director
16
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hello Chancie,
I’ve been doing photography and videography since 2009. Right now, I’m building my own production company focused on videography, but I also handle photography for the City of Los Angeles Rec and Parks. I also film NBA athletes and trainers, which sometimes requires travel and coming up with content ideas on the spot when things change on location.
I didn’t go to college for photography or videography—I just have years of experience and a love for the craft. Having a degree is great because it gives you flexibility to pivot into different industries to build income, which ultimately helps support your photography journey. But in today’s world, technology is evolving so fast that pro-level cameras are becoming more affordable, and software tools can now replicate vintage aesthetics without needing to invest in delicate old-school cameras.
I say all this to emphasize that photography is a creative journey, and you are in control of where you take it. Here are some things to think about as you map out your path:
1. Find What You Love to Shoot
Think about what excites you and how you can capture it. I love sports, especially basketball. I played in high school, worked in sports video game marketing for 15 years, and developed an eye for what fans love to see in visuals. Identify five industries where you could see yourself working, whether it’s sports, entertainment, weddings, product photography, corporate headshots, graduations, or events.
2. Gain Professional Experience
Where can you work to build real-world experience? Taking a gig—like shooting BTS for a record label’s music videos—will teach you how to work with clients, meet deadlines, and navigate creative differences. You’ll quickly learn to put emotions aside and stay professional, even when you completely disagree with a client’s vision. Trust me, this WILL happen, but adapting to different personalities is part of the job.
3. Freelance vs. Building a Production Company or Working Full-Time
Do you want to freelance, build your own production company, or work full-time for a company? Each path has pros and cons:
- Freelancing gives you creative freedom, but it takes years of networking and building a client base to make it sustainable.
- Starting a production company is similar to freelancing but requires investing in gear, marketing, and building a team over time.
- Working full-time for a company (like a fashion brand, talent agency, or corporate media team) offers stability, consistent income, and industry connections.
There’s no right or wrong path—it depends on what fits your goals and lifestyle best.
4. Use YouTube & Social Media to Learn & Showcase Your Work
YouTube can teach you a lot, but it can also be a platform to build your personal brand. Many creatives are documenting their journeys—whether it’s street photography, model shoots, or behind-the-scenes client work—showing how they get gigs, interact with clients, and refine their craft.
Even if you don’t want to be a YouTuber, Instagram and TikTok are great places to showcase your portfolio and network. The industry is shifting, and people are landing gigs just from having a strong social presence.
5. Free Work Builds Experience FAST
Doing free work is one of the fastest ways to gain experience. If you approach 10 businesses every weekend and offer photography, by the end of the month, at least one will say yes. Position yourself as a student looking to build experience, and over time, you’ll start getting paid clients who love your work. I landed three clients this way, and two became paying customers.
Final Thought
Anyone can hold a camera and take a picture, but can they tell a story through photography and video? That’s the key. Mastering storytelling takes research, practice, and constant learning—so keep studying and applying new techniques as you go.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions.
Best,
Michael
I’ve been doing photography and videography since 2009. Right now, I’m building my own production company focused on videography, but I also handle photography for the City of Los Angeles Rec and Parks. I also film NBA athletes and trainers, which sometimes requires travel and coming up with content ideas on the spot when things change on location.
I didn’t go to college for photography or videography—I just have years of experience and a love for the craft. Having a degree is great because it gives you flexibility to pivot into different industries to build income, which ultimately helps support your photography journey. But in today’s world, technology is evolving so fast that pro-level cameras are becoming more affordable, and software tools can now replicate vintage aesthetics without needing to invest in delicate old-school cameras.
I say all this to emphasize that photography is a creative journey, and you are in control of where you take it. Here are some things to think about as you map out your path:
1. Find What You Love to Shoot
Think about what excites you and how you can capture it. I love sports, especially basketball. I played in high school, worked in sports video game marketing for 15 years, and developed an eye for what fans love to see in visuals. Identify five industries where you could see yourself working, whether it’s sports, entertainment, weddings, product photography, corporate headshots, graduations, or events.
2. Gain Professional Experience
Where can you work to build real-world experience? Taking a gig—like shooting BTS for a record label’s music videos—will teach you how to work with clients, meet deadlines, and navigate creative differences. You’ll quickly learn to put emotions aside and stay professional, even when you completely disagree with a client’s vision. Trust me, this WILL happen, but adapting to different personalities is part of the job.
3. Freelance vs. Building a Production Company or Working Full-Time
Do you want to freelance, build your own production company, or work full-time for a company? Each path has pros and cons:
- Freelancing gives you creative freedom, but it takes years of networking and building a client base to make it sustainable.
- Starting a production company is similar to freelancing but requires investing in gear, marketing, and building a team over time.
- Working full-time for a company (like a fashion brand, talent agency, or corporate media team) offers stability, consistent income, and industry connections.
There’s no right or wrong path—it depends on what fits your goals and lifestyle best.
4. Use YouTube & Social Media to Learn & Showcase Your Work
YouTube can teach you a lot, but it can also be a platform to build your personal brand. Many creatives are documenting their journeys—whether it’s street photography, model shoots, or behind-the-scenes client work—showing how they get gigs, interact with clients, and refine their craft.
Even if you don’t want to be a YouTuber, Instagram and TikTok are great places to showcase your portfolio and network. The industry is shifting, and people are landing gigs just from having a strong social presence.
5. Free Work Builds Experience FAST
Doing free work is one of the fastest ways to gain experience. If you approach 10 businesses every weekend and offer photography, by the end of the month, at least one will say yes. Position yourself as a student looking to build experience, and over time, you’ll start getting paid clients who love your work. I landed three clients this way, and two became paying customers.
Final Thought
Anyone can hold a camera and take a picture, but can they tell a story through photography and video? That’s the key. Mastering storytelling takes research, practice, and constant learning—so keep studying and applying new techniques as you go.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions.
Best,
Michael
Gary Bachelor
Photographer
1
Answer
Sebastopol, California
Updated
Gary’s Answer
Photography has changed dramatically since I started. From a technical standpoint - it's important to know the functioning as well as the art of using the tools you have. Functions in cameras, cell phones and computer software is staggering. If you are shooting a photo - you no longer need to worry about the foreground or background - they can be removed or modified. Focus on the subject of interest. If you are directing a model or covering an event - take charge of your environment. Don't be shy. With that said, plan ahead on what you want to achieve.
To your question:
Understand your environment
Plan ahead
Take charge
You will make many mistakes but that is an essential part of your education.
Good luck
Gary Bachelor
gwb-photography.com
@gwb_photography
To your question:
Understand your environment
Plan ahead
Take charge
You will make many mistakes but that is an essential part of your education.
Good luck
Gary Bachelor
gwb-photography.com
@gwb_photography