By Daniel S.
1.
Wait,
visualise, compose… shoot.
Do you remember the first time you shot
photos with a digital camera? There was no film to burn so you could snap like
crazy. One way to improve your photography is to stop and think; unless (of
course) you are shooting action. Have a look at your subject, think about the
result you are after, visualise the image and take the time to compose the shot.
Treat the shoot like you only have one roll of film, with 36 precious images.
2.
Change
Up the Flash
Traditionally a flash unit will sit on top
of the camera pointing directly at the subject. This is often not the most
interesting light and for ‘people photography’ is not very flattering. The
light is often harsh and causes shadows. We sell a range of flash accessories that will enhance your flash photography. Firstly, diffusers are
good to stop harsh shadows and to generally soften the light. Secondly, an
accessory to get the flash unit off camera is a great way to change the mood of
the photograph, allowing for more dynamic images. Have a look at our post on flash accessories for a little
more information.
3.
Learn
About Your Camera
When was the last time you sat down with
your camera manual and had a good read? It is good practice to learn about your
camera; the settings, the features and the limitations. Learning about what
your camera can do will help you when you are out in the field taking
photographs.
Keep the manual in your bag and revisit it
as you need it. Are you already completely familiar with your camera? Modern
cameras are filled with hundreds of options; have a browse through the manual
anyway, you are bound to find a setting that you did not know about or had
forgotten how to use.
4.
Get
Inspired
Go to the library, read a photography or
art book, peruse the Internet, go to an exhibition – there is some amazing work
out there waiting to be discovered. Have a look at what other photographers
have done or are doing. How does it relate to your work? You do not want to
copy someone’s work directly but everyone needs inspiration and much great art
builds on existing ideas.
As a sidenote, beware of the pull of the
Internet – don’t spend your precious shooting time behind your computer. This
leads to our next point…..
5.
Get
Out There and SHOOT SOME PHOTOGRAPHS!
Having ideas for photographs is essential
and doing test shoots can be a good way to learn how to use the equipment. But
the best way to improve your photography is to get out there and shoot! Want to
be a documentary style street shooter? Get out there and shoot some street
images. Want to be a fashion photographer? Get a friend with a good sense of
style and organise a shoot.
Some of the best learning is done when trying
to solve a problem, like finding a solution for a specific lighting situation.
We would not recommend photographing a wedding with no experience but shooting
some practice portraits of friends is a great start. Every high profile
photographer started somewhere, quite often with a cheap camera and an idea.
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