5 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started

If I could tell my younger self just five things about photography when first starting out, these would be it.

They are in no particular order in terms of importance, so you can use them in any order you want.

Number one is education. This could be classes, either in person or online. It could be reading or listening to podcasts. Watching videos and taking part in photo workshops are all part of education.

I put it off at first, thinking I knew everything I needed to know already. Big mistake. Photography is always about learning, be it new gear, editing processes, or just presenting your work.

So, educate yourself in whatever way works for you. Take classes, read, attend workshops.

Filters are the next thing on my list. I knew of them but nothing about them. I thought they were just something the pros used. When I finally decided to get some, I did no research as to what kind or type to buy. I had read that a filter will help your photography and keep your lens safe. So, I bought a cheap UV (ultraviolet) filter that saw little action because I was not versed in its use. I have since gone through several types and brands of filters. I now have a kit of ND (neutral density) filters. They help with creating better looking skies, and to get long exposures. My next filter will be a polarizer, to reduce glare off water and other shiny subjects. These should be in your kit as soon as you can afford them.

Shooting in Manual. I started shooting in Auto mode once I started using DSLRs. Most people do. It is easy, just like using a point and shoot camera. The photographs turn out okay for the most part, but the camera makes the choices you should be making. How will the camera know when to under- (or over-) expose a shot, or focus on a certain point in the scene, unless you tell it to. That is what Manual mode is for. It allows you to be the creative photographer you want to be. Put your camera in Manual and start experimenting. If you need help, consult your owner’s manual, or go online and look up how to operate the camera in Manual.

Shooting in RAW. I shot in JPEG for years because it worked for me. The photos were fairly good out of the camera. I didn’t have any fancy editing software, so JPEG it was. Once I learned I can make changes to my photos using software, I began shooting in RAW. I like to be able to change the mood, among other things, of a photo before I print it. In fact, there is so much you can do with a RAW file that the possibilities are almost endless.

Using a tripod. I started out with the same tripod I bought when I had a 35mm camera back in the dark ages. It worked then as the camera was much lighter, and I didn’t take it out anywhere. With the heavier DSLR, I needed something better, especially if it was to be used regularly. To be honest, I went years without using a tripod, because I thought that was the way things were done. Once I realized I’d be shooting with slower shutter speeds at times, I got a tripod. It lasted awhile, but I just upgraded to a slightly more robust one.

Tripods come in a variety of sizes, depending on your use. Most are either aluminum or carbon fiber. Both are good, so it depends on personal tastes and usage as to the material you choose. I opted for carbon fiber because I like the look and feel of it.

Now for an extra tip. Only buy lenses you know you will use. I have six lenses. I could get by with just four of them. Buy what you need, nothing more. Consider used lenses to save money. Also, rent a lens before buying it to make sure you really like how it performs. It could save you money in the long run.

If these things helped you out, consider passing them on to other photographers who may just be starting out in this wonderful world of photography.