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I am interested in video editing and Photography. Where is the best place to start exploring?
I am very interested in becoming a photographer.
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James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Louis,
Best Place to Start Exploring Photography and Video Editing
If you are interested in exploring photography and video editing, there are several avenues you can take to start your journey in these creative fields. Here are some steps you can follow to begin your exploration:
1. Online Courses and Tutorials: One of the best places to start learning about photography and video editing is through online courses and tutorials. Websites like Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare offer a wide range of courses on photography techniques, video editing software, and creative storytelling. These platforms provide structured learning paths that cater to beginners as well as more advanced learners.
2. Community College or Continuing Education Classes: Consider enrolling in a community college or continuing education program that offers courses in photography and video editing. These classes often provide hands-on experience with equipment and software, as well as valuable feedback from instructors who are experienced professionals in the field.
3. Join Photography and Videography Clubs: Another great way to explore photography and video editing is by joining local photography or videography clubs. These clubs often organize workshops, photo walks, and networking events where you can learn from other enthusiasts, share your work, and gain inspiration from different perspectives.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice: The key to mastering any skill is practice. Take your camera out regularly, experiment with different settings, lighting conditions, and compositions. Similarly, spend time editing videos using software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro to hone your editing skills.
5. Attend Workshops and Conferences: Attending workshops and conferences dedicated to photography and videography can provide valuable insights from industry professionals. These events often feature keynote speakers, hands-on sessions, portfolio reviews, and networking opportunities that can help you grow as a photographer or video editor.
6. Create a Portfolio: As you gain experience in photography and video editing, start building a portfolio of your best work. A strong portfolio showcases your skills and style to potential clients or employers and serves as a testament to your growth as a visual artist.
By following these steps and immersing yourself in the world of photography and video editing through learning opportunities, practice, community engagement, and professional development activities, you can kickstart your journey towards becoming a skilled photographer or video editor.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Adobe Creative Cloud Blog: The Adobe Creative Cloud Blog provides valuable insights into the latest trends in photography and videography, tips for using Adobe software like Photoshop and Premiere Pro effectively, as well as inspirational stories from creatives around the world.
Photography Life: Photography Life is a reputable online resource for photographers of all levels. It offers tutorials on camera settings, composition techniques, post-processing tips, gear reviews, industry news updates, and more.
B&H Explora: B&H Explora is an educational platform by B&H Photo Video that covers a wide range of topics related to photography and videography. It features articles on gear recommendations, shooting techniques, industry trends, product reviews, interviews with professionals in the field, and much more.
God Bless You,
JC.
Best Place to Start Exploring Photography and Video Editing
If you are interested in exploring photography and video editing, there are several avenues you can take to start your journey in these creative fields. Here are some steps you can follow to begin your exploration:
1. Online Courses and Tutorials: One of the best places to start learning about photography and video editing is through online courses and tutorials. Websites like Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare offer a wide range of courses on photography techniques, video editing software, and creative storytelling. These platforms provide structured learning paths that cater to beginners as well as more advanced learners.
2. Community College or Continuing Education Classes: Consider enrolling in a community college or continuing education program that offers courses in photography and video editing. These classes often provide hands-on experience with equipment and software, as well as valuable feedback from instructors who are experienced professionals in the field.
3. Join Photography and Videography Clubs: Another great way to explore photography and video editing is by joining local photography or videography clubs. These clubs often organize workshops, photo walks, and networking events where you can learn from other enthusiasts, share your work, and gain inspiration from different perspectives.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice: The key to mastering any skill is practice. Take your camera out regularly, experiment with different settings, lighting conditions, and compositions. Similarly, spend time editing videos using software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro to hone your editing skills.
5. Attend Workshops and Conferences: Attending workshops and conferences dedicated to photography and videography can provide valuable insights from industry professionals. These events often feature keynote speakers, hands-on sessions, portfolio reviews, and networking opportunities that can help you grow as a photographer or video editor.
6. Create a Portfolio: As you gain experience in photography and video editing, start building a portfolio of your best work. A strong portfolio showcases your skills and style to potential clients or employers and serves as a testament to your growth as a visual artist.
By following these steps and immersing yourself in the world of photography and video editing through learning opportunities, practice, community engagement, and professional development activities, you can kickstart your journey towards becoming a skilled photographer or video editor.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Adobe Creative Cloud Blog: The Adobe Creative Cloud Blog provides valuable insights into the latest trends in photography and videography, tips for using Adobe software like Photoshop and Premiere Pro effectively, as well as inspirational stories from creatives around the world.
Photography Life: Photography Life is a reputable online resource for photographers of all levels. It offers tutorials on camera settings, composition techniques, post-processing tips, gear reviews, industry news updates, and more.
B&H Explora: B&H Explora is an educational platform by B&H Photo Video that covers a wide range of topics related to photography and videography. It features articles on gear recommendations, shooting techniques, industry trends, product reviews, interviews with professionals in the field, and much more.
God Bless You,
JC.
Updated
David’s Answer
Hey Louis,
Since you're a student, I would suggest your school library as a good start. I see you live in the city. The city library on 42nd Street would be an incredible resource. I'm not fond of the internet, but it is an option. These resources will give you an idea of what good photographs look like and what genres of photography you can explore.
I am a believer in a college education. You do not need a degree to be a photographer, but it will allow you to have new experiences and expose you to new ideas. And, it can allow you to make a living as you establish your photo business.
A career in the arts is difficult, but if you have the passion, it is worth the work.
Best of luck.
Since you're a student, I would suggest your school library as a good start. I see you live in the city. The city library on 42nd Street would be an incredible resource. I'm not fond of the internet, but it is an option. These resources will give you an idea of what good photographs look like and what genres of photography you can explore.
I am a believer in a college education. You do not need a degree to be a photographer, but it will allow you to have new experiences and expose you to new ideas. And, it can allow you to make a living as you establish your photo business.
A career in the arts is difficult, but if you have the passion, it is worth the work.
Best of luck.
Steve Jacobson
Creative Leader/Content Creator/Producer/Editor/Storyteller
51
Answers
Updated
Steve’s Answer
You've got a wealth of fantastic advice at your fingertips here...
My own journey began at a prestigious film school at the University of Southern California. I immersed myself in a range of roles, from cameraman and director of photography to director, producer, and editor, among others. I was fortunate to gain invaluable insights from seasoned professionals in the field.
My career has taken me down many fascinating avenues, but I must admit, I have a particular attraction for producing and editing.
Here's a nugget of wisdom for you: start by crafting a short story that can be transformed into a short film. Make it feasible - avoid scenarios that require a cast of hundreds in elaborate costumes. Instead, write about what YOU are familiar with and how you can stir your audience's emotions - whether it's laughter, tears, chills, or any other reaction that touches the human spirit. Turn that story into a video, even if it's just shot on your phone. Find an editing platform that suits you - iMovie is a good starting point. Share your video on YouTube or a similar platform and welcome the feedback. Embrace your mistakes and frustrations, because they will be plentiful...
Wishing you all the best on your journey.
My own journey began at a prestigious film school at the University of Southern California. I immersed myself in a range of roles, from cameraman and director of photography to director, producer, and editor, among others. I was fortunate to gain invaluable insights from seasoned professionals in the field.
My career has taken me down many fascinating avenues, but I must admit, I have a particular attraction for producing and editing.
Here's a nugget of wisdom for you: start by crafting a short story that can be transformed into a short film. Make it feasible - avoid scenarios that require a cast of hundreds in elaborate costumes. Instead, write about what YOU are familiar with and how you can stir your audience's emotions - whether it's laughter, tears, chills, or any other reaction that touches the human spirit. Turn that story into a video, even if it's just shot on your phone. Find an editing platform that suits you - iMovie is a good starting point. Share your video on YouTube or a similar platform and welcome the feedback. Embrace your mistakes and frustrations, because they will be plentiful...
Wishing you all the best on your journey.
Updated
Steve’s Answer
There's a vast array of free software applications at your disposal, ready to kickstart your venture into video editing. Grab your mobile device, capture some footage, and dive into the exciting world of editing! You'll find a wealth of free tutorials on YouTube to support and guide you every step of the way. Embrace the journey with an open mind! While it's true that many aspire to break into the entertainment industry, don't forget that video skills can open doors in a multitude of other sectors. I've carved out a successful career directing videos within a corporate setting. Stay open to all possibilities!
Download video editing software
Watch a movie or TV show, maybe with the sound off. Pay attention to the way video shots are composed and how the camera cuts between scenes.
Steve recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Start out taking photos of what you love, whether it's portrait, outdoors, or architecture, make sure it suits your nitch and take as many photos as you can. Depending on the camera you have, they are all similar as far as ergonomics. The difference is where the buttons are, the size and model, and which one you feel comfortable using. All cameras have a manual to go with them, so this will help you learn all the different tools at your disposal. If you don't have a camera, start out using your phone. Your phone can take great photos as well before you spend money on a camera, and there are many apps to choose from to edit. The two apps that many professionals use are Lightroom and PS Express. You can crop, color correct, and adjust your exposure... all on your phone. Keep a collection of all your photos and look back at where you started after practicing for a while and you'll see improvement over time. I've been doing photography now since about 2008 and still enjoy every minute of it. Some sites also have competitions you can join and get feedback. Another idea is to go to the library and check out photography books or sign up for a workshop. There is a ton of information on it, so don't be afraid to try different subjects or styles. Just remember that photography is fiercely competitive in the digital era, so practice, practice, practice and ask for critique. Facebook has many groups you can join where people are eager to share and learn.
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Hi there!
I am a wedding photographer and do video editing and production as a part of my day job, following a stint in broadcast journalism as both on air and photography (behind the video camera) talent and the most important thing you can do is get practice! Get out your camera and look into the thousands of videos on youtube on how to use it! There are so so many free resources out there to get you started.
There are plenty of opportunities in smaller, local news stations for you to learn the ropes on video/photography from local news professionals. Those jobs tend to be entry level (so you don't need a lot of experience to get them) and will often take college students on as employees! This is a great way to learn the fundamentals and get a lot of practice in, while getting a paycheck!
If you're thinking of becoming a photographer on your own, shooting weddings, portraits, brand photos, etc. the best advice is to create a portfolio and really get yourself out there! Take unpaid work to hone your skills. Create a social presence and website to help your business grow. Ask to shadow or second shoot with photographers in your area you admire.
And most of all, get your camera out every day and work on your skills. Play with different lighting scenarios and locations. Turn your camera on manual mode and really learn your settings. Photography is such a fun, creative field and the more you hone in on who you are as a creative, the better time you'll have making it a career!
I am a wedding photographer and do video editing and production as a part of my day job, following a stint in broadcast journalism as both on air and photography (behind the video camera) talent and the most important thing you can do is get practice! Get out your camera and look into the thousands of videos on youtube on how to use it! There are so so many free resources out there to get you started.
There are plenty of opportunities in smaller, local news stations for you to learn the ropes on video/photography from local news professionals. Those jobs tend to be entry level (so you don't need a lot of experience to get them) and will often take college students on as employees! This is a great way to learn the fundamentals and get a lot of practice in, while getting a paycheck!
If you're thinking of becoming a photographer on your own, shooting weddings, portraits, brand photos, etc. the best advice is to create a portfolio and really get yourself out there! Take unpaid work to hone your skills. Create a social presence and website to help your business grow. Ask to shadow or second shoot with photographers in your area you admire.
And most of all, get your camera out every day and work on your skills. Play with different lighting scenarios and locations. Turn your camera on manual mode and really learn your settings. Photography is such a fun, creative field and the more you hone in on who you are as a creative, the better time you'll have making it a career!
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hi there, Louis!
I'm curious if you're also interested in cinematography/videography. If so, I believe knowledge of photography can benefit you. They're all interconnected.
For all of this, you're probably going to learn the most by "doing". Pick up a camera and go, even if it's just your phone camera! :) For editing, download DaVinci Resolve (they have a free version) and use whatever video editing app is provided on your phone.
In the meantime, find those other works that inspire you. And read books/articles and watch tutorials. Immerse yourself in everything available to you on the subject(s). Reading and watching videos about the stuff you love is fun!
In the end, you're a storyteller and artist and craftsperson. You're not working on becoming that, you already are that! Work on the type of work that makes you happy, because that's going to be your best work. I promise you that you are going to discover the type of storyteller/artist/craftsperson you are by leading with your heart.
I'm curious if you're also interested in cinematography/videography. If so, I believe knowledge of photography can benefit you. They're all interconnected.
For all of this, you're probably going to learn the most by "doing". Pick up a camera and go, even if it's just your phone camera! :) For editing, download DaVinci Resolve (they have a free version) and use whatever video editing app is provided on your phone.
In the meantime, find those other works that inspire you. And read books/articles and watch tutorials. Immerse yourself in everything available to you on the subject(s). Reading and watching videos about the stuff you love is fun!
In the end, you're a storyteller and artist and craftsperson. You're not working on becoming that, you already are that! Work on the type of work that makes you happy, because that's going to be your best work. I promise you that you are going to discover the type of storyteller/artist/craftsperson you are by leading with your heart.
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
The responses here are fantastic, and David J's advice is particularly noteworthy. Begin by capturing images and videos with your smartphone. I always search for photos that narrate a tale. Street photography is my preferred genre. My over 50-year career as a cinematographer might have sharpened my knack for shooting motion pictures that propel the narrative forward, especially when paired with a skilled editor. Being in NYC, you're surrounded by a wealth of material for storytelling. Simply stroll down any street and watch the world unfold.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Louis !
A career in the visual arts, both photography and video editing will provide you with much satisfaction. Both still and moving pictures will provide you with the chance to be creative, imaginative and resourceful. It's a fascinating venture.
You should begin by obtaining a focused, organized study even though these subjects can be self-taught, you will need to be around like-minded people and network and get the necessary support and opportunities, Some schools that you can consider for your specific study are : Manhattan Edit Workshop at 119 West 23rd Street, Edit Center at 150 West 22nd Street, The Freeman Studio located at 1123 Broadway, JCCA at 120 Wall Street, Noble Desktop at 185 Madison Avenue and DCTV located at 198 Greenpoint Avenue in Brooklyn. Visit the schools and see which one you like the best. You will be able to learn video editing from professionals that can be of great benefit to you for your career.
Invest in some equipment. Purchase two cameras, preferably one specifically for still pictures and one video camera separately. Learn them inside and out. Get tripods and lighting. Keep in mind that the more versatile you are with the photography, the more work you will obtain, so learn all there is to learn. As with many careers, photography and video editing are such that one will never stop learning as there are always new things to discover and your skills will expand as time goes on.
There are so many organizations and clubs for photography in your city. Some that you can consider interacting with are the International Center of Photography at 79 Essex Street, Sarah Merians Photography and Video company (website link is below), and Corporate Photography and Video at the link I've provided below. Sierra Photo NYC has a list of clubs you can join to get an optimum networking experience and add to your versatile skills. I have left a link below for you of the list which includes the Park West Camera Club.
There are also websites that can be helpful with seeking projects to work on with links below. Create both an online and hard copy portfolio of all your photography and an online portfolio of any video that you've edited so that you can show prospective companies and customers your work.
With specific education and lots of practice every day, your creativity will expand and put you well on your way to your career. I hope this was helpful and wish you all the best moving forward !
SARAH MERIANS PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO COMPANY https://sarahmerians.com/ CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO https://corporatephotovideo.com/
LIST OF CLUBS https://sierraphotonyc.com/photography_groups_organizations/
FIND PHOTOGRAPHY WORK https://phlearn.com/magazine/places-to-find-freelance-photography-jobs-online/
FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPY JOBS https://zenfolio.com/blog/find-freelance-photography-jobs/
A career in the visual arts, both photography and video editing will provide you with much satisfaction. Both still and moving pictures will provide you with the chance to be creative, imaginative and resourceful. It's a fascinating venture.
You should begin by obtaining a focused, organized study even though these subjects can be self-taught, you will need to be around like-minded people and network and get the necessary support and opportunities, Some schools that you can consider for your specific study are : Manhattan Edit Workshop at 119 West 23rd Street, Edit Center at 150 West 22nd Street, The Freeman Studio located at 1123 Broadway, JCCA at 120 Wall Street, Noble Desktop at 185 Madison Avenue and DCTV located at 198 Greenpoint Avenue in Brooklyn. Visit the schools and see which one you like the best. You will be able to learn video editing from professionals that can be of great benefit to you for your career.
Invest in some equipment. Purchase two cameras, preferably one specifically for still pictures and one video camera separately. Learn them inside and out. Get tripods and lighting. Keep in mind that the more versatile you are with the photography, the more work you will obtain, so learn all there is to learn. As with many careers, photography and video editing are such that one will never stop learning as there are always new things to discover and your skills will expand as time goes on.
There are so many organizations and clubs for photography in your city. Some that you can consider interacting with are the International Center of Photography at 79 Essex Street, Sarah Merians Photography and Video company (website link is below), and Corporate Photography and Video at the link I've provided below. Sierra Photo NYC has a list of clubs you can join to get an optimum networking experience and add to your versatile skills. I have left a link below for you of the list which includes the Park West Camera Club.
There are also websites that can be helpful with seeking projects to work on with links below. Create both an online and hard copy portfolio of all your photography and an online portfolio of any video that you've edited so that you can show prospective companies and customers your work.
With specific education and lots of practice every day, your creativity will expand and put you well on your way to your career. I hope this was helpful and wish you all the best moving forward !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Updated
David’s Answer
It's a great and often asked question. Where is the best place to start exploring.
I often tell students that it begins with a Point of View. Start with what interests you in the world around you and develop what you want to photograph, film (and edit) into a story that reflects who you are as a photographer and filmmaker.
Most aspiring photographers and filmmakers think that starting with software or hardware (cameras, etc.) makes you into that role. I disagree. Everyone has a smartphone (or has access to one), it's more a matter of what you see through that lens that's important. The images you take and the ability to edit those images/footage together is where you start exploring.
If you are on social media, find photographers you like and take a look at their Points of View. Not influencers, but legitimate photo-story tellers. Look at movies/tv/commercials for editing styles. Then begin to emulate, recreate, try your own way of editing.
The best place to start (believe it or not) is to start. If you have access to a camera, take some photos and be bold and daring in your compositions.
If you are looking for Hardware and Software resources, there are too many to count on the Internet and many really good resources for free or low cost.
Study the masters (Ansel Adams, Annie Liebowitz) as well as modern photographers and consider their unique POV.
Practice and practice and practice - Especially in the digital age, there are no mistakes, only future successes in your work.
I often tell students that it begins with a Point of View. Start with what interests you in the world around you and develop what you want to photograph, film (and edit) into a story that reflects who you are as a photographer and filmmaker.
Most aspiring photographers and filmmakers think that starting with software or hardware (cameras, etc.) makes you into that role. I disagree. Everyone has a smartphone (or has access to one), it's more a matter of what you see through that lens that's important. The images you take and the ability to edit those images/footage together is where you start exploring.
If you are on social media, find photographers you like and take a look at their Points of View. Not influencers, but legitimate photo-story tellers. Look at movies/tv/commercials for editing styles. Then begin to emulate, recreate, try your own way of editing.
The best place to start (believe it or not) is to start. If you have access to a camera, take some photos and be bold and daring in your compositions.
David recommends the following next steps: