11 answers
Yansiel
Student
Hanover, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
847 views
How do other people get so good at photography?
How do other people get so good at photography? I want to learn how take beautiful photos and I want to be a photographer but I have no idea where to start and how I can improve
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11 answers
Yenny Salinas
Executive Concierge
3
Answers
Naucalpan, State of Mexico, Mexico
Updated
Yenny’s Answer
Understanding the fundamentals is crucial, regardless of whether you're using a cell phone or a high-end camera. There's a wealth of excellent instructional videos available on YouTube. Begin by exploring topics like the 'exposure triangle' (ISO, shutter speed, and aperture) and the basic principles of composition (such as the rule of thirds, lines, contrast, framing, negative space, and more).
Another key aspect to focus on is observing how natural light interacts with various subjects like people, objects, animals, flowers, and so forth. Pay attention to elements like shadows and brightness, for instance. If you have a camera or cell phone, start snapping photos from diverse angles and keep practicing. Many cell phones even offer a manual mode that allows you to control the brightness of your image and set the third lines.
Above all, the most vital thing is to get started and keep practicing. If possible, consider enrolling in photography classes and seek guidance from seasoned professionals. Remember, every expert was once a beginner. So, don't hesitate to start your journey and keep learning. Your persistence and passion will surely lead you to success.
Another key aspect to focus on is observing how natural light interacts with various subjects like people, objects, animals, flowers, and so forth. Pay attention to elements like shadows and brightness, for instance. If you have a camera or cell phone, start snapping photos from diverse angles and keep practicing. Many cell phones even offer a manual mode that allows you to control the brightness of your image and set the third lines.
Above all, the most vital thing is to get started and keep practicing. If possible, consider enrolling in photography classes and seek guidance from seasoned professionals. Remember, every expert was once a beginner. So, don't hesitate to start your journey and keep learning. Your persistence and passion will surely lead you to success.
felix xia
3D artist
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
felix’s Answer
Kickstart your photography journey with the convenience of your smartphone camera.
- Begin by mastering the art of image composition. This isn't a skill that can be condensed into a few lines of text. Make use of online resources like Google to understand what composition entails. Learn how to distinguish your subject from its background and where to position the focal point.
- Get to grips with the science of light. Understand how it illuminates a surface and the surrounding areas. Observe the different effects when light strikes from above, from the camera's perspective, or from the side. Experiment with manipulating light sources, such as placing a thin sheet in front of a flashlight.
- Immerse yourself in the world of visual storytelling. Study how photojournalists capture a scene, the positioning of their subjects, the actions depicted in the frame, the aftermath of the event, and the context of the location. Pay close attention to the composition of these images.
- Seek out apps that emulate the functionality of a digital SLR, allowing you to manually control your smartphone camera. Familiarize yourself with terms like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Delve into the technicalities of why photographers might prioritize aperture over speed, or vice versa.
- Begin by mastering the art of image composition. This isn't a skill that can be condensed into a few lines of text. Make use of online resources like Google to understand what composition entails. Learn how to distinguish your subject from its background and where to position the focal point.
- Get to grips with the science of light. Understand how it illuminates a surface and the surrounding areas. Observe the different effects when light strikes from above, from the camera's perspective, or from the side. Experiment with manipulating light sources, such as placing a thin sheet in front of a flashlight.
- Immerse yourself in the world of visual storytelling. Study how photojournalists capture a scene, the positioning of their subjects, the actions depicted in the frame, the aftermath of the event, and the context of the location. Pay close attention to the composition of these images.
- Seek out apps that emulate the functionality of a digital SLR, allowing you to manually control your smartphone camera. Familiarize yourself with terms like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Delve into the technicalities of why photographers might prioritize aperture over speed, or vice versa.
LeTrey Langston
Internal Communications Manager
3
Answers
Macon, Georgia
Updated
LeTrey’s Answer
Photography is about telling stories. Being "good" at it means the stories you tell can be understood by others. Just like any profession, the more you practice, the more comfortable you get. Another aspect is feedback from other people you trust; friends and adults. As you take photos, ask others "What do you see?" If others can describe what you are photographing then you're on the right track. Sometimes they see things that you may not have seen. This is important in understanding how others see the world, and when things are the same and different. In the end, be comfortable with capturing what your eyes see, and how you're feeling, and your voice will shine. Good photography inspires people and makes them feel emotions; whether its a phone camera, or an expensive one. The photos and best stories are told with the camera you have with you!
I love your comments, LeTrey and I 100% agree! Btw, a long time ago I lived in Macon for awhile and worked at WMAZ which is actually where I got started in video production and photography.
Lawrence Richards
Jessica Negrete
Marketing and Partner Relationships
4
Answers
Ontario
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
There are two parts to photography, the technical aspect and the artistic aspect.
The technical aspect covers your tools, how to use them and when. You can take a class on how to use your camera, whether a class is offered at school or through the local community center. Or if you know anyone who knows anything about cameras it would be beneficial to talk with them and have them teach you whatever you can. You need to know when and how to adjust your ISO and aperture and other items.
The artistic aspect is a little more difficult because there is no right or wrong answer. What I think is great photography, you may not agree with and vice versa. Find photos that you think are great and analyze them. What makes them so great to you? Is it the lighting? The angle? The composition? Find a photographer you really admire and study their photos.
Put the knowledge you learn between those two directions and play with them. Pick a subject and adjust the settings and try to mimic the photos you love. Pay attention to the settings and how they change based off the adjustments. It takes practice and experimenting, and your work will grow as your knowledge grows.
Best of luck!
The technical aspect covers your tools, how to use them and when. You can take a class on how to use your camera, whether a class is offered at school or through the local community center. Or if you know anyone who knows anything about cameras it would be beneficial to talk with them and have them teach you whatever you can. You need to know when and how to adjust your ISO and aperture and other items.
The artistic aspect is a little more difficult because there is no right or wrong answer. What I think is great photography, you may not agree with and vice versa. Find photos that you think are great and analyze them. What makes them so great to you? Is it the lighting? The angle? The composition? Find a photographer you really admire and study their photos.
Put the knowledge you learn between those two directions and play with them. Pick a subject and adjust the settings and try to mimic the photos you love. Pay attention to the settings and how they change based off the adjustments. It takes practice and experimenting, and your work will grow as your knowledge grows.
Best of luck!
Susan Douglas
Coordinator
4
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Susan’s Answer
Hi Yansiel! Photography is a wonderful hobby and a rewarding career. It allows you to capture the beauty of the world, express your creativity, and share your story and vision with others.
IWhether you want to take photos for fun or for profit, I hope this helps you get started and achieve your goals.
Before you can take beautiful photos, you need to understand the basics of photography. These are the fundamental concepts and skills that every photographer should know and master. They include:
• Camera settings: How to adjust the aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and other settings to control the exposure, focus, and quality of your photos.
• Composition: How to arrange the elements in your frame to create a balanced, harmonious, and interesting image.
• Lighting: How to use natural and artificial light sources to enhance the mood, color, and contrast of your photos.
• Editing: How to use software tools to crop, resize, adjust, and enhance your photos.
These are the basic building blocks of photography, and you should learn them well. You can find many online tutorials, books, and courses that can teach you these topics in detail. You can also experiment with different settings, techniques, and styles to find what works best for you and your camera.
Resources and Activities to Learn More and Practice
Learning the basics of photography is not enough. You also need to practice your skills and learn from others. Here are some resources and activities that can help you learn more and practice your craft:
• Online communities: You can join online forums, groups, and platforms where you can share your photos, get feedback, ask questions, and learn from other photographers. Some examples are Reddit, Flickr, Instagram, and 500px.
• Online courses: You can enroll in online courses that can teach you more advanced topics, such as portrait photography, landscape photography, wildlife photography, and more. Some examples are Udemy, Skillshare, Coursera, and Lynda.
• Photography books and magazines: You can read photography books and magazines that can inspire you, teach you new techniques, and show you the work of famous photographers. Some examples are Digital Photography School, National Geographic, and The Photographer's Eye.
• Photography challenges and contests: You can participate in photography challenges and contests that can motivate you, challenge you, and reward you. Some examples are Photo Challenge, GuruShots, and ViewBug.
• Photography clubs and workshops: You can join photography clubs and workshops in your area where you can meet other photographers, learn from experts, and go on photo trips.
I hope you found this document helpful and informative. Best practice is to grab your camera and start taking photos!
IWhether you want to take photos for fun or for profit, I hope this helps you get started and achieve your goals.
Before you can take beautiful photos, you need to understand the basics of photography. These are the fundamental concepts and skills that every photographer should know and master. They include:
• Camera settings: How to adjust the aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and other settings to control the exposure, focus, and quality of your photos.
• Composition: How to arrange the elements in your frame to create a balanced, harmonious, and interesting image.
• Lighting: How to use natural and artificial light sources to enhance the mood, color, and contrast of your photos.
• Editing: How to use software tools to crop, resize, adjust, and enhance your photos.
These are the basic building blocks of photography, and you should learn them well. You can find many online tutorials, books, and courses that can teach you these topics in detail. You can also experiment with different settings, techniques, and styles to find what works best for you and your camera.
Resources and Activities to Learn More and Practice
Learning the basics of photography is not enough. You also need to practice your skills and learn from others. Here are some resources and activities that can help you learn more and practice your craft:
• Online communities: You can join online forums, groups, and platforms where you can share your photos, get feedback, ask questions, and learn from other photographers. Some examples are Reddit, Flickr, Instagram, and 500px.
• Online courses: You can enroll in online courses that can teach you more advanced topics, such as portrait photography, landscape photography, wildlife photography, and more. Some examples are Udemy, Skillshare, Coursera, and Lynda.
• Photography books and magazines: You can read photography books and magazines that can inspire you, teach you new techniques, and show you the work of famous photographers. Some examples are Digital Photography School, National Geographic, and The Photographer's Eye.
• Photography challenges and contests: You can participate in photography challenges and contests that can motivate you, challenge you, and reward you. Some examples are Photo Challenge, GuruShots, and ViewBug.
• Photography clubs and workshops: You can join photography clubs and workshops in your area where you can meet other photographers, learn from experts, and go on photo trips.
I hope you found this document helpful and informative. Best practice is to grab your camera and start taking photos!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6333
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Yansiel!
To excel in the realm of photography, it's essential to commit your time and energy to learning the art through consistent practice, acquiring knowledge, and gaining experience.
Photography is an artistic discipline that demands an in-depth grasp of many elements such as composition, lighting, exposure, and color theory. A practical method to enhance your skills is by snapping as many photos as you can. This not only aids in building your portfolio but also allows you to learn from your errors and try out various techniques.
Pursuing formal education can also be a priceless asset for budding photographers. Signing up for photography courses or workshops at local colleges, universities, or private schools can equip you with a robust understanding of the technical dimensions of photography as well as artistic interpretation. Moreover, online platforms like YouTube tutorials and photography websites offer free learning materials on a range of photography-related topics.
Connecting with other photographers and industry professionals can also pave the way for valuable learning opportunities. Participating in local photography groups or industry gatherings can offer chances to network with peers in the field and gain insights from their experiences. Additionally, working with established photographers can provide practical experience and a glimpse into the business aspects of photography.
Finally, keeping abreast of the latest trends and technologies in photography is vital for ongoing improvement. Regularly checking reputable photography blogs, magazines, and social media channels can help you stay updated on new methods, tools, and industry updates.
Resources:
National Geographic: Photography Tips & Techniques
The Art Institute of Chicago: Photography Department
International Center of Photography: Continuing Education Programs
The quality of some of the amateur astrophotos is stunning! You do not need a telescope a yard wide to gather light, just use a longer exposure or a more sensitive film!
May God bless you, Yansiel!
JC.
To excel in the realm of photography, it's essential to commit your time and energy to learning the art through consistent practice, acquiring knowledge, and gaining experience.
Photography is an artistic discipline that demands an in-depth grasp of many elements such as composition, lighting, exposure, and color theory. A practical method to enhance your skills is by snapping as many photos as you can. This not only aids in building your portfolio but also allows you to learn from your errors and try out various techniques.
Pursuing formal education can also be a priceless asset for budding photographers. Signing up for photography courses or workshops at local colleges, universities, or private schools can equip you with a robust understanding of the technical dimensions of photography as well as artistic interpretation. Moreover, online platforms like YouTube tutorials and photography websites offer free learning materials on a range of photography-related topics.
Connecting with other photographers and industry professionals can also pave the way for valuable learning opportunities. Participating in local photography groups or industry gatherings can offer chances to network with peers in the field and gain insights from their experiences. Additionally, working with established photographers can provide practical experience and a glimpse into the business aspects of photography.
Finally, keeping abreast of the latest trends and technologies in photography is vital for ongoing improvement. Regularly checking reputable photography blogs, magazines, and social media channels can help you stay updated on new methods, tools, and industry updates.
Resources:
National Geographic: Photography Tips & Techniques
The Art Institute of Chicago: Photography Department
International Center of Photography: Continuing Education Programs
The quality of some of the amateur astrophotos is stunning! You do not need a telescope a yard wide to gather light, just use a longer exposure or a more sensitive film!
May God bless you, Yansiel!
JC.
Lawrence Richards
Television Producer
12
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Lawrence’s Answer
What I've found is that while anyone can learn what a technically "good" photo looks like, you can't teach someone to have an "eye" for it. Photography is just like any art form. Some people are decent, some are terrible and some are amazing. Once you learn the basics of what technically makes a "good" photo, the only way to get better is to go out and do it and then do it again. And while you're out shooting, decide for yourself what objects or subject matter speaks to you. This way you can kinda identify with it which may help you use your photos to tell a story or get an emotion across to the viewer. You also need to learn how to edit your photo with Photoshop or Lightroom as that's truly where the "magic" happens!
Hope this helps even just a little. Good luck!!
Hope this helps even just a little. Good luck!!
Michael Slansky
Project Management
7
Answers
Winter Garden, Florida
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Learning to become a great photographer starts with learning the basics. These basics include learning to use your camera. You don't need lots of expensive equipment. I've seen great photographs taken on cell phones. Next you need to learn the basics of taking photographs: lighting, camera settings, etc. You can find lots of videos on this on Youtube. The next step would be to practice. Takes pictures of anything that interests you. Don't be afraid to fail: experiment with different techniques. Lastly, study some other photographers: Ansel Adams, Annie Leibovitz, Dorothea Lange, to name a few.
Karina Ross
Graphic Designer
1
Answer
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Karina’s Answer
Photography combines art and technology and can be overwhelming when first starting out, but the desire to learn is the first step!
First thing first, find a camera.
There’s a quote: “It’s not the camera, but who’s behind it”. You don’t need a “fancy” camera to get started either, any will do. If you have a camera on your phone start with that, or if you can perhaps borrow a camera from your school or a friend. Or find one second hand.
But to get better at photography, you have to actually take photos! The hardest part is getting started.
Find some online videos to guide you:
Youtube, TikTok and Instagram have some really wonderful photographers who have some amazing tips that can apply from phone photography to high budget equipment. The concepts should be the same and following some tutorials would be a great way to try new skills daily.
Find what you like to shoot:
Discover what you really enjoy photographing! Once you find what you are passionate about photographing, you can continue to push the boundaries and try new skills. The more you shoot, the more you can look back at older photos and compare to new photos and see how much you have improved as well. You can also see yourself developing a style.
Volunteer your skills:
I started to really improve my photography skills when I started to volunteer my photography services for local charities and small gatherings. This will give you a chance to work “under pressure” and also try something new as well as meet new people and give something back as well. You can grow your network and meet new people and find paid opportunities this way as well.
Find a Mentor:
If you can find a local photography mentor who you can tag along with to shoots and work as their assistant or their “second”, that would provide amazing experience and knowledge that is invaluable. When I started assisting a wedding photographer, that is when I really learned so many new amazing skills. Be curious, ask questions and grow your connections. If you have the opportunity to tag along and help a professional photographer, take advantage and try to learn as much as you can.
Don’t compare yourself to others:
There will always be another photographer out there “better” than another. Try not to compare yourself to them and focus on yourself and being the best photographer you can be. Photography is art, and if you and your clients are happy, that is what matters. I try to incorporate one new thing I learn into each shoot, even if it’s something small, so that each shoot can be a learning opportunity.
Stay Connected:
Photography can bring a wonderful sense of community. Find your people who help you feel connected and help you continue to grow inside and out.
Best of luck to you!
First thing first, find a camera.
There’s a quote: “It’s not the camera, but who’s behind it”. You don’t need a “fancy” camera to get started either, any will do. If you have a camera on your phone start with that, or if you can perhaps borrow a camera from your school or a friend. Or find one second hand.
But to get better at photography, you have to actually take photos! The hardest part is getting started.
Find some online videos to guide you:
Youtube, TikTok and Instagram have some really wonderful photographers who have some amazing tips that can apply from phone photography to high budget equipment. The concepts should be the same and following some tutorials would be a great way to try new skills daily.
Find what you like to shoot:
Discover what you really enjoy photographing! Once you find what you are passionate about photographing, you can continue to push the boundaries and try new skills. The more you shoot, the more you can look back at older photos and compare to new photos and see how much you have improved as well. You can also see yourself developing a style.
Volunteer your skills:
I started to really improve my photography skills when I started to volunteer my photography services for local charities and small gatherings. This will give you a chance to work “under pressure” and also try something new as well as meet new people and give something back as well. You can grow your network and meet new people and find paid opportunities this way as well.
Find a Mentor:
If you can find a local photography mentor who you can tag along with to shoots and work as their assistant or their “second”, that would provide amazing experience and knowledge that is invaluable. When I started assisting a wedding photographer, that is when I really learned so many new amazing skills. Be curious, ask questions and grow your connections. If you have the opportunity to tag along and help a professional photographer, take advantage and try to learn as much as you can.
Don’t compare yourself to others:
There will always be another photographer out there “better” than another. Try not to compare yourself to them and focus on yourself and being the best photographer you can be. Photography is art, and if you and your clients are happy, that is what matters. I try to incorporate one new thing I learn into each shoot, even if it’s something small, so that each shoot can be a learning opportunity.
Stay Connected:
Photography can bring a wonderful sense of community. Find your people who help you feel connected and help you continue to grow inside and out.
Best of luck to you!
Duane Muhammad
Producer/Director
1
Answer
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Duane’s Answer
The very first step is to learn how a digital camera works. Study established photographers on how they got started. Step out and point and shoot while studying. The more knowledge you attain with practice the better you’ll get.
Dan J. Tolliver
IT Operation Manager
1
Answer
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Updated
Dan J.’s Answer
Getting good at photography is a journey that combines technical knowledge, creative vision, and lots of practice.